Puppy Development and ESI
Giving your puppy the very best head start in life is critical! So far, we’ve discussed the six crucial stages of puppy development and the Early Neurological Stimulation (or ENS) for puppies.
In today’s puppy blog, we’ll examine the value of ESI, a simple yet impactful method (Early Scent Introduction) for young puppies between the crucial days of 3 – 16.
Early Scent Introduction (ESI) is a valuable technique to enhance a puppy’s olfactory abilities during their critical early developmental stages, particularly beneficial for working and service dogs. Created by Dr. Gayle Watkins and studied in a 7-year breeding test with Golden Retrievers, ESI is designed to:
- Improve scent detection skills.
- Boost cognitive and behavioral development in puppies.
Learn More About Dr. Watson’s ESI Studies
What is ESI and Why Is It Important?
ESI involves introducing puppies to various natural scents from days 3 – 16 (the same period for Early Neurological Stimulation). This period is crucial because it’s when puppies are most receptive to new sensory inputs, which impact their overall development.
During ESI exercises, different scents (such as herbs, spices, or other natural elements) are held in front of the puppy’s nose for about 5 seconds each day. The puppy’s reactions (positive, neutral, or negative) are then recorded to help breeders understand each puppy’s temperament and olfactory engagement (or nose awareness).
The main goal of ESI is to stimulate puppies’ olfactory senses early on to help them excel in scent-based tasks as they grow. Studies have shown dogs exposed to ESI:
- Perform better in scent detection roles.
- Display greater confidence and adaptability in new environments.
This training especially benefits dogs destined for search and rescue, therapy, or service dog work.
ESI: Three Benefits
- Enhanced Scent Detection Skills: Puppies who undergo ESI are better prepared for scent-related tasks, such as tracking or detection work. This early exposure helps them recognize and differentiate scents more effectively as they mature.
- Improved Confidence and Socialization: By exposing puppies to new and varied scents, ESI helps reduce anxiety and build resilience, making them more adaptable to changes and less likely to develop behavioral issues
- Faster Learning and Task Completion: Research indicates that puppies exposed to ESI tend to achieve milestones, such as scenting titles, up to three years earlier than those who don’t receive this training. This is especially advantageous for dogs doing field trials or service roles.
Video: Early Scent Introduction (ESI)
How to Perform ESI
Performing ESI is straightforward but requires consistency. Here’s a quick overview:
- Timing: Conduct ESI sessions once daily between days 3 – 16.
- Scents: Use a variety of natural, pungent scents, such as rosemary, lemons/or oranges, cut grass, training items, or tolerant pets (see more suggestions from Avidog below). Avoid using strong chemicals or processed foods.
- Procedure: Present the scent for about 5 seconds and observe the puppy’s response. Record whether the puppy:
-
- Moves toward the scent (a positive reaction).
- Shows no reaction (a neutral reaction).
- Withdraws from the offered odor (a negative reaction).
Demonstrating Early Scent Introduction by Magnum Opus German Shepherds
For More Information on ESI and a convenient chart to use, download the PDFs from Avidog.com. (Avidog University was founded by Dr. Gayle Watkins.)
Final Word
Incorporating ESI into a puppy’s crucial early life (days 3 – 16) can provide lifelong benefits, especially for dogs that will engage in roles requiring sharp scenting abilities. By introducing new scents early on, breeders can help foster more confident, adaptable, and skilled dogs. While it doesn’t replace regular socialization or other types of puppy training, ESI is a valuable addition that can significantly enhance a dog’s scent-related capabilities.
Cane Corso Breeding: For Us, It’s Personal!
Our “Bodyguard Litter” is Here!
Are you looking for a healthy, happy Cane Corso puppy?
Complete and submit our Puppy Inquiry Form for upcoming litters!
