Has anyone struggled with depression while having a new dog?

[luvofallhorses]

I would also suggest a behaviorist or tell the potential adopters that he will need patience and time and training. Also, NILIF (http://k9deb.com/nilif.htm) It has worked wonders for many.
and have you had him checked out by a vet to see if there's anything medically wrong with him??

[ashleycat]

He's healthy. I've been doing nilf. But it's hard keeping him on leash 100%of time.

Diff breed? maybe. I think I will wait on dogs till I'm done with kids and they are older.

I've done books, dvd's. Went to Mans Best Friend but they wanted $1000 that I don't have in pocket.

He does need behaviorist.

I can get him to do basics. sit, down, stay, lay down, roll over, paw touch. Most of the time he won't do them unless I have a treat. Getting petted and toys don't really do much as far as rewards.

I have always let people walk over me. So I guess he can sense that and think he can too. What ya think?

[BitsyNaceyDog]

I suffer from anxiety attacks and often go through bouts of depression. My pets are what help me through all of it. They do often frustrate me but more often than that they help me. I think that it depends on what triggers your depression. I don't like to be around people, I don't like restaurants or stores. I also don't like to be alone. My animals help me to keep busy and feel needed without having to leave the house too often. They also help me outside of the house. I've never been able to take a walk by myself, but I can with a dog.

When dealing with postpartum depression I would think that adding a dog to the family would make things worse because it's like having two children instead of one.