Why didn't you call a dog trainer before returning the first pup? No offense, but you wouldn't return your kid.

Ok, sorry for the first reply, I just went back and read your original post that you DID call a pro. In your case, I may have made the same choice. I also have 2 "human" children (youngest being 2 years old). We have 6 furry children at the moment as well. I am not very familiar with the havanese breed, but our boxer has always been great with all kids, all strangers and other animals. She is so calm. She has never even attempted to bark, growl or nip at anybody in the 3 years we have had her (she is 4 years old). I think boxers are great family dogs.

 

A good breeder shouldn't hold it against you, heck even the breeder you returned the dog to is willing to give you another go at. Sometimes it just hapens that a dog doesn't mesh well with the family. You consulted with a behaviorist, did what you could, and made the ultimate decission as a mom that your childrens safety comes first. Be honset and straight with the breeders, it will help them when they place thier pups to ensure that both puppy and family are a good match. That being said many breeders, especialy for small dogs, have requirements that all children in the home be 6 years or older. It doesn't mean they have anything against your son, they are just looking out for the safety of the pups they produce. Hopefully you'll find a great breeder with a great pup that fits right in with your family.

 

When we purchased our first papillon our daughter was 10 years old. Several breeders told us that they would not sell us a dog because wehad a child in the house, until she was 12 years old. So don't worry that it's all about you. Sometimes breeders have their reasons, usually from a bad experience in the past.

Te next time around I would spend a great deal of time with the prospective dog (and usually the breeder can choose which pup would seem to work best in your household) with your son in the room. Our breeder allowed us to come over for an afternoon before she was certain that things would work out with our daughter. First she brought in a group of many dogs, both adults and pups to see how my daughter reacted. Then we slowly whittled down the group of dogs until just a couple of the prospective pups were left with us.

 

i would recommend getting an older dog that you'll know what the personality is already. if you don't go the breeder route you could try the shelters/spca's/rescues.