Dogs have ruined christmas

[QueenOfPharts]

I know there is no such thing as a bad dog(s) just bad owners so yes I am aware this is all my fault.
Here goes our lovely pile of Christmas presents under the tree has been destroyed and ruined by the dogs cant work out what was from who and will cost 100s to replace.
I have 2 chocolate Labrador dogs (mother and daughter) aged 7 and 2 and after a catalogue of awful stuff, running away, destruction, defication causing huge expense I no longer can cope. We have 2 young dc and me and my dh work full time. I try and take them on a decent walk everyday I dont always manage but its usually 40mins-hour each day. Its tricky in the winter so sometimes just take them 10mins round the block.
I dont know what im asking but any advice of sympathy would be very much appreciated.

I’m really sorry about the presents OP—that is heartbreaking but unfortunately, as you say, your own fault. It always amazes me the way that people will set their dogs up to fail. I’m sure it wasn’t intentional OP but it really wasn’t wise to leave presents under the tree with under-exercised dogs loose in the house. An hour of walking before you begin work would probably do wonders for your dogs. They would then be more relaxed while you are busy with other things. And then another hour when you are finished work will settle them for the evening.

If they are very hyper it would also be an idea to review their diet. Some dog foods are stuffed with junk and will make your dogs more riled up.

You could also consider giving them a job to do. If they don’t bicker then puzzle toys and kongs are a good option (no good for mine as they will argue between them when left with these things) or choose a training project to work on. Just a few mins several times a day—for example when you’re waiting for the kettle to boil or during a short break from your work will add interest to their day and is rewarding for them and you. Several short trips to the garden with them throughout the day will also break things up. Your dogs need more of your time and you can fit this in in creative ways. Currently what you’re providing is not good enough but there are plenty of ways to improve.

With two young DCs and two dogs no one will really get a lie in. One adult needs to be with the DCs and one walking the dogs every morning. It’s tough, I am doing the same but there is no other option.

Having said that, where is your DH in all this? You could alternate dog walking mornings, so at least you’d stay in the warm everyother day.

If you can afford a dog walker or doggy day care it’s an excellent idea and will give you a break. Also, very importantly, arm yourself with a clicker and loads of treats and get these dogs working. Look up clicker training videos online or ask about classes at your local dog training club. Training is not just for puppies, it can help adult dogs be mentally stimulated and can be added as and when needed around your day. Teach them behaviours, tricks, retrieving, etc.

It is a complete mystery to me why busy people with full time jobs would want one dog - and even more of a mystery why they would want two big dogs who need lots of exercise.

Nah sorry no sympathy from me

You have two large dogs who are bored shitless. Understimulated and under exercised. You are neglecting their needs. I don’t blame them and nor am I surprised they’ve chewed the presents and shat in your house

Either pull yourself together and be a decent pet owner or place them with a family who will

I finish my 12.5 hr night shift and walk my gsd for an hour off lead regardless of the weather. I then take her out for 30/45 mins when I wake up. She also gets play time and training time. She never shits in the house or chews things - why? Because she’s a happy dog

WTF were you thinking?

Poor dogs

I can definitely sympathise, I have been in a similar position myself. You always buy a dog/dogs with the best intentions but they are hard work! We have a 4 year old golden retriever/poodle mix and she is VERY clingy and needs a lot of exercise. When my DD was younger I struggled big time with our dog, she was jumpy, barked excessively, chewed everything and dug the garden up. I knew it was because she needed more attention but I felt trapped and so so guilty as I didn't have the time for her. All she needed was more exercise, she now gets 2 40 minute walks a day, rain, hail or shine and is inside with us more often than not. She is an absolute dream dog now. Ask for help if you need it, if they get enough exercise and attention they will be your best friends! If you can't commit to that then re home. I hope it all works out for you

Thank you so much for some much needed home truths and all those that have taken time to give helpful practical advice. I also enjoyed hearing from some of you delightfully bonkers dog owners that sing and chat away to your dogs...I do too
Amongst the unrealistic expectations(which would basically bar most people having a dog) and highly judgmental and frankly unhelpful comments. I have formulated a plan and me and dh are working on a better regime and looking to integrate the dogs even more into our lives and do more with them inbetween times, school pick up drop off etc. We will seriously look into a dog walker too if we cant make more time ourselves.
Thanks again for all your help and kind words. I hope all of you and your four legged friends have a lovely peaceful christmas

Well done OP. You've had a tough time (and yes, I include my posts in that!).

