​Dogs, famous for their keen sense of smell, possess olfactory abilities that are vastly superior to those of humans. Their noses play a pivotal role in how they perceive and engage with the world. One method to harness this incredible capacity, while also contributing to a dog’s overall wellbeing and development, is through Early Scent Introduction (ESI).

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To introduce my puppies to Early Scent Introduction (ESI), I begin the process at three days of age and continue through to day sixteen. The current scents include a range of items such as soil, bark, wood shavings, lavender, scented tea bags, leather and safe herbs. This selection is flexible and may vary from litter to litter.

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Each day, a new scent is presented. I gently pick up the puppy or sit with them in my lap, securely holding them with one hand to prevent them from squirming away. With the other hand, I bring the scent-bearing item approximately one inch from the puppy’s nose. If the puppy shows interest and moves toward the scent, I allow it. If they pull away, that response is respected as well. If the puppy actively engages with the scent, exposure lasts for 30 seconds. Reactions are recorded as positive, neutral, or negative. This process is repeated with each puppy in the litter.

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Neurological Development and the Critical Window

During the first few weeks of a dog’s life, its brain undergoes rapid development. This period, often referred to as the “critical window,” is a prime time for puppies to learn and adapt to various stimuli.

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Introducing varied scents during this phase can influence a dog’s neural pathways, making them more adept at processing and reacting to different smells throughout their lives.

 

Benefits of Early Scent Introduction

• Enhanced Cognitive Abilities: Just as early childhood experiences shape human brain development, ESI helps in the cognitive growth of dogs. Regular exposure to new scents stimulates their brains, which may result in enhanced problem-solving abilities and adaptability in unfamiliar environments.

• Temperament and Confidence Building: Dogs introduced to a diverse array of smells from a young age are often more confident and less fearful in unfamiliar situations. This can reduce stress-related behaviours and make them more resilient to changing environments.

• Preparation for Specialised Roles: Dogs trained for specific jobs, whether in search and rescue, police work, or service roles, benefit immensely from ESI. An early introduction to various scents can lay the foundation for their specialised training, making them more efficient and adept in their respective roles.

• Improved Socialisation: Exposure to diverse scents, especially those associated with humans (e.g., perfumes, lotions), other animals, or different environments, can enhance a dog’s social skills. This can be particularly useful for ensuring that dogs are well-adjusted and non-aggressive in multi-pet households or public places.

 

Early Scent Introduction, while a simple process, can have profound and lasting effects on a dog’s life. By leveraging the critical developmental window and a dog’s inherent olfactory capabilities, ESI fosters cognitive growth, confidence, and adaptability.

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Whether preparing a puppy for a specialised role or merely aiming for a well-adjusted family pet, the practice of ESI stands as a testament to the intricate bond between sensory experiences and overall well-being in dogs.

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EARLY NEUTROLOGICAL STIMULATION

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For over 2 decades now, I have conducted Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS) exercises once daily from the 3rd to the 16th days. This period is believed to be a time of rapid neurological growth and development.

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The US Military developed this method designed to improve the performance of future military working dogs, according to the Breeding Better Dogs program developed by Dr. Carmen Battaglia, esteemed breeder, judge, seminar presenter, and AKC board member.

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ENS requires handling the puppies one at a time while performing a series of five exercises. Listed in order of preference, the handler starts with one pup and stimulates it using each of the five exercises. The handler completes the series from beginning to end before starting with the next pup.

 

The handling of each pup once per day involves the following exercises:

 

1. Tactile stimulation  Holding the pup in one hand, the handler gently stimulates (tickles) the pup between the toes on any one foot using a cotton bud. It is not necessary to see that the pup is feeling the tickle. Time of stimulation 3 – 5 seconds.

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2. Head held erect   Using both hands, the pup is held perpendicular to the ground, (straight up), so that its head is directly above its tail. This is an upwards position. Time of stimulation 3 – 5 seconds.

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3. Head pointed down   Holding the pup firmly with both hands the head is reversed and is pointed downward so that it is pointing towards the ground. Time of stimulation 3 – 5 seconds.

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4. Supine position  Hold the pup so that its back is resting in the palm of both hands with its muzzle facing the ceiling. The pup while on its back is allowed to sleep. Time of stimulation 3-5 seconds.

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5. Thermal stimulation  Use a damp towel that has been cooled in a refrigerator for at least five minutes. Place the pup on the towel, feet down. Do not restrain it from moving. Time of stimulation 3-5 seconds.
 

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