Welcome to our Puppy Journals!

The work we do with each of our litters is quite extensive. It begins the day mamma becomes pregnant and continues long after puppies transition to their new homes.

We are constantly conducting research and educating ourselves so that we can provide puppies with the best life possible.

The First 12 Weeks: A Game Changer

Did you know that the first 12 weeks of a puppy's life are the most important in determining what type of adult the puppy will become? The socialization that a puppy receives in the first 12 weeks will alter the chemistry in his/her brain forever! The instruction literally becomes PART of the puppy.

As breeders, we know we have a small window of opportunity to give you the best puppy possible, so we take this time very seriously. We ascribe to two primary puppy curriculums: Puppy Culture & Bad Ass Breeders. These curriculums give us the tools to develop each puppy's neurological, emotional, and physical health. We are determined to make every second count so that the puppy can live up to its fullest potential and have the happiest life possible!

After the 12 week window of socialization, the puppies will then transition to the "training" period. While we are not certified dog trainers, we can offer suggestions and advice based on our personal experience.

Enjoy the Journey with Us!

Please read through each of the journal posts below to learn about all the work we do with our puppies! Be sure to follow us on Instagram for additional content @desert.bloom.doodles

It Starts in the Womb

Our work with the puppies' dispositions begins long before they are even born!

The way mamma is treated during her pregnancy can affect the ultimate personality of her puppies.

Puppies from stressed mothers can have more difficulty recovering from stress as adults, and they can have decreased learning and memory compared to puppies that come from non-stressed mothers. So, our first priority is to always make sure mamma is relaxed, well fed, and comfortable!

Research also shows that a mamma who is consistently caressed (they love those belly rubs!) and shown affection throughout her pregnancy will give birth to more docile puppies, and those puppies are more likely to be receptive to human touch as adults than puppies whose mother did not receive prenatal affection.

Overall, puppies' predisposition to form deep and meaningful relationships begins BEFORE they are even born!

Rest assured, we give our mammas lots and lots of love, belly rubs, and attention!

Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS)

From days three to 16 of the puppies' lives, we work on Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS). This is the time that the puppies' neurological system is forming, and research shows that we can positively influence the way it forms by incorporating slight stressors. Stimulating the neurological system during this window of time can change the puppy for the rest of its life!

What are the long-term results?

1. Greater tolerance to stress in the future

2. Greater tolerance to disease (healthy mind = healthy body)

3. Faster adrenal system

4. Stronger heart rate

5. Stronger heart beat

Puppies are never put through ENS protocols if they are already experiencing stress from their environment. But, if the puppy is healthy and thriving, research shows that ENS can help the puppy remain healthy and continue to thrive well into its adult years!