Socialization and Enrichment

There are three kinds of stimulation that influence how a puppy develops.  The first, as previously discussed here, is ENS or early neurological stimulation.  The second is called socialization.  To be the most effective, the ideal time for puppy socialization is between 4 and 16 weeks old.  Too much or too little socialization during this period can negatively impact the puppies development, creating fearful, anxious or shy adults.

I’ve written posts about puppy socialization in the past, and they can be found here:

Puppy Socialization

Socialization

Of course our new puppies aren’t here yet, but we have already reached out to friends in anticipation of their arrival.  We’ve asked friends to plan on visiting our puppies, to help socialize them.  And they’ve all said yes, because who doesn’t want to cuddle a collie puppy?  

The third kind of stimulation is called enrichment.  This stimulation has no time limit, as you can begin as soon as the puppies have opened their eyes and have begun to explore their environment. Enrichment  provides puppies with positive experiences.  This allows the puppies to explore and investigate the world around them while helping build their confidence.  Puppies supplied with many different forms of enrichment typically grow up to be more inquisitive and intelligent adults.

There are many forms of enrichment, and we have enjoyed creating new methods with our past litters.  I thought it would be fun to share some of the videos from when Peyton and Addi were puppies, as I don’t think I ever shared them here.  They show some of our efforts to provide socialization and enrichment.

In this video the puppy with the white on her nose and head is Peyton.

Hungry little puppies, can you spot Peyton?

Melody, now Lilac, was the only rough puppy in the litter.  This was her trying out the tunnel for the first time.

This is when we introduced some puppy play equipment.

The puppies can be seen here learning about new, loud noises as a large truck drives by the yard.

Here the puppies met a new friend!  They were definitely unsure, but curious, about the talking dragon!

This was the day we introduced the snuffle mat

And here is the first day we introduced their pool.  They quickly became fans of the pool, with the hot Summer weather we were experiencing!

I am researching new ideas to provide both socialization and enrichment for the new puppies.  I can’t wait to meet them!