There are many differing methods of puppy rearing. I whelp and raise my pups inside until 3 or 4 weeks. Then they spend days in the catio, with an ever expanding pen outside. By 6 weeks they have access to be outside full time.
Beginning with Ophelia's litter in the fall, I am adding Puppy Culture and early nerve stimulation to my puppy protocols. Please see the link below for more information on ENS.
At 4 weeks we begin weekly car rides. If you have ever tried loading an unwilling 100 lb dog into the car, you will appreciate the introduction to car rides and self loading we give our pups.
As livestock guardians, the pups spend time with our goats, turkeys and chickens. As our best ambassadors, the bucks give the pups their introduction to livestock. At first the pups are side by side with the goats, and when they are moved in with them they are always supervised by one or two adults.
When placing puppies in their new homes there are many things I take into consideration. I have detailed conversations with the families to see what role the puppy will play, from guardian to companion. I primarily evaluate the puppy's temperment. I find this to be the most important characteristic in puppy placement. Behind that are conformation, sex, and color. I then offer suitable choices to each family.
For more information on ENS please use the link below.