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.

[BOBS DAD]

I am so sorry to hear of your struggles. I hope that counseling will help you. If it is any comfort, please be assured that most people struggle with some form of depression in their lifetime. Yours is common and counseling will definitely help - but don't expect immediate results. Open up to your counselor... talk about everything that bothers you, makes you sad. The worse - the better, and you'll begin to see a brighter future.

I know that many cat people can find dogs difficult to train initially and sometimes impossible. That is because cats and dogs are so different. Also dogs are sooo much more demanding of us! Cats are independant, clean and take to their litter boxes quickly. Dogs are almost "dumb" comparatively. But "happy dumb".

Maybe you can find someone, perhaps a relative, to foster your pup as you undergo treatment. They can help with the training (crate I recommend) and take off some of the load for you. A 2 year old at home is enough for now. That way you can still visit and take your time deciding if he needs to be rehomed.

Good luck in whatever you decide!!!

[ashleycat]

I still have him. He hasn't peed inside for a couple days. So I think something is working.

Also, in the morning when he hasn't eaten yet. I've been using those beggin strips for some training. He goes nuts for them and he is sooooooooo focused.

Like this morning. He is usually taking food away from my daughter. So I gave her the treat to give him.. And when he tried to take it from her I said AH AH. And he backed off. And then she gave it to him. And then after that he was holding off till she gave it to him.

Hopefully we can make it. I keep changing my mind lol. I don't know anyone that can foster him for now.

Since the rescue lady already put him on petfinder, can she edit it to say foster? I dunno. I hate when I can't make up my mind.