Viv,
Yes, Erich is right and the best advice from someone who knows dogs. Obedience classes is a very good idea and will make life better for you both. I would certainly go for that option.

Most dogs live up to between 12 and 14 years. Then again I had a dog that lived up to 17.... with good care and lots of love.

On another subject, I must say that I make a good looking zombie.

Dam i thought you meant for the son bottom line, if the dog does not get the time and attention it deserves why should it be obediant, i think its too late in the day for me to try taking it to classes, i cant do the standing, let alone lots of walking, so i would not last the course myself.

Sean has Hartnup disease , little known or understood amongst the medical profession, we all have our crosses to bear, his biggest problem "for us" is that he looks and sounds totally normal, if you around him for about a day rather than a few minutes you might just spot something wrong but to live with 24/7 hence i am often on my boat

My youngest son suffers depression, had a failed marriage, many failed relationships and really went down. Finally when we thought we were going to lose him. We bought him a little dog. Well he is climbing back. In looking after his dog he has to look after himself.

I never realised just how debilitating depression is. I could not understand it at first. Like most, thought it was just something that could be turned off but it is one of the worst afflictions to suffer.

Unfortunate people who are afflicted with physical problems love themselves and want to enjoy life. Those with depression do not think they deserve to live and just want to die and will if they have the courage to do it.
My wife and I are so grateful to a 4 kilo white ball of fluff. A creature who has done what many professionals and tons of money failed to do. She has given us our son back.