I'm having some trouble following what's going on... because first you say that he kicks/hits your dog, then you minimize it by saying "kicks the dog" is an expression, like "kicking someone out of the house".

Your initial post raised red flags for me. It sounds like your boyfriend is controlling, and violent towards your dog. I don't know you in real life, so it's hard to tell... all I have to go on is what you've said, but if that's true, please get out now.

Don't dump the dog for a boyfriend that may only become more controlling and violent! Keep the dog, find a new boyfriend - who loves you and your pup!