Early Neurological Stimulation
Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS) is a method that consists of different body handling exercises that should be done on puppies aged 3 to 16 days, once a day. The exercises introduce mild forms of stress to the puppy for only 3 to 5 seconds per exercise. The US Military developed this method to improve the performance of future military working dogs. ENS allows a pup to be slowly desensitized with small doses to stimuli, which can make them more resilient and easy-going. Studies have shown that ENS can lead to less fear, decreased cortisol production, enhanced learning, and resistance to stress in young animals. ENS can accelerate brain development and improve performance in puppies.
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This includes:
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Tactile stimulation: gently tickling the puppy's toes with a finger
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Head held up: holding the puppy's head up above its body
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Head pointed down: holding the puppy's head down below its body
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Supine position: holding the puppy on its back
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Thermal stimulation: placing the puppy's belly on a cool towel
We go a step further, working in a Veterinary Office, it is sad to me when pups come in for the first time and are scared having their feet, ears or teeth checked. So, in addition to ENS - we also touch nose, lips, toes, ears, feet, belly & tail daily to prepare them for their first vet visit.
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In our experience, it is important to expose the pups to as much stimulation as possible.
Temperament Testing in Standard Poodles
Volhard Temperament Testing is a widely used method for evaluating a puppy’s temperament at 7 weeks old, helping breeders and owners understand personality traits, predict future behavior, and match puppies with the right homes. How the Volhard Test Works The test consists of 10 exercises, each designed to assess a different aspect of temperament. Puppies receive scores (1–6) based on their reactions.
1. Social Attraction – Measures confidence and desire for human interaction.
2. Following – Assesses willingness to follow a person.
3. Restraint – Evaluates response to mild stress when held on their back.
4. Social Dominance – Measures response to handling and touch.
5. Elevation Dominance – Tests reaction to being held off the ground.
6. Retrieving – Assesses willingness to fetch an object.
7. Touch Sensitivity – Tests reaction to mild pressure (e.g., between toes).
8. Sound Sensitivity – Evaluates response to sudden noise (e.g., metal pan dropping).
9. Sight Sensitivity – Measures reaction to a moving object.
10. Stability – Tests confidence when faced with an unusual object.
Each score correlates to a personality type:
• Mostly 1s – Very dominant, best suited for experienced handlers.
• Mostly 2s – Confident and outgoing, can be strong-willed.
• Mostly 3s – Balanced temperament, good for most homes.
• Mostly 4s – Easygoing and gentle, great for therapy or service work.
• Mostly 5s – Shy and sensitive, needs patient training.
• Mostly 6s – Independent and uninterested in human interaction.
Why Volhard Testing Is Important in Matching Puppies to the Right Homes – Testing insures families get a puppy that suits their lifestyle and experience level. Identifying Therapy & Service Dog Potential – Puppies scoring in the 3–4 range often have the temperament for therapy, service, or emotional support work. Tailoring Training & Socialization – Helps owners understand their puppy’s learning style and needs. Early Behavior Intervention – Identifies traits like dominance or fearfulness, allowing for early training to shape a well-balanced dog.
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Our testing is done by a very skilled evaluator that used to breed & train service dogs. Because Health and Temperament are of the focuses of our program, and as such - most of our puppies will score in the 3-4 range. You will get a copy of your pups test results.
Since many of our pups go on to become emotional, therapy or service dogs, this testing helps select those best suited for that role. Our commitment to evaluating temperament ensures that each puppy thrives in the right environment!
Standard Poodle Puppy Socialization
Puppy socialization is critical for developing a well-adjusted, confident adult dog. The key socialization periods are:
Neonatal Period (0 - 2 weeks)
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Puppies are blind, deaf, and dependent on their mother.
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They rely on touch and scent to navigate.
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Handling by humans for short periods can promote resilience and bonding.
Transitional Period (2 - 4 weeks)
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Eyes and ears open; puppies become more aware of their surroundings.
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Begin to interact with littermates, learning early social skills.
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First signs of play and tail wagging appear.
Critical Socialization Period (3 - 16 weeks)
These are the most important phases for shaping temperament and behavior.
3 - 5 weeks
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Puppies start exploring more, playing, and learning bite inhibition.
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Exposure to gentle human handling and different textures, sounds, and mild stressors is beneficial.
5 - 7 weeks
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Puppies learn social cues from littermates and mother.
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Early exposure to various human voices, surfaces, and environments helps build confidence.
7 - 9 weeks
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Critical fear period begins (around 8 weeks).
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Positive reinforcement, safe socialization experiences, and training should start immediately.
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Introducing car rides, different people, and mild grooming can help future adaptability.
9 - 12 weeks
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Puppies become more independent and curious.
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Ideal time for structured training, crate training, and meeting well-mannered dogs.
12 - 16 weeks
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Second fear period may occur, making positive reinforcement crucial.
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Continued exposure to new experiences, such as vet visits, different environments, and polite interactions with strangers, helps prevent fear-based behavior.
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Be sure to have them signed up for professional training as soon as they get their rabies
Juvenile Period (4 - 6 months)
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Confidence grows, but testing boundaries begins.
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Consistent training and continued exposure to positive experiences
When should my puppy have their first vet visit?
All puppies need routine veterinary care to ensure they grow up into healthy adult dogs. Though if you’re a new dog parent, knowing when to actually schedule your puppy’s first checkup can be challenging. But don’t worry — we’re here to provide some clarity.
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We suggest. trying to make your new pups appointment within the first week of coming to your home. Ideally within 3 days, but now days that doesn't always work with the Veterinary schedules. Unless your pup has had all its puppy series of vaccines and its rabies vaccine - we suggest carrying the pup, or keeping it in a carrier for the protection of your pup. Unfortunately, not only well dogs go to the vet - and we wouldn't want you new furry family member to catch something while at the vet.
Here is an article that will help you prepare for this first Veterinary visit: Preparing for your Puppy's first vet visit
