We had to make a decision...

[LakeLover]

I wanted to let all those who so kindly responded to my frequent posts over the last two weeks that my husband and I made the difficult decision to return Zeus to the shelter where we found him two weeks ago. We were making a some progress with poor house manners such as jumping on counters, stealing food from plates, etc., but the bullying (jumping up at us while snapping and mouthing) just got worse. He was hard to read in that he was so DEAR when he was calm.

At any rate, the group classes we had scheduled for March 4 and the temperament evaluation and one-on-one training scheduled for Feb. 20 were just too far away for our comfort level. I will miss our many long walks and the time we spent together. He was *my* buddy and a special enough dog that we bonded very quickly. Our four kids finally understand, because they witnessed his behavior. We all did a lot of crying yesterday, including my husband -- and I've only seen him cry twice in the 18 years I've known him. As for me, I luckily ;) have my 6 year old home sick, today. Perfect timing, as I feel such a great loss.

One big factor affecting our decision to return him was the fact that while we were visiting Zeus before the adoption, another couple (I don't know if they had children) stopped by with their BIG Rottie to meet Zeus. They appeared to get along quite well, and the couple filled out an application. We were very surprised to find out the next day that our ours, instead, had been approved. The shelter explained that they wanted to place him in a home as similar as possible to his previous owners. I am almost certain, after speaking with the manager of the shelter that the Rottie couple will get a call. At least, I hope so, because they will most certainly be more experienced/prepared than we were.

I did give them copies of all my posts to this forum so any new owners know his strengths and weaknesses. I also made sure they knew that his reponse to high activity levels (kids in and out) exacerbated his wild behavior.

His lovable character changed a lot of minds around here about the "Rottweiler." And some day, when our kids are a bit older -- we just might take on the rewarding challenge of rearing a well-bred puppy of our own.

Thanks. Know that I will always be lurking, and keeping an eye open to appreciating all the joys and tribulations of owning this wonderful breed.

[TrishB]

Hi LakeLover,

I'm sure this had to be one of the most difficult decisions you've ever made. It's very sad that Zeus couldn't remain as a part of your family.

Please keep in touch with the shelter to see when he gets a home, I'm sure we'd all love to hear about it. Maybe you could 'sponsor' him in the shelter to ensure that he gets a home? Just a thought.

As for getting another dog - best of luck. Spend lots of time reseraching many breeders. Be sure you're happy with them and their dogs. Hips, elbows, heart cerfs... there are MANY threads in here that will help to guide you through the breeder selection process.

All the best, and I'm sorry for your loss.

[WorkinDogz]

LakeLover,

I wish you and your family nothing but the very, very best.

Your posts made it very clear that you wanted to help this dog become part of your family. You were very honest and very direct in your thinking and approach to a difficult situation that required probably a little more experience than you have. It takes an exceptional person to not only recognize this; but to put the dog and his well-being first. You did that and are to be congratulated.

I sincerely applaud you for your efforts and your heart. YOU are the type of owner that a Rottweiler NEEDS...... you just weren't the owner for THIS Rottweiler.

Hold your head high. You did an outstanding job and when you find "The" Rottweiler for you and your family..... that is going to be one VERY LUCKY dog.

[Soapie&Buddy'sMom]

I think it's great that you tried as hard as you did, and obviously care about this dog and dogs in general. You will make some dog a fine owner one day when the time is right for your both!!!

p.s. don't give up on shelter or rescue dogs, there are so many fabulous dogs out there!