Man thanks guys... I really appreciate the explainations & examples. This dog was nice, but too big & hyper... it could get carried away w/ the kids & not even know she hurt them. The kids loved her- but you are right- can't have her do the same thing to somone elses family. She was aggresive to other animals too... killed some livestock once. I was that dog's last chance, but I put a bullet in her head. This is one of those things that my dad had to do when I was a kid... now I have to take on the same responsibility. I asked you guys because I felt I had to do it at some point... but if you ask my wife, she would say "give it away" or take to obidence school, or to a dog shelter of some kind.... seemed silly & only proloning the issue. I lied to the kids & said I took her to the ranch because she would be better off there. It is hard to look my 5 year old girl in the eyes right now knowing what I did. Scooter