But if it's helped you to realise that stuff needs to change and there are things you can do to ensure the dogs are exercised and happy, then that's a good outcome.

Have a great Christmas - and next year I assume your presents will be 5' off the floor?!

Just seen your update. Good luck OP. Hopefully with more stimulation, both physical and mental, things will be much better.

Before revoking then then I'd suggest trying a dog walker first, it really will make such a difference.

It sounds like they're not exercised enough and a bit bored, tackle those problems and you should see improvement.

*The dogs didn't ruin Christmas.

You did.*

This

*Advice? Rehome them.

Sympathy? For you, none. For the dogs, plenty.*

Also this

It's good that you're looking at a dog walker. My dog is at daycare roughly 8 hours a day 5 days a week. It's not cheap but it's a necessity for us.

Good luck OP. Sometimes I think a structured plan is easier all round as everyone knows what they’re doing. I hope it all works out well and that you and the dogs have a happy life together.

Sorry but you have the pets that are suitable for your lifestyle. I'd love a dog but I work 10 hour days so I'm not getting one. I have a cat that is happy to sleep for 10 hours and takes herself for walks.

OP, the destruction of the presents is completely your fault. Labradors need walking for at least 2 hours each day. And do they have access to toys and a garden to run around in? You shouldn't have left a pile of presents that they could get to; two bored as hell dogs including one very young dog = recipe for disaster.

But it looks as if you understand you need to ramp up their exercise. Well done for acknowledging this. Please make changes in the way you look after them for their sake and yours.

Aww Op, that's shit. I have two Labs myself so know how they can be. 40 mins is not anywhere near enough though, unless they are elderly. They need a good 90 minutes to 2 hours hard exercise a day. Regardless of weather. They're working dogs and need mental stimulation too or they will just make their own fun. As you've probably noticed. Perhaps the best thing would be to rehome them? You sound like you have more than enough on your plate. 2 year old is still young enough and the 7 year old may be more manageable without the younger one being a bad influence. My eldest is 13 and still energetic but did start to calm down from about age 5 and i've noticed my younger one has started to chill out a little, he is 6 now. Chocolates are nutjobs anyway.

One other thing. If you have kids, get some training treats and get your kids to teach them tricks. Doesn't have to be fancy, even basic obedience. It might help engage them a bit and stop some of the destructiveness. If nothing else they might at least look a bit sheepish when you scream DROP IT! across the living room.

If it makes you feel better my chocolate lab ate the coffee table. I don't mean he chewed it up a bit. I mean he ATE it. Absolutely shredded it. It looked like it had lost a fight with a woodchipper. My older dog barked and grassed him up, I was only in the bloody shower. He had to go to the vet for a scan to make sure nothing had torn his stomach sinch he'd swallowed so much of it. He was 2 or 3 at the time I think. Older one went and lay on her bed and looked as smug as I've ever seen a dog look while I utterly lost my shit at him.

I shouted so loud that he actually ran out and got in the car himself with no silly fuckery. First and last time ever.

I have a friend who works full time and has active dogs (collies). He walks them for an hour before work has an hour paid dog walk during the day, then either another long walk, swimming or agility training in the evening. Weekends are all based around agility training and long walks (plus a trip to the pub ).

OP, I had another thought. Do you have Borrow My Doggy in your area? I'm (sadly) not a dog-owner at the moment because I live alone and work long hours so I get a lot of pleasure from taking other people's dogs for walks and playtimes. It's not as dependable as paying for a dog walker, but if you and your DH can make lifestyle changes that provide an acceptable level of walks and stimulation for your dogs then it might provide that bit extra which the dogs would like and would sometimes take the pressure off you. Just google Borrow my Doggy and you can see how it works and whether it's an option.

Happy Christmas!