I live with my youngest daughter, son-in-law and 2 granddaughters aged 7 & 8. We had wanted a dog for several years but didn't want it to be left at home on its own all day. During lockdown I retired from my job so we decided to get a cocker spaniel puppy. From day 1 he wriggled his adorable way into our hearts and we have all had so much fun with him BUT he became a biter. The vet recommended a canine behaviourist and after some blood and poo tests and working with him for a morning she diagnosed a genetic imbalance causing resource guarding. This condition makes him very protective towards certain people, food, toys and anything they perceive as theirs, such as their basket. If anyone came close to our dog when he was guarding something, he would bite. It can't be trained out of them and doesn't make for a family dog. My son-in-law got badly bitten last week and needed a trip to A&E and the decision had to be made. Our dog walker adopts problem dogs. It's just her and her husband and they offered to adopt him. He has gone this morning and I am so very sad. My head tells me it's the only option we had but my heart is heavy. I shall miss the lovely side of him, licking my ears, cuddling up with me and just being there. Life seems empty today.
