Upset thinking about rehoming our dog

I have had our black Labrador since she was a puppy, but since my son was born 2.5 years ago, it’s been tough. My husband has recently started working shifts, and I nearly work full time. I’m finding it hard to have the time for her that she deserves. The morning walk is rushed on my days off because I’m trying to get out the door with a toddler for his groups, and everything just seems like a hassle. He gets upset because he doesn’t want to go in his pram and wants to go on his scooter, and then she doesn’t get a full walk. I’m also just highly sensitive to things like all the dog hair, the smell of a dog, and the claws on the laminate flooring. I do care for her, but I don’t think I love her like I did anymore.

My husband suggested rehoming her the other night, which is heartbreaking to think about, but I wonder if it’s for the best—where someone can give her the time and energy she deserves. I’m worried she won’t go to a good home and might get abused, which is what’s holding me back. Not sure what to do; has anyone else felt like this after having children with their pets?

eleanor-no: I’ve had the same kind of feelings when my kids were small. Those feelings went mostly away when I prioritized things so that the dog gets attention as well as the kids. The dog got less annoying when it had its needs met. Also, if you are not sleeping enough, it will affect your feelings towards the dog a lot :sweat_smile:. Now I’m rehoming our dog 'cause of allergies, and it makes me extremely sad.

DementedPimento: There was an article not too long ago about women rejecting their pets after having a baby. Apparently, it’s fairly common. If you cannot take good care of your dog, the only responsible thing to do is to find her a home where she will be properly cared for. Continuing to house an animal you resent and just give the bare minimum of care isn’t good for the dog.

Complex_Cow1184: She will much prefer being with you and making it work over a new family. You don’t need to be the perfect owner. Just take care of her needs and show her love.

CorCaroliV: I agree with this. It confuses me when people talk about the dog not getting the attention they deserve. Dogs can be very adaptable. I think it’s more about the adjustments you need to make rather than just focusing on the dog.

Korrailli: Can you afford a dog walker a couple times a week? It might help take some of the burden off you. Some places even have fields you can rent for an hour to let your dog off-leash, which could be fun for both of them! Maybe your son can ride his scooter while you walk the dog, so he gets tired out too.

solittletime23: How can you un-love your pet? Rehoming should be the absolute last resort. There are many things you can try to make this work for you and your dog.

u/kamh4567: Getting a dog is committing to care for it for the lifetime of that pet. You want to rehome your dog because it’s hair and smell bother you? Yikes. Pets are not disposable. You should consider hiring a dog walker or rearranging your schedule instead.

readzalot1: Not necessarily. Many dogs can adapt well to a new home. If you really feel you can’t keep her, just be careful about where she goes.

u/UnusualSomewhere84: You made a commitment to your dog to care for her until the end of her life. Make it work!