Socialization is a big topic when discussing raising young dogs. It is common knowledge that socialization is a key part of puppy raising. Socialization classes like our STAR Puppy Socialization Class are popular options to help those new additions rack up the kind of positive, and varied experiences that make them well rounded adult dogs.
It is less commonly known that socialization starts all the way back on Day 1 when the puppy is still with their litter. Responsible puppy raisers in both the breeding and rescue spaces know that puppies are most impressionable before 12 weeks of age, and they try to make the most of that time.
Some socialization comes in the form of general care and handling of the puppies as they grow, but there are other structured programs to help puppy raisers monopolize on this time frame too. Puppy Culture, Avidog (now on GoodDog), and Enriched Puppy Protocol are all well respected programs that lay out guidelines for introducing socialization and training concepts to baby puppies. One thing all of the programs have in common is the incorporation of Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS).
ENS was developed to improve the capabilities of military working dogs. Early Neurological Stimulation is a series of short, mild stressors applied to the puppy from day three, to day sixteen. Introducing these exercises at this age gets their brain building the right pathways to cope with and recover from stress.
Studies on the effects of ENS on litters of puppies showed the puppies that participated in Early Neurological Stimulation had 1) improved cardiovascular health, 2) stronger adrenal glands, 3) higher stress tolerance, and 4) greater resistance to disease. The puppies were more explorative and outgoing in new environments, and had better problem solving skills. Since ENS only takes a minute or two to complete, this is a very small investment for a big, lifelong return.
The exercises:
- Tactile Stimulation: Rub the bottom of each foot with a q-tip
- Head UP: Hold the puppy upright for several seconds
- Head DOWN: Hold the puppy with their head down for several seconds
- On their back: Hold the puppy like a baby for several seconds
- Thermal Stimulation: Place the puppy on a cool rag for several seconds
The Avidog program also recommends adding a novel scent to the rotation each day. Puppies will start this program before they can see or hear, but they can use their noses right away.
If you are in the market for a puppy, ask the breeder if they plan to do, or are doing ENS with the litter. You can reference our full list of criteria for a good rescue or breeder on the Breeder/Rescue Selection article of our free virtual training platform, Dog Responsibly.
We had the honor of welcoming two little Pumik boys to the Leash Free Living family this week. This is our first time whelping puppies and I am so excited to have the opportunity to start shaping these guys into confident, cooperative and mannerly dogs from the very beginning. We live streamed their first Early Neurological Stimulation session in our Leash Free Living Facebook group. It is still up if you are interested to see it in action.
Stay on the lookout for more puppy development content as we follow Dr. Pepper and Pepsi through puppy-hood.
