[greglepore]

Crate training works, and dogs don't really mind crates. They won't poop in a confined space where they live, but you have to do the right thing by the dog and take it out when it needs to go. It'll take more time with a mature dog.

Labs are very high energy/drive dogs-not the choice for an ambivalent family, but you have the dog.

You really need an honesty check-do you REALLY want the dog, or is it just you can't accept the failure of letting it go... no guilt if the dog goes to a loving home, and a lab is easy to place. I mean, seriously, if you don't want the constant companionship, why have the dog? That's not a judgement on you, just a fact...too many people in this situation "refuse to fail" when everyone would be happier by moving on. Like a bad marriage...