Our Koda x Heidi litter are now three weeks old and doing fantastic. All puppies are plump, just like we love to see at this age. We have wrapped up their Early Neurological Stimulation now, but I wanted to revisit this important topic.
The benefits of Early Neurological Stimulation:
- Improved cardio vascular performance (heart rate)
- Stronger heart beats
- Stronger adrenal glands
- More tolerance to stress
- Greater resistance to disease
Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS) consists of the following:
- Tactile stimulation – holding the pup in one hand, the handler gently stimulates (tickles) the pup between the toes on any one foot using a Q-tip. It is not necessary to see that the pup is feeling the tickle. Time of stimulation 3 – 5 seconds.
- Head held erect – using both hands, the pup is held perpendicular to the ground, (straight up), so that its head is directly above its tail. This is an upwards position. Time of stimulation 3 – 5 seconds.
- Head pointed down – holding the pup firmly with both hands the head is reversed and is pointed downward so that it is pointing towards the ground. Time of stimulation 3 – 5 seconds.
- Supine position – hold the pup so that its back is resting in the palm of both hands with its muzzle facing the ceiling. The pup while on its back is allowed to sleep. Time of stimulation 3-5 seconds.
- Thermal stimulation—use a damp towel that has been cooled in a refrigerator for at least five minutes. Place the pup on the towel, feet down. Do not restrain it from moving. Time of stimulation 3-5 seconds.
Per Dr. Dr. Carmen Battaglia (Breeding Better Dogs), “Generally, genetics account for about 35% of the performance, but the remaining 65% (management, training, nutrition) can make the difference.” The first several weeks of a dog’s life is critical in shaping them into the best adult dog possible.