I don't generally post here too often, but this topic has drawn my attention. First off, I sincerely hope your son recovers fully and quickly and isn't left with a lifelong hatred or fear of dogs because they truly can be "man's best friend." However, I also can't help but to agree with at least some of what 'fishnjunkie' is trying to say. Granted, the guy has a hard time writing and spelling, but the point he is try to make is very valid. A Rott is NOT bred to be a family dog. True, many people have these dogs and they end up making great pets. However, dog breeds have inherited characteristics that don't just go away. Raise a lab as a family dog and take it hunting later, and the instinct will be there to chase and retrieve birds. Bring a Rott into a home and raise it as a family dog and the instinct to attack and bring harm will still be there. You house is full of dangers for small children and generally you take precautions to keep them away from your child. I assume you don't leave poisonous cleaning agents on the floor for him to get into. However, if you leave the child alone with a Rott, to poke at him, pull his legs, and bite his ears, the dog's natural instincts may very well come out. Is this the dog's fault? In my opinion, NO. If you had a truer family dog, maybe so. But with a Rott, I think you are inviting trouble unless you never take your eyes off the two of them. It's becoming easier and easier for people to never accept responsibility for anything, and this very well may be another example. Please seriously consider finding a good home for the dog before he gets the slug.