[MadDeDo]

I agree with others--I think this is more of a family issue. The fact that you and your husband are not in agreement over parenting techniques is the problem. This is probably a huge reason why your son is wanting to "break the rules." Kids learn fast and they pay more attention than you think they do. If you and hubby are arguing over this and are clearly on opposite sides of the fence when it comes to discipline, he is picking up on all of it. He knows what he can get away with and with whom--and he at an age where CHALLENGING is a huge problem.

As far as the general "no small breeds in a home with children" I would have to disagree somewhat. If the parent has not taught their children how to respect animals from the very beginning, or they have a particularly difficult child, or one who is suffering from a mental/emotional disability, etc. I think common sense prevails and a small breed dog would not be the best idea. However, I have seen firsthand children being raised with small breed dogs with absolutely no issues whatsoever. I have a lot of experience with both--although I do not have children of my own yet. I have been involved with childcare for many many years, and am currently the caregiver of a little 2 year old girl. She has been around my Yorkies MANY times with supervision, I bring them to work with me often. Her family also has a puggle who is about 15 lbs, they had her before the skin baby was born. While she is still a toddler, she has been taught to be VERY respectful of the little dogs from the time she could understand such things. She knows that she must sit on the floor to hold one, and that she must always use "gentle touch" when petting them, etc. She is helpful and loves to help take them out to potty, feed them, etc. as well. I also have several friends whose children have been raised with Yorkies and other small breeds, and have not had any issues. I believe that parenting plays the biggest role in having small dogs with children, and I absolutely think that it CAN be done...but again, it is KEY that they are supervised and raised from the beginning to love and respect animals. Also, if two parents are present and they are not on the same page, that is a huge roadblock as well. However, to say that children can NEVER be raised with a small breed dog I would not consider an accurate statement...I believe it depends on your situation and your dedication to raising your children a certain way from the start. Of course, this is just my opinion and you know what they say about those...

Anyways, in your case, I would honestly recommend that you find this puppy another home. If your husband is going to continue parenting in this way, then what you are experiencing now is only the beginning--the problems will only get worse!! You HAVE to deal with this now! I have seen many families torn apart and children feeling the brunt of everything, all because the parents did not communicate well or were not willing to compromise and come together on parenting. Raising your children is something that you and your partner/spouse need to be in agreement on--discipline especially! If not, your child is going to suffer more and more the older he gets--whether he lets you know it or not.

Back to the puppy though, for her sake I would find her a wonderful home where she is not in danger as she is now. I know that you love her dearly, but would you rather her be safe and happy with a new family, or end up severely injured or dead at your home? You said it yourself that you are AFRAID for her--please do the right thing for this little innocent pup! Then you need to really take a long look at your family and take a huge step towards some big changes. That needs to be your first priority right now, based on your posts. None of this is meant to be accusatory or harsh, and is simply my advice and opinion based on personal experience.