What is puppy ENS?

Enhancing Border Collie Puppies through Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS) and Puppy Culture at Willowcreek Border Collies

What is ENS?  We are often asked what it is and what it means.   As responsible breeders, we understand the importance of providing our puppies with the best possible start in life. That’s why we incorporate Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS) and Puppy Culture into our breeding program, ensuring the healthy growth and development of each puppy.

 

What is Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS)?

Early Neurological Stimulation, commonly referred to as ENS, is a series of gentle exercises designed to stimulate a puppy’s neurological system during the first few weeks of life. The concept was developed by Dr. Carmen L. Battaglia, a renowned canine researcher, and it aims to create positive neurological experiences that can have lasting effects on a puppy’s behavior and overall health.

The ENS program involves various exercises, including tactical stimulation, head-held high, supine position, thermal stimulation, and more. These exercises are performed for brief periods daily, helping puppies adapt to stress, build resilience, and develop better problem-solving abilities. The result is a more well-adjusted and confident adult dog.

 

Puppy Culture: A Comprehensive Approach to Early Development

In addition to ENS, Willowcreek Border Collies proudly incorporates the Puppy Culture program into our breeding practices. Puppy Culture is a comprehensive system that focuses on the critical early developmental stages of a puppy’s life. This program goes beyond basic socialization and addresses key milestones, ensuring that each puppy receives the necessary exposure, training, and enrichment to become a well-rounded and confident adult dog.

 

Key Components of Puppy Culture:

1. Early Socialization: Puppy Culture emphasizes positive exposure to various stimuli, people, and environments during the critical socialization period. This helps prevent fear and anxiety, resulting in a more sociable and adaptable adult dog.
2. Problem-Solving Skills: Through carefully designed activities and challenges, Puppy Culture encourages puppies to develop problem-solving skills. This not only enhances their cognitive abilities but also fosters a sense of confidence and curiosity.
3. Positive Reinforcement Training: Positive reinforcement is a cornerstone of Puppy Culture, promoting desirable behaviors through rewards and praise. This approach helps create a strong bond between the puppy and its new family while fostering a positive learning environment.

 

Willowcreek Border Collies believes in providing our puppies with a solid foundation for a fulfilling life. By incorporating Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS) and Puppy Culture into our breeding program, we strive to produce well-adjusted, confident, and socially adept Border Collies. Our commitment to early puppy development ensures that your new family member is equipped with the skills and resilience needed to thrive in various environments and build a strong, lifelong bond with their human companions.