Mad idea?

[puffinnuffin]

A friend is desperate for someone to look after her 2 year old dog whilst she goes abroad for a year. I tentatively said we possibly could but would have to have a trial run to see if it would work for our family (have a nearly 3 year old and 10 year old children).

Trial weekend was mixed. The dog howled and scratched most of the night and then messed. What I didn't realise is that the dog is used to sleeping in a human bed with a human and another dog. However he was fine in the day and very good on the lead when walking. It might be that the dog was confused and frightened as he had never stayed away before and is used to other dogs.

Is possible to stop a 2 year old dog sleeping in a bed and having its own comfy bed in a different room? How hard would it be and would it be a nightmare doing so? I really don't want a dog sleeping in my bed as my little boy still tries to climb in our bed (and wakes up most nights).

I don't want to let my friend down (there aren't any other options at the moment for her) but then it could be a nightmare having a small non sleeping child and a non sleeping dog! Should I just say no or have a longer trial time?

[gomowthelawn]

Obvious solution is that she starts training her dog NOW to sleep in his own bed. Explain to her that it will make it much easier for him to deal with the change of home if he doesn't have night time separation anxiety to deal with as well.

I don't blame you not wanting him in your bed. Shudder.... I know what my dog rolls in, and frankly given that, he isn't coming anywhere near my sheets

[puffinnuffin]

Thanks for your reply and advice.

Good idea about getting the owner to do the night time training. I will suggest that as I am not sure I could sleep train a dog and a toddler at the same time!

[bochead]

I don't think it'll work unless she commits to doing the night time training before she goes. Our dog isn't allowed upstairs at all in our house. A dog in the bed just isn't hygenic imho.

[higgle]

"A dog in the bed just isn't hygenic" You are quite right about this, but a cuddle from my old staffie under the covers is rather delightful, and when he goes to sleep his gentle snoring has a calming effect ( but it is an occasional treat)

[assumpta]

I agree that she should put in the hard work now to make it easier for you in respect of getting him used to sleeping on his own.

What is she doing with the other dog that she has?

More importantly, you are most probably going to love this dog after a very short time, have you thought of how you will feel when you have to give him back. You and your children will be heartbroken, especially your 10 year old. Think very carefully about this.

[puffinnuffin]

The other dog is going to another home.

We were planning on getting a dog at some point so would have one of our own just as the foster dog is going back. Sounds great in theory but probably painful in reality!

Part of me is thinking perhaps we ought to just say no but then the dog and his owner would be stuck. The owner is leaving in the summer. Feeling so torn as to what to do about it all!