Stretching Times

Dr. Michael Fox conducted a study showing mildly stressing puppies during the first five weeks develops dogs which are superior when put in learning or competitive situations. They are better able to handle stress, are more outgoing and learn more quickly. Mild physical stress at an early age will actually increase the size of the brain.

What type of stress? Taking a puppy off a nipple and moving it to another can be a stressor but in doing so, you are also introducing patience. You are starting to pave the way for the rest of their lives.

It is important at this stage to pick them up, snuggle, and touch. This introduces them to their environment in a positive way.

Mom cleans after them but we trade out their pads daily and help keep their environment clean. This way they get used to a clean environment in hopes that pad training and outside training will be easier.

I take care of mom, cleaning her tummy, brushing and grooming her and giving her all sorts of attention so she can be all she can be for the pups. It's nice to feel needed/desired and wanted. It's good for their mental health. How they feel helps them face the challenges of motherhood. All of you moms out there - I know you can relate to this.

In another week they will be opening their eyes and Nathan will be hoping they see him first. I just will celebrate another milestone - where they will start to hear and see instead of feeling and smelling only. If they see me first, well that's okay too.

We each play a special role in helping them become all they can be.

Today they are eating and sleeping very well. Sleeping an extended amount of time means their bellies are full. This is a great thing.

Puppies - well they are totally delicious - don't ya know?