Hi Jane, welcome to the forum. As tempting as it is to smother your new little baby with attention, I think its really vital to get them used to being away from you. You never know whats round the corner which may involve you leaving him on his own for a few hours and this will be quite distressing for him if he has never had to occupy/settle himself before. I would say to begin with when you're at home start off slowly - go out of the room for a few minutes (as long as theres nothing really dangerous lying around) and soon return so he knows when he is away from you, theres no need to worry as you will soon be back. when you come back in the room dont make a big fuss of him as you will be affirming the idea that he had to worry while he was alone. Give him a gentle pat and carry on as usual so he knows its no big deal. Gradually increase time you are away from him. Give him things to do while you are out of the room... fill kongs with tasty treats, leave him with a favourite safe toy that he can play with and explore on his own. This should encourage him to learn to accept his own company. When he is beginning to tire, say after a long walk, try and leave the room for a little longer. Is he crate trained? He will soon settle down on his own.

One important thing about this training is to NEVER walk back into the room when he is whining. This is reinforcing his whining - he will learn that if he cries you come back. Thats what I think is happening in the shop, he whines and whines and in the end you go and comfort him. Dont respond to him - when he has been quiet for a few moments then go over and praise him calmly.

Hope this helps, sorry to have gone on and on!!!

__________________