Thanks to Pam I found this thread, otherwise I would have missed it. Thanks Pam

Graham and Cassie were together for close to a year and not once did they play. They also see each other about 2-3 times a week and they acknowledge each others' presence but that's about it. After over 2 years of knowing each other they still don't play. I think Graham tried playing a few times but Cassie was very unreceptive to the idea. She really didn't have the desire. Since my mom got Ritz, who is an active, playful little 14 month old shih tzu, she has played with him very, very little. Occationally Ritzie will pester her to no end and she'll eventually blow up and growl and chase Ritz away aggressively. But for the most part she's so tolerant of Ritz attempting to get her to play.

Cassie is just not playful with other dogs and there was little I could do about it. I was told to "wait it out" and that they will eventually play, but it never happened. I just accepted that and stoped trying to get them to play. I took Graham to the dog park when he really wanted another dog to play with. I just don't think Cassie is the playful type, regardless of how wonderful of a play partner Graham, Ritz or Kersey are. She's content watching Kersey play with Ritz and Graham play with Kersey.

I think that it's always nice when dogs play, but it's ok when they don't. The young fella will learn that his brother is not the most playful pup, and he'll use a bit more descression with his attempts at forcing play upon the sheltie. As long as they aren't fighting, their relationship being a non-playful one is still healthy I think. Cassie is a very happy dog. As is Ritz, even though he knows that he can't play with her. As is and was Graham when he lived with her and was unable to ger her to play.

I would suggest taking the little poodle to a play group or doggie daycare as often as possible so he is able to play with other dogs, stay socialized, and get some of his pent up energy out, so he's more wiped out when he's around the sheltie. That's what I did with Graham and that's what my mom does with Ritz so he can get a chance to play with other dogs like he so much enjoys to do.

They may also eventually start playing, but if the sheltie is anything like Cassie, it's not going to happen. I think dogs are great company to each other regardless of if they play or not.

I hope this helps I sure do wish I could see those dogs, especially that little poodle