Building the Foundation: Science from the Start At Duty Danes, we know that a dog’s ability to heal starts long before they begin their formal training. It begins in the whelping box when they are just days old through Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS). By performing specific, gentle exercises during a critical window of development, we […]
The Importance of Early Neurological Stimulation in Puppies
Building the Foundation: Science from the Start At Duty Danes, we know that a dog’s ability to heal starts long before they begin their formal training. It begins in the whelping box when they are just days old through Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS). By performing specific, gentle exercises during a critical window of development, we […]
Becoming a Strong Leader for Your Great Dane
The Essential Guide to Becoming a True Pack Leader The Core Philosophy of Leadership True leadership is not about intimidation, physical force, or being the loudest person in the room. For a giant breed like the Great Dane, leadership is built on a foundation of calm, assertive guidance and unwavering consistency. These dogs are highly […]
Understanding Great Dane Resource Guarding
For a Great Dane, their most valuable item is often their person and their bed. You can see the attachment when they try to push other dogs away or nudge you constantly for attention. It is a clear form of resource guarding. When I am on the bed, they will try to cover me by […]
How to Help Your Child Interact Safely with Puppies
Introducing Puppies and Children Teach children to respect your puppy’s needs by never waking them up or bothering them while they eat. Startling a sleeping puppy can lead to disorientation or an accidental bite. If the puppy jumps, children should freeze, put their hands in their armpits, and turn their backs. Avoid running, as this […]
Essential Daily Handling Exercises for Your Puppy
Daily Handling Exercises for Your Puppy It is essential to continue daily handling so your puppy stays desensitized and comfortable with touch. Always keep your puppy calm with positive praise and snuggles, and only set them down once they are fully relaxed. Never release them while they are agitated or struggling, as they must learn […]
Effective Puppy Communication Techniques
Communication and Communicating With Your Puppy Building a strong bond with your puppy starts with clear communication and firm boundaries. During the first several weeks, focus on the rule of prevent and distract rather than letting your puppy think their name is No. By managing their environment and using positive interruptions like a clap or […]
Understanding Puppy Stress Signals and Solutions
Managing Stress and Fear in Your Puppy Puppies communicate through many stress signals like trembling, avoidance, pacing, whining, and barking. Watch for physical signs such as lip-licking, yawning, panting, a tucked tail, whale eye, or growling. It is important to distinguish these from being tired; a stressed puppy yawns or licks their lips even when […]
Essential Puppy Training: 5-Week Roadmap
Comprehensive Puppy Roadmap: Weeks 1-5 Based on the “Raising the Empowered Puppy” curriculum by Jeanette Forrey I send every puppy home with a checklist based on Jeanette Forrey’s system. In my experience, you simply cannot find a better way to raise a dog. It is a “bomb-proof” system that keeps new owners on the right […]
Puppy Care Checklist for New Owners
Weekly Success Checklist: Week One Based on the curriculum by Jeanette Forrey (Badass Breeder) This schedule is designed to help you and your puppy find your rhythm during your first week together. By following these steps, you are building a foundation of trust and respect. The Golden Rule: Protect the Immune System Your puppy is […]