littlebeam (11-17-2015)
I'm sorry for the loss of your previous lab. I agree that something feels like it's missing without a dog in the house. I've told my husband many times that no dog is a deal breaker for me! I grew up dog-less and I'll never go back to having no dogs in my life.
My husband was not a small dog person. Said he would never have a dog smaller than a beagle. Well I think I got the last laugh when I brought home a then 4lb dachshund. The rest is history. He turns to mush around his "little baby" and loves that little pipsqueek to pieces even though she is "my dog." It's different having a little dog. There are definitely upsides and downsides to both sizes.
I think fostering is a great idea when the time is right. It would allow you to "test" a different breed or even a new lab. That's how we ended up with Lily, actually. I wasn't looking for a small dog but ended up falling in love with her.
littlebeam (11-17-2015)
I just lost my Moby a few weeks ago - and it is still like a punch in the stomach. People grieve at different times and in different ways. I spent some time looking over old photographs of when Moby was in his prime and running around and doing big hikes and rock climbs with me. It made me really realize how very long he had been sick and old - I had almost forgotten what an amazingly beautiful and vigorous dog he once was. Perhaps your husband might enjoy looking at some photos of when your dog was not ill. t may be - that you may need to compromise with a different sort of dog. I love labs best as well - but - they are what I know. There are some really sweet smaller dogs - that I think might be suitable some time in the future. Good luck.
Forever in my heart - Sweet gentle Moby - lover of belly rubs, bacon, and Barbara 9-10-2001 to 11-2-2015
littlebeam (11-17-2015)
I've seen people concentrate on negative facts as a way to avoid things. I would give him more time and start mentioning the goodcmemories and I think he will become more positive about getting another dog. However it may take longer to want another lab because it may remind him too much of your lab.
littlebeam (11-17-2015)
So sorry about the loss of Moby. I hope your fond memories make this time less painful. I know it's very hard right now. Thanks for your advice.
I can certainly understand how your husband feels. Labs are all I've ever had, so they are all I know. They are high energy, high maintenance, high drive, high love their people, high they want to please you kind of dogs. I can't imagine not having a Lab in my house.
I'm 57. I've had Labs for 31 amazing years. I've got a 4 year old female and a 19 month old male. They wear me out. Sometimes I almost feel bad as I can't really keep up with them. I do my best to meet their needs. Walks, play, training, classes, competitions.
Honestly, they keep me moving, they make me think, and they give me purpose.
But in the end, I love them like you can't believe, so I do what I can to be the best dog dad I can be. My wife will tell you I get this big goofy grin on my face when I look at them. And yes I admit I do.
Now with all this being said, I respect that your husband may not be ready to have a Lab, and that's ok. I understand his pain. It's so very hard when you lose one, and we all cope differently.
I'd say give your husband some time, a work with him to make a decision that's best for everyone.
littlebeam (11-18-2015), Moby and Barley's Mom (11-19-2015)
I spent the weekend w/ a number of friends and their dogs at an obed workshop. Miniature poodles wouldn't even be out of my spectrum at this point to suggest to your husband. They are smart, non-shedding, and pretty darned healthy. Anyhow,there is nothing wrong at compromising w/ your hubby.
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littlebeam (11-18-2015)
I am so sorry for your loss. I feel for you, I can not imagine my life, my house without a Lab, I just can not. I may feel differently in 10-15 years but I doubt it. Maybe your husband needs more time and maybe fostering would be a great idea. Whatever you decide I do wish you all the best.
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Maxx and Emma Jean
Ozzy - 10/2002 - 06/2011 - Rest well my sweet boy. You are forever remembered, forever missed, forever in my heart.
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