| While I agree with everyone that you're not living up to your responsibilities as an owner, I don't think that dumping the problem on someone else is the only solution. You really need to seriously consider a few things.
One, this particular breed of dog (I'm assuming he's a rottie) can be very challenging, especially to a novice (I can attest). They have been bred as a working dog, and have certain traits and drives that are much stronger than your average Labrador or Shi Tzu. Often times, these drives cause behavior that conflict with what we as humans deem acceptable behavior. They require extensive training, socialization, and constant work to keep them happy, healthy, and safe. This isn't optional with this breed, it's a must. If you honestly can't afford classes, don't have the time, are physically incapable of controlling and working with a 100+ pound dog, then you SHOULD seriously consider finding another home for him.
Two, these animals are VERY social. They have hundreds of thousands of generations of instictual behavior designed to allow them to live and function in packs, when you bring one into your home you become it's pack. Secluding him outside for a majority if the time is absolutely going to cause all sorts of problems. I firmly believe dogs should live indoors with us and have ready access to a secure fenced backyard where they can get lots of exercise. We have two dogs, a rottweiler and a smaller female GSD mix. They both live in our 2 bedroom apartment with us and make frequent trips outside to a nearby common yard where they can get some exercise and practice training. We also make frequent trips to pet stores and parks where they can encounter and interact with lots of people and other animals. Everyone comments on how friendly Jaxom is. We've crate trained them, so at night and when we go out, they're in the crate. If we can't supervise them, they're in the crate. I am allergic to pet dander, it sets off occasional bouts of asthma, but I take allergy medicine and don't allow the dogs on the furniture or in our bed. So basically, we have 2 or 3 very good (and common) reasons for not keeping the dogs inside, but we do. If WE can happily live with our dogs inside, I can't see any excuse for anyone else not being able to.
Three, no one is born with an inherent knowledge of how to raise a dog. Don't feel bad if you make mistakes, you'll make a lot of them. That you're here asking questions is a great indication that you are interested in learning how to be a better owner (which is why I don't immediatly jump on the bad wagon of 'bad owner, give your dog up now') Now it's time to find a trainer, start reading books, go to other online sources for information and start learning as much about the breed and dogs in general as you can. Personally, I find it fascinating. As dogs grow, their behavior changes for many reasons. You'll find that you've got one thing covered and something new and unexpected crops up. It's a constant, life-long learning process for them and you.
At 5 1/2 months, you still have lots of time to correct any behavioral problems, have lots of socialization opprotunities, and raise a well mannered, happy dog. You just have to be willing to invest the time and money that it's going to take. If you're not, then yes...you should find a better home for him.  |