Expert: Kaza - 3/8/2008

Question
hi we took a three year old bichon in three weeks ago he is loving taking a little practice with the trainning but everything is going ok apart from he wont play we've got ball bears you name it we've got it he just wont engage do you have any ideas hes got a great personality but when it come to play time he goes blank why?

Answer
Hi Louisa
this is very common with rescue dogs, they lack socialisation and must be taught how to interact with his new pack (YOUR FAMILY)
I would buy a treat ball, they are excellent at getting the shy rescues to interact with you , you fill them with treats and as the dog touches it , they fall out. Another good idea is the balls that you record your voice into, You can say what you want, talk with a high pitched voice,  it always gets a better postive reaction.
Just be patient, you dont know what kind of background comes with the doggy and its likely that they were not played with, maybe old owners?
So its now your ob to be mum and teach him how to play and be part of your pack x

Good luck

I have lots of tricks to teach the dog on site, feel free to log in and have a look
www.eurobichons.com

Best wishes