I have been planning on getting a doberman and now all of a sudden my husband is saying that he is afraid of the breed at that the dog is going to scar our childrens faces, attack them etc. I know that this is not the case, and that they are wonderful dogs. The puppies were just born and i can't believe he is wimping out like this....how do I prove to him that these dogs are actually very sweet. I won't be able to get it if he doesn't get over his fear because the dog will sense this and then could possibly back my husband into a corner and "tear off his face"
2007-01-02 07:13:00 · 20 answers · asked by coconut 3 in Pets ➔ Dogs
People have many misunderstandings about dogs, especially big ones. Dobermans have been used as ferocious guard dogs in many movies and books, etc., which is probably why your husband is scared of them. Let your husband go pick out the dog with you and encourage him to interact w/them. Take your children too if they like puppies as well. Eventually he'll warm towards them (if the puppies are cute).
2007-01-02 07:34:56 · answer #1 · answered by luvin' life 1 · 2⤊ 0⤋
I think you need to talk rationally to your husband about his fears rather than calling him a wimp. He may have issues that need to be resolved before you get a dog that could be resolved with frank and kind discussion.
Further, if you believe that simply because he has fear issues the dog will 'tear his face off' then you probably need to do more research on dog behavior before owning one. Simply having a fearful human in the house does not turn a dog - any dog- into an attack animal.
If your husband is fearful of the dog, I guarantee you that having this dog will only be a constant headache for you and possibly end in divorce. You and he will always be on opposite sides of any issue about the dog and it will tear you apart. Make sure that you AND he decide on the dog and can agree on what you get. Try to keep a more open mind that possibly some dog other than a doberman is the best choice for everyone's happiness, not just yours.
2007-01-02 15:22:34 · answer #2 · answered by SC 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Why don't you find a breeder and have your husband ask all the questions that worry him about the breed? Find somebody that his been breeding them for a long time and go to them with your questions and worries. They should be able to help you out.
Have you thought about looking at other breeds that might be a little less frightening to your husband? Or are you set solely on getting a doberman? You may want to keep your options open if this doesn't fall through like you want it to. Research other breeds as well and ask him for his opinion on what type of dog he likes. That way it may not cause tension in your relationship if a child does get nipped by the teething puppy. Good luck!
2007-01-02 15:19:14 · answer #3 · answered by pink_avocado 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
how old are your children and can they care for and are able to be responsible for the puppy? Your husband may be right in being concerned about getting such a big dog. I realize that you started the sentence with "I have been planning" Does that mean that you decided on your own to get the dog and just informed your husband of it later on? If so that was a wrong approach.
As for the tearing his face off part, if it is a pup then he will grow use to the dog and the dog to him.
2007-01-02 15:27:11 · answer #4 · answered by K-Marie 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Your husband is not being a whimp at all. He is concerned about your kids, as he should be. He is also right about the particular Doberman breed. My veterinarian told me, when I asked him if it was true what they say about Dobermans, that Dobermans are known to be fine one minute and then suddenly turn on their owners for no reason. A puppy is a puppy for so long. It's when it grows up that you have to worry about it. I'm not trying to sound mean, but I would never own a Doberman, especially if you have kids. Have you considered a more gentle breed? Good Luck!
2007-01-02 15:32:36 · answer #5 · answered by Chihuahua Lover 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Unfortunately, even though I like dobermans and think they're a lovely breed, in order to keep peace you may have to go for something your hubby is not afraid of. This is one of those situations where compromise may be the best course of action.
However, if you want to try to convice him, take him to places where there's large gatherings of dobies. Like a dog show, or better yet a doberman specialty. A dobie rescue event is good too. I don't think anyone could spend the day surrounded by these sweeties and not want one.
I first fell in love with dobies at a show, when the bi tch sitting behind me stuck her head under my arm and begged to be petted. Never had one, but I like them.
2007-01-02 15:18:09 · answer #6 · answered by DaBasset - BYBs kill dogs 7 · 3⤊ 0⤋
You and husband need to compromise on the breed. Your husband is right certain dogs are more aggressive. However any animal needs to be supervised around children. Try a Labrador, St. Bernard, or Mastiff...they are gentle and loyal breeds that are greet with kids.
2007-01-02 15:20:20 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Your husband is just concerned for your children's safety. Maybe you could talk to him about adopting a dog from a breed with a more child friendly reputation - labrador or golden retriever for example. Or you could get amixed breed from a shelter - those are usually child friendly, and they are the loneliest dogs out there, who really need a loving family.
2007-01-02 15:25:32 · answer #8 · answered by Erika 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
A dog who will attack someone who is afraid is not safe. So you are not so sure either. Consult a professional trainer together with your husband, or get another breed. A golden retriever is very good with children.
Visit this site:
http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/children.htm
2007-01-02 15:22:13 · answer #9 · answered by cpinatsi 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
They can be as long as they are trained well. However, I am sorry. I have to agree with your husband there. Dobermans are not a breed to start children out with. They were bred to be uard dogs.
2007-01-02 15:24:11 · answer #10 · answered by Crossroads Keeper 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