The Foundation: Early Imprinting and Senses

I use the same imprinting techniques I learned from working with horses to desensitize my puppies from the start. From days 3 to 16, I perform five specific exercises once a day, including head up, head down, and using a cool cloth to build a stronger heart and better stress resilience.

I also start Early Scent Introduction. Each day, I introduce a new household scent, like lavender or mint, to see how they respond. This wakes up their senses and helps them learn to process new information from the world around them.

To get them ready for a lifetime of grooming and vet visits, I handle them completely every day. I weigh them and tap on their toes like I am trimming nails. I make sure they are messed with in all the right ways rubbing the tips of their ears, touching their gums, and handling them until they are completely comfortable with any kind of touch.

Phase Two: The Puppy Curriculum

Once they are a little older, we start Puppy School. I use a daily curriculum to make sure they are exposed to everything the world has to offer. This includes:

Sound Desensitization: I play various sounds to get them used to the unexpected. They listen to 80s music during the day to keep them upbeat and classical music at night to help them settle.

Confidence Building: At feeding time, I bang a spoon on the pan. This teaches them that loud, sudden noises are nothing to fear and actually lead to something good like food.

Novel Objects: Every day, I introduce something new to their environment. It might be a new toy, different materials, or even a watermelon to investigate.

Real World Exposure: After they have their shots, we explore the world. They experience different surfaces like grass and dirt, visit the pond, and meet other animals like chickens. They even get to watch the Amish buggies and horses go by.

Socialization and the Play Yard

I believe that the older dogs and Mama are some of the best teachers for boundaries. I introduce the puppies to my adult dogs so they can learn natural manners. They also meet our cats and see themselves in mirrors.

In the play yard, I watch them closely. If a puppy is unsure about something, I stay with them and work on it until they feel brave. I use a special ramp with rock climbing grips to teach them how to climb and build balance. I even have different pools for them one filled with water to get them used to splashing and one filled with sand so they can learn to dig in a safe spot.

Extended Training for Puppies Staying Longer

For the puppies that stay with me a bit longer, the education continues. While many go to their new homes early, those still in my care start working on the doggie door and crate training. I also begin practicing with the leash and teaching basic obedience commands. No matter how long a puppy is with me, I am working with them every single day until they reach your arms.

The Owner Role

While I put in all of this hard work to give my puppies the best possible start, it is important to remember that this is just the foundation. For a puppy to truly become the best adult dog they can be, the new owners must follow through. Socialization and training are lifelong commitments. I give you the tools and a confident puppy, but continuing that work at home is what ensures they stay bombproof for life.