​Rehoming a Dog with Behavioral Problems: A Compassionate Guide for Dog Owners

As dog lovers, we all dream of providing a forever home to our furry friends. We imagine a life filled with joyful walks, cozy snuggles, and wagging tails. But sometimes, despite our best efforts and intentions, things don’t go as planned. If you’re facing the tough decision of rehoming your dog due to behavioral problems, know that you’re not alone. Many pet owners have been in your shoes, and rehoming can sometimes be the best option for everyone involved, including the dog. This article aims to offer guidance and reassurance to help you through this challenging process.

Before Rehoming, Make Sure To Rule Out Other Factors

One of the first steps in making this decision is to understand the situation fully. Behavioral problems in dogs can stem from various sources, such as emotional immaturity, anxiety, territorial aggression, or resource guarding. For instance, in a recent dog owner group discussion I came across, a pet owner named Dave shared his struggle with a recently adopted young terrier exhibiting aggression towards his older dog. Despite extensive training and behavioral therapy, the aggression persisted, making the home environment stressful and unsafe for their older dog.

It’s crucial to rule out any medical issues that might be contributing to the behavior. Consulting with a veterinarian and a professional dog behaviorist can provide insights and possible solutions. However, if the behavior remains unmanageable and is causing distress to other pets or family members, rehoming might be the most compassionate choice.

Its A Responsible Decision

Rehoming a dog is not about giving up; it’s about making a responsible decision for the well-being of all parties involved. If you're feeling guilty, just know that you are doing the right thing. Think about it, by rehoming, you are thinking about:

1. Safety and Well-being: If your dog’s behavior poses a threat to other pets or people in the household, it’s essential to prioritize safety. An aggressive dog can cause serious harm, and living in constant fear is not fair to anyone, including the dog exhibiting the behavior.
2. Quality of Life: Both your dog and your other pets deserve a peaceful and happy life. In the discussion I mentioned earlier about Dave, his older dog became miserable and terrified due to the newly adopted young dog’s aggression. Rehoming the younger dog allowed the older one to live out her golden years in peace.
3. Finding the Right Home: Rehoming doesn’t mean you’re abandoning your dog. It means finding a better-suited environment where the dog can thrive. In many cases, like the one shared by the pet owner, finding a home with an experienced individual or family who understands the dog’s needs can lead to a much happier life for the dog.

Steps to Rehome Your Dog Responsibly

Now that you've made the difficult decision to rehome your dog, it is important to do so responsibly. It takes careful planning and consideration, so we've compiled a list of steps recommended by other dog owners to ensure a smooth transiton during this trying process:

1. Work with Professionals: Every dog's situation is different, so make sure to consult with a dog behaviorist or trainer to get a clear understanding of your dog’s issues and potential solutions. This will also help you explain the rehomed dog’s needs to potential new owners accurately.
2. Contact the Breeder or Rescue Organization: If you got your dog from a breeder or a rescue organization, reach out to them. Many responsible breeders and rescues will take the dog back or help you find a suitable new home.
3. Screen Potential Adopters: When looking for a new owner, It’s crucial to find someone who is experienced and capable of handling your dog’s specific behavioral issues. Be honest about the dog’s behavior and needs. A good match with an owner who understands and accepts this is essential for the dog’s future well-being.
4. Visit the New Home: If possible, visit the potential new home to ensure it’s a suitable environment. This can give you peace of mind knowing your dog will be well cared for.
5. Provide Detailed Information: Prepare a comprehensive history of your dog, including medical records, behavior patterns, and any training that has been done. This will help the new owner understand and manage the dog better.
6. Stay in Touch: If the new owners are open to it, stay in touch to get updates on how your dog is adjusting. This can provide comfort and closure, knowing your dog is happy and thriving.

Coping with Guilt and Grief

It’s natural to feel guilty or like you’ve failed when rehoming a pet. Remember, you’re making this decision out of love and responsibility. Here are some ways to cope with these feelings:

1. Seek Support: Talk to friends, family, or online communities who understand what you’re going through. Sharing your feelings can be incredibly therapeutic.
2. Focus on the Positive: Remind yourself that you’re giving your dog a chance to live a happier, more suited life. As many people (Like Dave from earlier) in similar situations have shared, their dogs often thrive in new homes better equipped to handle their specific needs.
3. Remember the Good Times: Reflect on the positive experiences you shared with your dog. These memories can be a source of comfort and remind you that you did your best.
4. Give Yourself Grace: It’s okay to grieve and feel sad. Allow yourself to process these emotions. Understand that making a tough decision for the well-being of your pets is a sign of a responsible and loving pet owner.

Real-Life Stories of Successful Rehoming

Hearing about others who have gone through similar experiences can be incredibly reassuring. In the group discussion I participated in, one pet owner, for example, shared how rehoming their terrier to a trainer and vet nurse with a large garden transformed the dog’s life. The dog went from a stressful environment to one where he could thrive and be happy in a lively and enriching environment.

Another story involved a  a German Shepherd with severe food aggression. The owner rehomed him to a family experienced with anxious and reactive dogs. The dog not only adjusted well but also formed new, positive relationships with other dogs and humans in their new home.

These stories highlight that rehoming, when done thoughtfully and responsibly, can lead to better outcomes for everyone involved.