Did you know that the most critical socializing period is the first 4 months of a dogs life? Puppy socialization starts day 1 with neonatal handling by the breeder. The science behind what handling alone does for their brain development is amazing!
Here at Salt of the Earth Dachshunds we believe that socialization is a key component in raising puppies correctly. It is important for us as breeders to build a solid foundation for each puppy that will benefit them the rest of their lives. We produce well-rounded puppies by consistently implementing early socialization and desensitization.
We start day 1 of life with handling. The puppies are gently handled multiple times daily, as tolerated, until they leave for their new homes.
Day 3 through day 16 of life is a period of rapid brain growth and development. During these specific days we add in ENS (Early Neurological Stimulation) and ESI (Early Scent Introduction) once a day. ENS not only helps with socialization by introducing puppies one at a time to 5 different stressors for 3 to 5 seconds each, but it also improves their heart and adrenal gland function as well as their immune systems. Puppies have limited mobility and do not have sense of sight until close to 2 weeks old, so ESI helps them to become more aware, alert, and confident in the world around them through scent.
From day 17 until going home at 10 weeks old we will be gradually and incrementally socializing the puppies to common household experiences. Things like other animals within our household (dogs, cats, birds), different textures, stairs, ramps, wobbly surfaces, dark spaces, etc. We will also be working on desensitizing them to things that might startle them and loud constant noises like something falling to the ground, thunder, fireworks, the vacuum, hair dryer, and so much more.
Socialization doesn't stop here though, it is so important that puppies continue proper socialization when they go home with their new families! We provide a socialization checklist in our puppy packs and breeder support along the way if needed.
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