Wow--once again, thanks for all of the advice. I do know that one (or more) of you hit on the exercise thing and I am soooo bad about that. We have a HUGE backyard and so I become very lazy about taking him for a walk. I know that he is stealing for attention and I do trade treats for certain items but I only WISH he would bring the item to me to trade--usually I send my kids for the item while I distract him with a treat. Also, with the weather being so darn frigid here, a walk has been out of the question. As for crating, I can't crate him while I am gone as he will punish me with leaving presents (which he will roll around in--no matter how small the crate). He isn't really too bad while we are gone as we are diligent about closing doors and I come home at lunch-more for attention as he has access to his doggy door 24/7. I have found that he is not distructive if I come home 1/2 way through my day to spend even 20 minutes with him. Hopefully, the weather will warm up and I will try to do a better job about taking him for long walks. The tricks idea is intriging, however, I will have to read up on that because the only thing I've managed to teach him is to sit. I had an Australian Terrier whom I was able to teach many tricks to but Rockie simply cocks his head and looks at me like I'm from Mars. Thanks to all of you--at least for some, I know I'm not alone with this issue--for the rest of you, I remain jealous (but not too much, I do love my little guy!)
Dawn