How do I cope after my dog was put down due to aggression?

I must clarify this dog belonged to my brother and his girlfriend. It was their decision and I disagree with it. I am 20 years old and well aware of the circumstances surrounding their choice. But it was not what I would have done.Zara was a mix of a collie and labrador. Absolutely lovely dog and always made my day. However, she was always afraid of people. As a pup she used to back away from them. But as she got older she began barking and then lunging. After she tried to bite a friend of my brother's, my family discussed it and decided it was the safest thing to do as there are many children in the area and it is impossible to keep an eye on her at all times. I was told yesterday evening about the decision and 24 hours later she is gone. I said my goodbyes and I am thankful for that. However, I became so close to the dog I feel quite empty inside knowing that she is gone. I feel I have let her down.As I have said the decision was not mine and I disagreed with it. I know the reasons behind the decision were valid. I just can't cope with the fact she is gone. Is there any way to cope with this? Thank youAlso to clarify she has lunged at several people before we have intervened. It was only a matter of time before it happened when nobody was around.We took her to several behaviour specialists and classes. Nothing was working. This was recommended to us by the local vet.

I have a senior Lab who has bitten the sh*t out of me on two occassions and growls when someone walks in the room, you would consider him aggressive, I do not... Do old men not huff and puff, and have fits when they're old? It's the same.He's just grumpy, I would never put him down... I raised him as a puppy and I owe it to him to see him through and make him as comfortable as possible in his last few years.So I have no advice for you.Although I have advice for your family, deliver this message ; next time before you put an "aggressive" dog to sleep take it to the VET to get it checked for health issues and try a trainer because there's usually a reason.

Yes, there is a way for you to cope with this. Even though it wasn't your dog, I am so sorry for your loss. I lost my son Tobie to kidney disease last year on Valentines Day. He was my heart. He was 11 yrs. and 8 mos. old. He was diagnosed on Jan. 17, 2012. The vets prognosis was 1-3 mos. He lasted 27 days. He cried in my arms the night before and the next morning he fell down trying to pee. That when I knew it was time. It was the hardest decision I ever had to make. I did it for Tobie, and he is no longer in pain. I love and miss him so very much but I know I will see him again at a place called "Rainbow Bridge". As will you. I am so sorry for what you are going through. Just remember and cherish the memories that you shared together. They will never ever fade and will always keep you strong. My prayers are with you always.Rainbow BridgeJust this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent; His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....Author Unknown

your dog had fear aggression. NOTHING you could have done would have made the dog safe. No amount of training or love will ever make a fear aggressive dog safe around people. The dog needed to be destroyed and you need to accept the fact the dog was dangerous and they did the right thingDon't be so delusional to think you can cure or help a dog that is fear aggressive and mentally unstable. you cant. They would have been sued after the dog attacked an adult or worse, a child. Fear aggressive and human aggressive dogs are a danger and should always be humanely destroyed. They can't be trained or 'cured' at all and are walking time bombs

people are sick. no dog should be put down. I wish I could have taken him.

If Lildpup believes what she/he says she/he is living in a dream world.

(((HUGS))) Sorry to hear this. The dog sounds like she may have inherited some bad genes. The poor dog didn't sound very happy. It was probably for the best.

If the vet advices this i am sure it was for the best ! Although we all know our pets sometimes pets can act differently to others ! Its better safe than sorry. You probably were attached to him and thats what pets do they love you and you love them but if he was a real danger hun it had to be done Don't be so disheartened.Maybe the dog should have been given away for someone else to have telling them the dogs temperament ! Could have worked to be away from the area it knew to a new one ? But who knows ! Time will heal all x