Early Neurological Stimulation
From day 3-16 healthy, stress free puppies are provided Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS), also known as the "Super Dog Program". By providing small stresses we can help to "jump start" a puppy's neurological system.
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Benefits of ENS:
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stronger heartbeat and heart rate
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greater resistance to stress
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stronger adrenal system
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stronger immune system
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greater endurance
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By using the ENS protocol, you can change the puppy for the rest of it's life!
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Weeks 3-4: Socialization Period
Socialization
"What does it take to socialize a puppy? Socialization is more than just exposure – it’s a rich blend of skills, positive experiences, and enrichment.”
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Weaning Pen
This week we move the puppies into a larger area called the weaning pen.​ This is where they will stay until they move to their new homes. The weaning pen is kept in the middle of our house so the pups will experience all of the normal household sounds.
Startle Recovery Exercises
During this time, we begin to introduce puppies to startling sounds. This will begin to prime the puppy's startle reflex. The puppies will be introduced to loud household appliance sounds such as a vacuum, a garbage disposal, and air condition.
Classical Music
As soon as the puppy's ears are open, we begin to play classical music in the whelping room. Studies show that dogs in a kennel who listened to 45 minutes of classical music:
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spent more time sleeping
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shook less
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barked less
Supervised Play
Pups are also let out of their pen for supervised play in other safe areas of our home - the kitchen, living room and the yard on a nice day.
Potty Training
We also start our potty training protocol this week by taking advantage of the pups natural instinct to move away from where they sleep to pee and poop. When we start this early, potty training is MUCH easier on us and on the pups new families.