We are Greenwood Park Labradoodles believe that what we do here with our puppies in the first few weeks of life has a great impact of the future health, temperament, and abilty to fit well into family life.  According to animal behavior research there are a number of experiences and stimuli that work to ensure a puppies recieve a solid foundation on which to achieve their fullest potential as your new family member.  Following is a brief explanation of the time line of the puppy's life and what we can do at each developmental milestone to provide our puppies with exposure and stimulation they need to ensure the very best start in life.

Prenatal Period:  Before puppies are born
Research has shown that a litter is more docile when the mother dog is petted.  It has a calming effect on the offspring she is carrying.  A low stress environment for the pregnant mother has shown to produce puppies that are more emotionally balanced.
Our dogs live with us in our home and recieve this type calm, loving attention all the time.

Neonatal Period:  1-12 days old
At this age, puppies eyes and ears are not yet fully open and functioning.  At this time the best place for puppies is in their whelping box with their mother and litter mates in what we call "the puppy pile".  At this early stage of life, the whelping box is in my bedroom so that I can be with them at all times. 
Immeadiately after birth, puppies are formally evaluated  using the "vigor of life test". This gives us lots of information about each puppy and their specific needs. 
Also in the first few days of life we begin with early neurological stimulation exercises daily.  This helps give the puppy's neurological system a head start by improving cardiovascular health, stronger adrenal glands,  more disease resistance, and better tolerance to stress.  We also provide mild physical stress through various methods in order to help puppies develop.  Studies show that puppies that are mildly stressed during their first few weeks of life have a greater capacity for learning, are more confident, and are better able to handle stress.

Transitional Period