Our last blog post was dedicated to the six crucial stages of puppy development. Today, we’ll examine puppies’ early neurological stimulation (ENS) and why it matters.
Puppies and Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS): Why It Matters
If you’ve ever wondered how to give your puppy the best start in life, you’re not alone. Puppy parents want to ensure their new furry family member grows up happy, healthy, and well-adjusted for their world.
One way to help with that is through Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS). (Source: Purdue University, Veterinary Medicine) Don’t let the fancy name scare you – it’s simply a method of introducing puppies to mild and short-term stressors early in life, which can benefit their overall development, including:
- Enhancing the puppy’s physical and mental development.
- Improving their immune system.
- Increasing their ability to properly cope with stressors.
So, what is ENS, why is it essential and how does it work?
What is Early Neurological Stimulation?
Early Neurological Stimulation is a series of gentle exercises for puppies (Source: PupstartsBreeders.com) during the first three to 16 days of their life (the “neonatal period”). These exercises introduce mild stressors to help stimulate their nervous system during a critical developmental period. Small amounts of stress – early on – can make puppies healthier, stronger, and better equipped to handle challenges later in their life. (Source: ScienceDirect.com)
Why is ENS Important?
Just like human babies, puppies’ brains grow and change rapidly during their first few weeks. This period is critical for their physical and mental development. By exposing puppies to controlled, positive, and short-term stressors, ENS helps them develop resilience and adaptability.
This early stimulation can lead to a range of benefits, including:
- Improved cardiovascular performance or heart health.
- Stronger immune system making them less prone to illness.
- Greater stress tolerance helping them stay calm in new or stressful situations.
- Better problem-solving abilities making training easier.
-
Enhanced physical strength and coordination.
How Does ENS Work?
ENS involves five simple exercises, each lasting just a few seconds, done once daily. These exercises include handling the puppy and providing small amounts of stimulation (just 3-5 seconds).
- Tactile Stimulation: Gently tickle the puppy’s toes with a cotton swab for 3-5 seconds.
- Head Held Up: Hold the puppy upright so their head faces the ceiling for 3-5 seconds.
- Head Held Down: Hold the puppy upside down with their head pointing toward the floor for 3-5 seconds.
- Supine Position: Hold the puppy on their back in your hands for 3-5 seconds.
- Thermal Stimulation: Place the puppy on a cool surface, like a damp towel, for 3-5 seconds.
CAUTION: These exercises are not meant to be stressful or harmful; they should be brief and gentle enough to activate the puppy’s neurological system without overwhelming them.
For puppies who will be trained for Tracking and Scent Work, Early Scent Introduction (ESI) can be used along with the ENS exercises during the same period of time.
Benefits of ENS for Puppies and Owners
The benefits of ENS extend beyond physical health. Puppies that undergo ENS are often more confident and adaptable. They tend to be less fearful of new environments and noises, making them easier to train and better suited to busy households.
For dog owners, this means a smoother transition as your puppy grows and encounters new experiences. Whether it’s the vacuum cleaner, car rides, or meeting new people or other animals, ENS helps puppies easily handle life’s little surprises.
The Final Word
ENS is a widely respected practice. If you’re curious and want to dive deeper into the science behind ENS, check out these resources:
- American Kennel Club (AKC) on Early Neurological Stimulation
Breeding Better Dogs: Dr. Carmen Battaglia on ENS - By using Early Neurological Stimulation, breeders and pet parents can give their puppies a head start, helping them grow into healthier, happier, more confident and adaptable adults.
It’s a simple, yet powerful, way to set your puppy up for success!
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