Just like that, we're at 4 weeks! They're halfway to going to their forever homes. The puppies are definitely more vocal, mobile and playful. This week we worked on 10 step puppy handling otherwise known as puppy massages which includes these 10 steps which were done very gently this week and will increase in pressure each week.
1. Rub and tug on ears 2. Cover eyes 3. Open mouth and run fingers on gums 4. Rub belly in circular motions 5. Run hand down back 6. Tug and twist on tail 7. Touch all paws and push in between pads 8. Tap nails 9. Run fingers around neck and tug on collar 10. Touch their nose We do this to improve their ability to handle different types of touch, handling and sensation. We don't put them down if they are agitated or upset. If they are resistant, we stop until they calm down then resume, ending with a reward of lots of snuggles and praise. Puppies were also introduced to all kinds of sounds this week, garbage trucks, trains, older dogs barking in the house, doors opening and closing and the washer and dryer which is a daily occurrence since we launder their bedding everyday. We'll continue to introduce new sounds to them daily like babies crying, fire trucks, birds, etc. A new object was also introduced each day just so they have exposure to new things slowly. They seem to be very curious about whatever we add; it's fun to watch their interaction with the objects. Next we'll expand their area a little during the daytime so they have more room to run around and play. We'll also start incorporating them into our main living space where they can witness and be a part of the family bustle. Only two spots available for this litter of medium goldendoodles. Please fill out an application if interested and we'll be in touch. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for more frequent updates. It's been a busy week around here. Two weeks sure have flown by. The puppies are literally changing right before my eyes! Everyone is gaining beautifully with grey girl and brown boy who are the largest at just about 2 1/2 lbs and everyone else falls in just shy of 2 lbs. Harley is more comfortable spending some time out of the pen and hops in to tend to her pups as soon as she hears one calling.
Eyes are starting to open and they're beginning to attempt to get on all fours and graduate from swimming around. We should have updated individual pictures to share by the end of this weekend. We're hoping to show each pup's unique markings to give you a good idea of what each one looks like. Next week we'll start with some noise exposure and gentle handling exercises to prepare puppies for what they should expect in their new homes. We're aiming to complete temperament tests on January 7th and be able to share out the results with those on the waitlist to aid with their selection. Puppies will have their vet visit that following week prior to go home day. We have a few spots available for this litter of medium goldendoodles; please fill out an application if interested and we'll be in touch. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for more frequent updates. |
Nice to meet youI'm Mary Wells, the face behind Doodles of Snohomish. Updates will be posted here as we have news to share. We are a small in-home program breeding doodles and raising them alongside our family inside our home. Archives |