Inlaws mean dog

[larbabe]

He IS losing his sight. He has cataracts on both eyes, and I believe he may be hard of hearing (the reason for his loud barking). But I've noticed this bad behavior for quite some time, even before they came to live with us. My wife feels like she is caught in the middle. She feels it's between her folks and I (it puts me in an uncomfortable situation) The dog has also snapped and growled at her (but hasn't bitten her yet)

[finn's mom]

She feels it's between her folks and I (it puts me in an uncomfortable situation)

It's putting everyone in an uncomfortable situation. Her parents should be willing to make adjustments, considering they're living in your home. There are plenty of grown children who wouldn't allow their parent's pets to be there at all. It shouldn't be between you and your in-laws OR your wife and her parents OR you and your wife. It's a situation involving everyone, no one needs to be pitted against eachother. I wish you the best of luck finding a viable solution.

[BOBS DAD]

Do You Have A Downstairs Apartment Of Some Living Arrangements Setup For Your Inlaws. If So, Ask Them To Keep Their Dog There And Not In Common Living Areas. I Don't Agree That Caging Dogs Or Tethering Them Really Makes Them Any More Aggressive Than They Are Already. I Would Ask Them To Keep Their Dog Under Their Watch And Supervision When You Others Who May Be In Peril Are Present.

[larbabe]

First I'm going to try a permenent drag leash when he is around just the immediate family. When the grand kids visit, I will insist he be kept in the in-laws' quarters. Thanks for the suggestion.

[Catty1]

It was mentioned that your in-laws' other bichon died recently. Was this dog badly behaved before that? Maybe the death triggered this.

Otherwise, he sounds like an overfed, overweight, undisciplined, unhealthy spoiled brat.

A vet checkup is definitely in order...offer to take them all there, so YOU can also hear what the vet says (helps in the 'selective hearing' department).

There are also things like Rescue Remedy - but don't know how that would fit in your case.

Good luck!

Catty1

[larbabe]

Way before the other dog's death. I remember him facing off against my sister-in-law five years ago in her home. The dog has recently been checked by a vet (of course, his behavior wasn't mentioned).

The situation escalated this morning. My wife has thus far refused to get involved, so I was forced to approach her parents. I did so in a non-accusatory manner, suggesting the drag leash. They became very defensive, basically accusing me of making a big deal out of nothing. They attributed the dog's behavior to old age. When I pointed out that he has been this way ever since I can remember, they claimed his snarling and biting is perfectly normal, even after showing them my finger (which is still bruised). The other evening, after I was bitten, my in-laws saw me apply an ice pack to my swollen finger, yet neither inquired about my injury. Meanwhile, my mother-in-law talked soothingly to the dog and stroked him. I know this sounds almost comical, but I'm at odds as to how to proceed.

[BOBS DAD]

Any Convalescence Homes Nearby???