Ddog is 2. She's had issues for a while, some health (allergies that cause recurrent ear infection, anal gland issues, itching etc) and behavioural (over excited jumping and biting. I've asked advice on dog before and taken it. I'll outline the issues, but please understand that this feels like an impossible decision.
Health issues first. She is under a dermatologist vet and on a special diet. She was on steroids to control symptoms which I've slowly reduced. Unfortunately she is a food obsessive so our exclusion diet has had mixed results. We keep her away from food, but I do have two children who occasionally slip up. She's also got hold of a dead bird in the garden (boak) and some stuff on walks. She will not walk with a muzzle, she's been muzzle trained. She'll put it on, but refuse to walk. She weighs 30kg, can't be dragged and no amount of treats (limited due to allergies will make her move). Twice at doggy day care she has stolen food too.
Behaviour. She goes zoomie like and jumps and bites. Both on lead and off. Although easier to get her somewhat under control on lead (she still bites my hand though until calm. I have sought help with this behaviour through a fully qualified (degree, MA) recommended on here. We were making some good progress.
But then, my marriage ended, ex-dh moved out and then I was very ill. This meant being in hospital for a week and unable to do much for a while. I'm still unable to do any form of exercise. I can walk her, but not far or fast. During this time she was on I looked after (at home never sent away) y my family, friends, ex, etc and lots of the training went out of the window. Now, I ajve obviously reinstated the methods I was using. She has now developed new issues in too of the biting. She now barks and lunges at some dogs (certain breeds/big dogs) and has now started at random people. These mainly seem to be men, older men and usually ones in their own (ie without a dog/partner) but not always. Always when she's on the lead, but sometimes out of the blue (someone comes round the corner or brushes past us at a park). So far she has bitten the clothing, but nothing more thanks god. I have started to move her away where I see someone coming, do reward stuff I've discussed with behaviourist.
When all of this isn't happening she's a lovely dog and she's calmed down loads from her puppy days. But recently I'm finding it harder and harder to feel in control. I contacted the behaviourist again this week after something happened. Her opinion was that she could offer some advice, but it was not unreasonable to consider rehoming her at this point. That she needs someone with the time and energy to work with her. Probably someone without kids. I work full time as well (at home, she isn't left.)
The breeder would take her back, I know that. And work with her and hopefully find a good home. Or there are rescues. I spent all night and this morning crying every time I thought about it. I love her, the kids love her. But I also can't help worrying about her biting someone when I'm distracted or not strong enough and her having to be put down.
I have to make a decision that is best for her and for all of us. And I just done know what that is. My family and friends seem to think rehoming might be right now.