they do respond to the tone of your voice as well as your mood. everyone's advice was really good. when i first got my puppy i'd talk to him in baby voice (and felt kinda silly) but he loved it. lol. i've also learned that his favorite type of toy is a squeaky toy. LOVES them! my trainer even sometimes has me use the squeak toy to get Moses to do tricks, because it works better than treats sometimes! he just likes the sound. lol. so yes get your baby toys and see what he responds to. be patient & gives lots of love!