How to deal with Ignorant loved ones? - Page 4

GunnersMum · 09-24-2008, 11:53 AM

LMAO. Mjwill, if the breeder you eventually go see doesn't ask you half these questions, RUN, don't walk, away. Wait until you find one that asks all these questions and more before letting you take one of their babies.

Seriously. Everyone here does not want to see another puppy end up bounced around from home to rescue to home for the rest of it's life because someone didn't think through all the what if's before bringing the new puppy home. Don't think we're all getting on your back about this for the sake of argument.

Mjwill · 09-24-2008, 12:22 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by juliabustard

What are the ages and sexes of the Goldens you have?

One is a 10 yr old FAT male.. one is a 8 yr old laid back female.

Marvelgirldobe · 09-24-2008, 01:34 PM

Sure by the textbook definition of "ignorant," your father qualifies. He "lacks knowledge." But the connotation of the term is pejorative. Your father is not ignorant. And he's not even necessarily in the minority. His fears are understandable and should be considered. I can promise you that calling him -- or anyone else with an organic fear of the breed -- ignorant or being combative will only serve to drive a wedge between the two of you.

Your job is to recognize his fear, voice appreciation for the concern, and explain how you are going to go above-and-beyond with regard to training and socialization. Because, frankly, you are NOT getting a Labrador. You are getting a wildly powerful dog with protective instincts. You owe it to the breed to take as seriously as humanly possible the capabilities of your dog-to-be.

The more you can explain that to your father, the better chance you have of getting his blessing.

Jax · 09-24-2008, 04:02 PM

Marvelgirldobe has given some excellent advise. I think someone already asked, but is there a rescue near you or do you know anyone that already has a Dobe that you can introduce your dad to? that, as well as the approach Marvelgirldobe suggested may be your ticket. show dad you truly appreciate his concerns, (because you really do) and try to work threw them with him. You can't push him into accepting something he is leary about. (if he is like my dad - that is just reason for him to dig his heels in deeper!) Walk him threw it, let him meet a good rep of the breed. Allow him to come to the same conclusions we all have about the breed on his own. The best way will be for him to be around a Dobe and see for himself. Patience and Luck to ya!

heartbroken · 09-24-2008, 07:05 PM

Has your father read this thread? If not, worth considering...than you can have an in-depth discussion with him based on the varying opinions and feedback you have received so far.

Morpheus · 09-25-2008, 12:11 PM

MjWill, where are you from?>

prophecy · 09-25-2008, 03:22 PM

I have only one person my dobie doesnt like that was in my inner circle.My dad. He doesnt ''trust'' him and 'gaurds' me. I am not speaking to my father anymore,due to non-dog related issues.I wonder if he knew that my dad was unstable?

As for others neg opinions or fear, if they are friends or family thats around alot,I just try to help them understand about the ''bad press.'' I ask them to meet Kane,and if they get too strange about it,i just dont push it. most everyone who meets him,loves him. If its seldom seen people that come in to visit who,failed the ''meet the dobie'' test. i just put him out to play or crate him,and drop it. Some people just wont get it,and i'd rather not force them to try.Some friends i see elsewhere,due to fears of dogs.(not my dogs,any dogs)

but expect the breed ignorance,its bound to happen just shrug it off.you know the truth.

I get the ''evil dobermann'' out alot,and shrug it off.I also get 'curious' people,and allow them to meet the dobie.lol. They find out that dobes arent evil,and more likely to kiss yor hand than eat it,and love you to death than bite you.