Jealous of a dog

[Gogglepox]

My STBXH has just got a puppy for Christmas. What child does not love a puppy? He wants his house to be a "draw" and now I think he has it. Why am I jealous of a puppy?! I have a great relationship with my young DDs but I can't help feeling this way.

You may be less jealous of a puppy and more insecure about your place in your DCs' affections. How is your relationship with your children? Do you make time to have fun and enjoy each other's company or do you get bogged down with the day to day stuff?

I have a great relationship with my children and I'm the more involved, physical and active parent. I know I'm a good mum and we have lots of laughs. But irrationally I feel like I'm in competition with this little ball of fur.

I love dogs myself but I don't even want to see this puppy. My STBXH even asked if I could dog sit it sometimes (uh, no!).

I know I'm being irrational but being so newly separated I just felt this puppy is part of his ploy to make daddy's house more of a draw for the children.

Why don't you want your children to have a good relationship with their father?

Puppy at Christmas is such a totally crap idea! I hope it doesn't go the way of so many other Christmas puppies!

A puppy with Christmas chocolates lying around is not a good idea. Envy the little puppy (who could resist?) but don't forget about the chewing, poo-ing and vomiting.

As others have already said - the puppy will chew everything, will need house training and will need walks throughout whatever hideous weather the next few months bring. Your kids will quickly get over the excitement of a new puppy.

You will still be the one they come to for a hug or for advice. A puppy might be all cute and fluffy, but you're their mum.

Definitely hold fast on not dog sitting; this puppy is not your problem!