Lovebird loves dog and not me!

[dangergirl]

I have a couple of quesitons about my new lovebird, Shorty. He was caged by himself, and the store wasn't sure if he was hand fed or not. They thought he was about 6 months old. He allows me to get him out of his cage with a brief chase, doesn't bite hard, and will sit on my shoulder, however, he won't perch on my finger or come to me. He LOVES my small dog and shows no fear towards him. My dog is interested in him, but treats him rather as an annoying younger brother, (don’t worry, I don’t leave them unattended). My question is, how do I get him to 'step up' on my finger if he's continually trying to get away from me in the cage, and is it possible he wants to bond with my dog rather than me? Any info would be appreciated. Thanks!

[Squawksx3]

Our Scarlet Macaw and Umbrella Cockatoo did not know how to "step up", get on our arm and perch when we first got them... this is a sign of not being properly handled like they should've been. They were both "wobbly" and would grab you with their beaks to gain balance... ouch!. We've had the Scarlet for, oh I guess about a year now...he "steps up" and sits on our arms perfectly, with great balance. The Umbrella is still having a problem, we've had him for about 7 months now, but he's getting better, he still uses his beak for balance but is "stepping up" wonderfully now. Just keep working with Shorty. If you just got him, I would go real slow with him. Try not to go into the cage after him, try to get him to come to you. Sit and softly talk to him.. let him get to know you and gain his trust first... give it time, birds work slowly. I guess its possible to bond with a dog.. but ultimately, they learn who feeds them :) . Im sure others here who have lovebirds and are familiar with them could help you out more on this. Best of luck to you and congratulations on your new feather baby!.

[dangergirl]

Thanks so much, Jan! I'll give it more time and patience. I appreciate your advice. ;)