Re: playing with toys only when I am present

In Reply to: playing with toys only when I am present
Category:   Behavior Problems
Posted by:  Jess
Posted on:  March 30, 2003 at 09:36:33

: Hello,

: I have had my bud Rocky for two weeks. We adopted him from the shelter at approx. 8 months old. This seems like an adorable trait, but he will usually only play with his chew toys when he is able to curl in my lap or rest his front paws on my arm or leg. If I get up, he no longer has interest in them. Is he trying to "share?" Curious to know...thanks.

Response:

Dear Jess,

Sure, you can consider him wanting you to play with him and his toy as sharing -- what a sweet idea! :-) I encourage you to find additional ways to bond with Rocky in order to build his confidence and thus, his feeling of security. Teach him that retrieving his toys after you've tossed them is as much fun as "sharing" them. Take him to a basic training class so you can both see how smart he is. Establish a routine and be fair and consistent with the rules so you both know what to expect from each other.

On behalf of the Forum volunteers, thank you for choosing to adopt an unwanted Jack Russell.