Rescued Cairn Terrier

Question
Hi Elizabeth
We have just re-homed a 3-4 year old Cairn Terrier male and have named him Archie (rescued 18/9/11).  He is a very gentle boy who doesn't bark or whine. He is house-trained (just one little accident on the first afternoon home)and is good on the lead although needs training. He is very submissive and wants to be with people all the time. He follows us everywhere, even just across the room.

We do not know his background and I am a bit concerned that he is bored, however he does not seem to know how to play.  We have bought toys of all shapes and sizes, given him balls and socks and he is not interested, when walking he doesn't even want to fetch.

Also we would appreciate some advice if possible on getting him to sleep in a different part of the house as on attempting this he will the moan and bark.

Kind regards
Paula

Answer
Hi Paula,
First off thank you so much for adopting your little fella. Rescues can be the most grateful pets in the world.
Secondly- it will take time for him to readjust. Since you don't know much about him, he may be grieving. It will take a while for him to settle in- a while before he really feels up to playing. He may not be that kind of personality either. So this is not your worst  problem but give him time and lots of affection.

Your second concern also will just take patience. Put a crate or private space that is just for him in the room you want him to sleep in. Cover it.  Terriers are den animals and really like having a cave to crawl into for peace and safety. Put his favorite blankie in there a could of toys nearby, put treats in there - leave the door open. Sit nearby and encourage him to go in. Just be close by.  I have crates and beds all over the house. My office is where I keep them when we are not home but I am in there all the time and they just follow me in. I have a gate on the door. When I am not home or if they fall asleep in there when I go to bed that is where they stay. I just shut the gate. I don't sleep with the girls because I am such a light sleeper.

Hope this gives you some ideas. Cairns are fabulous pets, patience is the best trainer.
thanks again and good luck!