Parenting related kind of question--dog and baby

So, I was afraid this day would come....my dog, who I have had for 6 years, snapped at my son. My DH and I had talked about this happening and what we would do if it ever did. We had decided if it did happen, we would have to find Bob (our dog) a new home. He's a Jack Russell Terrier, awesome pet, I love him. It breaks my heart, but my son comes first. He almost bit him in the face. The thing is, Matteo wasn't doing anything to antagonize him, not pulling at him or anything.

Has anyone else dealt with this in their house with their pets and children? I was thinking of posting on the pets board, but I am not sure the reaction I would get...I know people are passionate about their pets and I understand.

If you'd like to FM me too if you don't want to post...thank you!

Re: Parenting related kind of question--dog and baby

I totally understand your fear. I have 2 dogs myself.

Have you tried training? A friend of mine sent her dog to training after he bit her son who was 18 months at the time. They were teaching the dog how to interact with children but also teach the baby how to interact with dogs. Just a thought!

Re: Parenting related kind of question--dog and baby

OMG - Bob snapped at Matteo!!!! Oh no!!!!

In my experience they are great dogs but can get a bit snippy with kids. Bob was around for a few years before my precious lil' man Matteo was born so its probably a lot for the dog to take in. Add the screaming and crying that he's been doing its affecting the dog - their ears are VERY sensitive. Plus Matteo did nothing to provoke him so that scares me a little.

I don't know what I would do if Cosmo did it - I would be tempted to keep him and get rid of the kids

In all seriousness I would have to let him go - you never know the next time Bob could snap and next time it could be bad.

My heart breaks - I love Bob. BUT I love my Matteo more

Re: Parenting related kind of question--dog and baby

I was also going to suggest getting a trainer.

I understand where you are coming from, but I would see what I could do first before getting rid of the dog.

Not for nothing, not many people will want a dog knowing they could snap at children, this is why I suggest getting a trainer.

I know someone that had gotten a trainer for an older dog, and now the dog is great. I can see if I can get this persons number for you.

Re: Parenting related kind of question--dog and baby

We had him trained. He really is good with kids, or I should say was, this was not like him. We did all the things suggested for when you bring home a baby after already having a dog, reassuring him. He is so good, but he has had it it seems with the baby. We were even saying "good boy, bob" and petting him when he snapped at Matteo. My husband grabbed Matteo by the arm and Bob jumped off the couch after him. I just can't risk it. I feel like we've done all the right things and it still happened.

I just am so upset. I've had him since he was a tiny puppy and he is such a good pet. Apparently he'd be good for someone without children though.

Re: Parenting related kind of question--dog and baby

I have a mini schnauzer, who, like jack russels can be very snappy.

I am PG now, no baby yet, but honestly, DH and I discussed if this ever happen to just not let the dog near the baby. Lock him up saperately, keep him in a dog crate or something if not able to watch... but I don't know if we'd give him away. Cosmo - the schnauzer- has been with us 6 years we love him dearly and I think we would just make sure they were saperated.