Anyone ever had trouble bonding with a really independent puppy?

My six month old is very, very independent. We've got a good relationship that is progressing nicely. He is having fun with OB and the beginning of Flinks Drive, Focus and Grip tape.

Here's the thing. It's hard to put into words or even try to explain. It seems as though something is missing between us. He comes, very quickly, when called. But it's a feel thing. Like he could care less weather I was there or not.

I've busted my butt to build a good bond with him. All very positive experiences, a controled environment. All the OB is motivational. Play is fun... just seems like something's missing.

Again, maybe a dumb question but I thought some of you may have experienced this before. I feel like he's going to be a pretty hard dog based on what I seeing. Very different from any other I've ever owned. Troll vh Milinda, Usha Van Guy's Hof son if bloodline info helps at all.

So anyway to my point; What can I do to deepen the bond with a very self-reliant little fella like this?

Chad -- it took until my puppy was 11-12 months old until I felt we were truly bonded.

She is still very independent (and is also quite hard) but the bond is now there and hard to put into words, but I really think we have been where you are now.

Funny thing is that the bond I now have with her is stronger than I have ever had with another dog.......it is .......hard to explain .......but as a pup she would look right through me and now she gazes at me with a depth I have not felt before.

Did not see any real pedigree similarities as the only ones we have in common in first 5 generations are Grief zum Lahntal and Afra vom Stompfbergerland (ok so I cant spell)