Apple's Cockapoo puppies
CHC Families Only
On this page I'll be sharing with you a bit more about the 8 weeks we have raising your pup!
I'll share pictures and videos from our day - to include enrichment protocols and puppy curriculum (EPP / Puppy Culture) we use to raise happy, confident, stable, well-loved, well-adjusted, enrichment seeking pups.
Many breeders claim to use science-based curriculum and protocols (Puppy Culture, BAB) as well as ENS but not many actually do. That is why I will be sharing here, with you (transparency).
"The proof is in the puppies". ~ Jane Lindquist (Puppy Culture).
"What we do or do not do as breeders sets that dog up for a life of success". ~ Suzanne Clothier (Relationship Centered Training).
Big Kids at play, May 2
Love the view from my window, as the boys continue to work on their spelling sheets and math.
The pups are now having short times of play and potty outside by "themselves" (safely enclosed in their puppy gazebo of course).
We work to increase the time as the pups learn that while we are here - and we love them - we can't do everything for them (and that includes be with them all the time).
It's neat to watch as some pups look toward the door like "she's just kidding, right - she'll be right back" and others are like "party, moms gone".
Keeping it short in duration, reasuures those who might be concerned at our departure and we return before the party animals get into too much mischief.
Taking the fun outside, may 1
April has been a wet month around here, and May too! As soon as there was a break in the weather, out we went for the pups to continue learning about the world around them - through play. Rocks, new smells, other dogs (Moon and Maple were a hit), raised doggie bed (to climb over and under), a play gym with slide (to go around and through).
We continue to encourage but are mindful not to do for the pups. Letting them problem-solve in a safe and supportive environment is crucial.
Fun was had by all, and Apple's pups had group play with Eevee's litter.
Exposure activities, april 26
Still in the "Socialization Period" we continue to work with Apple's pups on new experiences - spaces, textures, smells, sounds, etc. Pups must learn to work and problem solve. Our goal is to ensure all activities are positive and fun!
We enjoy sitting, holding, snuggling and encouraging them to check things out - knowing that the love and time we pour into them now will help shape and mold them - and is beneficial for them and for us. ❤️🐾💙
Yummie! The pups get slurry in addition to momma's milk. We blend formula, puppy kibble and sprinkle lamb mixers on top. As you can see (in the last video below) they really like it!
New Pen Set Up, April 21
Apple's pups are now in the "Socialization Period" (starts at approximately 4 weeks, 28 days and continues until pups are 12 weeks old). A lot goes on during this period to make sure we are raising enriched puppies, equipped to take on the world around them.
We begin having more playtime outside of their whelping box, and the pups move into a larger "living space", we call their puppy pen.
During this period, our goal is to engage, stimulate, and put our pups in different situations. This includes exposing them to a variety of tactile (footing) options, situations, shapes, sizes, and movement - to help build their confidence and encourage them to believe in their own abilities.
Today, their puppy pen (after being cleaned) got new toys - bedding - things to walk on, move, bite and feel. We talk them through it, and often one of the boys will climb in to show them they are safe - we are here - they can explore, we are with them.
After checking out their new digs, the pups were ready for a nap. Photo shoots and new spaces sure do tucker them out.
Whelping Box Novelty, April 17
Part of our puppy curriculum is "whelping box novelty". When the pups are 3 weeks of age (days 21-27), we place an object (unassuming and gentle) in the whelping box and let the pups explore this novel item at their own leisure. It can be anything - paper towel roll, pumpkin, block of wood. If the pups show stress to the new item (change in their environment), we pick them up and hold them close to our heart. As long as the litter is not experiencing any stress during the exposure activity, we remove the novelty item(s) once the pups have all gone to sleep or lost interest.
The most important factor with any "novel" experience for pups, is to listen to them (watch their behaviors and body language) and work them accordingly. We remain attentive to the needs of the individual pup , honoring their individual development.
As you can see in this video, Apple's pups had no issues with today's "whelping box novelty" and enjoyed sniffing about and exploring the q-tip package and empty soap dispenser.