think i need to find a new home for newf...

[knie0012]

I currently have 2 newfs and live in Anchorage, AK. Oskar, the black one has always been a little neurotic (i.e. chewing tennis balls compulsively, pacing, just generally nervous) and a little aloof (isn't always right up in your face to be petted but likes to be in the same room as us) Carter, the brown one, is typical newf....loves to be right by your side, any attention is good attention, very laid back.

Enter baby. Had a baby about a year ago , knew the dogs would take some time to adjust but we got newfs knowing what a good reputation they have as family dogs. Carter is still a little hit and miss but is generally tolerant of the baby and likes the attention that the now toddler gives him. Oskar is just getting more and more neurotic. He paces more, he doesn't pay any attention to where the baby is, frequently knocks him over to try to get to his toys, any time the baby walks within a 5 foot radius he gives a little groan/growl and quickly runs away, then lays down somewhere 5 feet from where he was and inevitably has to get up and do it all over again every couple minutes.

Anyway, I think Oskar is miserable. He doesn't get to lay down and just relax, he's always on high alert. He does have his own space and can go to an entirely different floor to his bed and avoid the baby but he doesn't because he still likes to be in the same room as us.

I guess the point is, I think I have to find a new home for Oskar. Preferrably one with older kids or adults only. Does anyone know of any resources or rescues in Anchorage that might help me find a really good home for him.

 

[Elizabeth]

I would get a full medical work up done first...

E

 

[YorkvilleNewfie]

I can't help you, but I want to offer my sympathy. It's a heart-wrenching decision you're making, but I believe that it is the best decision. He is miserable and would in all likelihood be happier as a member of a different household, but most importantly, a toddler and a fearful, reactive giant breed dog is just a tragic accident waiting to happen. I say that as the mother of a 16 month old son and as a Newf owner. I'm very sorry...

 

[nsmarlis]

I know someone in Alaska who might be interested. They have one Newf. I'll send her an e-mail. She is not on NN.

 

[TerriW]

I am with Kristen. My sympathies and hopes that you find that perfect home for him. Continue to love him in the meantime.... he can't help it. :hugs:

 

[knie0012]

he's been to the vet recently for a general check up and to get updated shots and there was nothing suspicious that would lead the vet to do more testing on anything. He's in good health. He's really a good dog, smart, listens well for the most part. loves to swim and go for walks, does well at the dog park except for the occasional obsession over tennis balls that don't belong to him.

 

[2ndchance]

I feel for you as it is a hard decision no doubt. Newfs are lovers generally but sometimes as with any dog when they don't grow up around kids then it can be a bit unerving to them. I had two therapy dogs (Newfs) one grew up with children and one did not, the one with the children did very well, the one who did not grow up with them tolerated them because it was his job, but I could see some discomfort. I admire that you realize that all involved may not be happy with the situation and are looking for a good home, that's a hard thing to do. I wish you much luck.

 

[Jeannie]

Thread was removed for review per GAD's rules. Angela and I both thought it should stay even though it is borderline. We hope a home is found for this dog.

 

[nsmarlis]

Would the original poster please check their private messages & let me know if you got mine. Thanks.

 

[Capri]

My first thoughts
-have you seen a behaviourist with him?
-have you removed all toys that make him neurotic (ie. tennis balls that you keep mentioning)
-have you taught him how to relax (not all dogs know HOW)
-have you crate trained him at all?

 

[Ivoryudx]

Please contact me privately, if Marlis's person is not interested. SCNRescue based out of Indiana/Ohio has had a couple of very good applicants from Alaska wanting Newfoundlands that we have not been able to work with due to airline risks, etc. I would be more than happy to try and match them up with you, if no other option is available.

I would also ask if you discussed this behavior with your Vet so they knew what to look for, other than a typical annual exam. A thyroid test comes to mind as something I would explore.

 

[YorkvilleNewfie]

Looking back into his/her old threads, it apppears as though Oskar's spookiness and fear issues have been going on since he was a puppy (2007) So it doesn't appear to be a sudden change in behavior...

 

[new_2_newf]

I'm so sorry for the decision you are having to make

 

[knie0012]

It is a difficult decision! But, we want Oskar to be happy and comfortable!

Thank you for keeping this thread up.

 

[Pam G]

It is a difficult decision! But, we want Oskar to be happy and comfortable!

.

Definitely a difficult decision, but I totally agree...whatever would be best for him...that is what is important.

 

[Lori]

Thread was removed for review per GAD's rules. Angela and I both thought it should stay even though it is borderline. We hope a home is found for this dog.

Ok, so wasn't seeing things!! I knew I had read this thread and then went back to check on it and it was gone. I only see this thread as asking for advice.

Now back to original question/request, it wouldn't hurt to do a thryoid work up. You never know and it would be a good thing to rule out. I hope rescue can help you and thanks for helping him find the best home for him. I'm sure it has to be heart breaking for your family.