It sounds like Rocco has the same sort of personality as my Sydney. Don't get discouraged.
Syd isn't one for petting either...but she does like to be on laps and sholders. She is still young (only 6 months) and still at that age her biggest priority is to play/chew. However since day one we have brought her chew bone up on to the couch so she is now in the habit of chewing on our laps. Also have you tried a good scratch instead of petting? He might find that enjoyable.
As far as biting during baths and such...I definately have the same problem. I posted a thread asking for advice and most everyone said they had never had a similar problem. Syd is just very strong willed. It isn't that what is being done to her is hurting her...she would just rather be doing other things. She is improving a little at a time...mostly because I NEVER let her win. Whatever it is that we are doing...bath, brushing, haircut, nail clipping...we finish it. The more she realizes that Mom always gets her way...eventually, the less she fights me. Ocassionally we have a serious biting problem...she has drawn blood. For these times...I have a muzzle. This may sound cruel...but it doesn't hurt her at all...and sometimes just the threat of the muzzle is enough to calm her down.
Also next week we are taking her in to get fixed. If you aren't planning to breed Rocco...you might want to consider this. Removing those pesky hormones often improves personality especially agressiveness.
Good luck to you. Just hang in there.
