[FlDebra]

Everyone seems to be assuming your child is your stepson but you said in one post that your husband is not "this child's" biological father, but he knows no other. ("I called him "the kid" because he has been giving me greif lately (the past 4.5 years)when it comes to minding. I do love him and wish I could figure something out to help our relationship (trust me, I've tried) but he sure is the most difficult child I've been around. He is not my husbands son biologically but he knows no other dad.") So, it is sounding to me like he is YOUR BIOLOGICAL SON and your husband's stepson.

I am feeling no bonding with your son at all. You do not use any terms of endearment or even hint that you love this child. The way you talk about him is that you have already placed the dog above your child! That is just not right. I love my animals but they are still animals and as such will never take precedence over children, my own, others or grandchildren.

I agree that you should NOT bring a tiny pet into a home with a child who does not mind you. That is something you need to be taking care of before you add another stressor to the situation. Not only did you pick an inappropriate breed, you found an undersized puppy to boot. It is like you are asking for a tragedy where you can blame your son, your flesh and blood, your pride and joy (not "the kid").

Since Shannon was already brave enough to broach the subject, I will build on it. Please find another home for this puppy and then get some help with parenting. I would reach out to your church if you go, or to social services counseling as another choice. You need to get the mother- child bond built quickly before it is too late. Ask yourself if your child really goes to bed each night feeling loved and cared for? Does he feel you love him more than this new puppy? What things do you do to make HIM feel special? These are just questions for you to ask and answer yourself. You are not accountable to me or this forum. But you bared a problem and people are going to tell you what they think. I feel like it is a social obligation that I owe this child I have never met. Love him first and fully before even thinking of adding a pet. Then add pet the whole family can enjoy! I did not have yorkies when my boys were young. They minded VERY well but accidents happen and I felt we were safer with a little larger dogs. You don't have to go huge, just more of a sturdy breed. This is just my opinion. Your situation might be different than you are giving the impression. I hope that is the case. I would love to be wrong! But everytime I have seen someone refer to their child the way you do -- there is a big problem! Time to self reflect!

Ask yourself why almost all of the replies thought this child was your stepson? They were feeling no bond, no compassion, no motherly love! I do wish you well and will pray that you can bring your family together as it should be.