My alcoholic ex wants the dog

Unless the dog has a chip, he would have to prove (legally) the following:

a. It's the same dog
b. Establish that he's the sole owner.

For someone with his checkered background and the fact that the dog has been with you for years, that sounds like a very tall order indeed!

Is it possible for you to get the dog microchipped to show it as your dog perhaps?

As others have said, try to get some legal advice and contact the Police.

I wish you the very best of luck.

Yes to all of the above. Keep the dog safe, for the children’s sake. If necessary, in a temporary foster home. Charities will help with this. Or I will! Your ex sounds a proper t@@@

I hope the legal beagles have been able to help, but it might help others to know that Dogs Trust have a fostering program for people in domestic abuse situations. They foster the dog for you until you are safe. I'm not sure if they would be able to help in this situation.
They're always looking for fosterers, BTW. I'm hoping to do that once my old girl is no longer with me.
I hope your situation improves soon x

Just a thought, sounds as if your children are quite adult, if you all say you bought the dog surely no one would believe him if he tries to get it legally.

If I were you I would claim the dog was a gift to you - therefore your property regardless of who paid for it. He would have to prove otherwise and if he's an alcoholic I very much doubt he would be able to do this or stand the stress of a court case. Don't let him see you're upset it will give him a sense of power.
Incidently there is a herbal remedy called kudzu root which studies have shown reduces the appeal of alcohol to heavy drinkers. Sounds like he could do with some.
I hope you keep YOUR dog!

Thank you all again. I took everyone’s advice. I went to the vet and got her chip details and changed them. Then I got excellent advice from a specialist lawyer. I think Nelly might sleep safely on my bed for the foreseeable future. A fine bedfellow. Unconditional love with no complications. Xx

Great news, Felicity53!

Is he ever going to take you to court over this? I doubt it. Does he have a key to your home? I doubt it.

So just forget it!

I hope to goodness you have nothing to do with this man and am glad your dog is safe.

Well done, Felicity. You can all sleep well now. Very best wishes.