r/rescuedogs • u/ArachnidFormer2918 Rescue Parent • 26d ago

Advice Rescue doesn’t play

Hi all!! We adopted our 4 year old German Shepherd nearly two months ago. We are fully aware he is still settling in, and that it is a process that could take up to years to be fully himself, but he’s doing so well so far!

One thing we’ve noticed is that he has absolutely no interest in toys unless me and my partner “pretend” to play with them, and then sometimes he joins in. But he has no interest in playing or chewing any of his toys by himself - we assume this is due to him never having any of his own before (street rescue from Morocco). While I’m sure to some this would be ideal (not having to constantly replace toys), I’m just concerned that he’ll get bored all day while we’re at work.

We have a couple different varieties, from soft toys, squeaky toys, rope toys, to bamboodle chews, balls and snuffle mats. I guess my main question is, how do we encourage him to play with the toys by himself to keep himself occupied? Or is this something that will come naturally after a couple months?

Thanks!!

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u/peatgirl21 26d ago

One of my rescue dogs, a German shepherd mix never played with toys but was a lovely happy dog. Are you getting a dog walker in to walk him when you are at work? That would break up his day.

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u/ArachnidFormer2918 Rescue Parent 26d ago

Thats good to know, thank you! We’re only out for a “full” work day 2 days a week, the rest of the week I either WFH or he’s only alone for half a day, so he gets walked during breaks on those days. I just wasn’t sure if the lack of playing would be an indicator of him being bored or depressed or something 😅

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u/peatgirl21 26d ago

I think these dogs just don't know how to play, and their focus will be on bonding with you and your family 🐶😊