We rescued Lane from a puppymill bust just before Christmas 2008. So, we will have had her exactly 4 months tomorrow, but it surely feels longer - I can't imagine my life without her.
I think Rory, the yorkie we already had, really taught Lane how to play. Lane was estimated to be around 2 when we rescued her (and in much better shape than some of these sweet rescues), and Rory will be 2 in August, so I think that they are similar in age/activity level probably helped. She has mimicked many of the things we have seen Rory do. The first time I saw Lane play on her own was for a bully stick. She kind of walked past it and then kind of tried to play with it almost how she'd play with another dog - little butt up in the air, pouncing around.
When we first got her she had NO idea what to do with a toy, the squeakers scared her, she must have thought Rory was crazy with her fetch obsession, and now she is joining right in. I was so upset thinking she may never show that joy on her face that you are talking about...but at 9 years old, coming from such a horrible place, I'm sure living with you is just like Heaven!
Does your poodle like to play with toys or balls? Maybe if Sammy sees her play with the toys, he will start to model some of his behavior after hers? Another thing to consider is that he may just be more of a cuddle bug than a "player." I know you said he wasn't food motivated, and I don't think that chews would excite him since the poor baby can't chew very well.
Does he show any interest in a plush toy if you let him sniff it? |