A Solid Foundation
At PEERLESS, we take great pride in the depth and quality of the training and socialization our puppies receive from the very beginning. During the first 16 days of life, we implement Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS) for improved cardiovascular performance, stronger heartbeats, healthier adrenal function, greater stress tolerance, and increased resistance to disease. Around week three, once puppies are toddling, we add structured daily handling, introduce litter box training, and provide a new experience each day. We also incorporate short, positive periods of individual attention away from littermates to help reduce the risk of separation anxiety.
From there, we follow a comprehensive sound‑conditioning program that includes classical music, television sounds, quiet nighttime routines, and startle‑recovery exercises to build resilience and help puppies learn to recover quickly from brief, surprising noises. We then introduce clicker training, a variety of everyday sounds (such as vacuums, lawn mowers, and fireworks), and “manding,” a technique in which puppies learn to politely request what they want. In our litters, this means learning to sit for food, affection, and other rewards. Our goal is for our puppies to develop excellent manners and to choose sitting calmly rather than jumping for attention.
As they enter their second month, we expand their education to include leash training, crate training, introductions to new people and friendly, vaccinated dogs, car rides, and extensive body handling (ears, tail area, paws). We also begin housebreaking. We place particular emphasis on nail care, helping puppies become comfortable with nail trimming and nail grinders, as this can be stressful for many dogs. By 10 weeks of age, our puppies are confident, well‑mannered, and well‑prepared to adapt to new homes and experiences. They are comfortable wearing a collar, walking on a leash, meeting new people, and encountering new environments. The difference between a PEERLESS puppy and one with minimal training or socialization is truly remarkable.
All of our puppies go home with at least their first round of vaccinations, deworming, microchipping, one month of complimentary health insurance, crate training and potty pad/litter box training, and a solid start on leash training and basic commands. We strongly encourage all families to continue building on their puppy’s solid foundation through beginner puppy classes and ongoing, appropriate socialization. To support this, we are proud to offer a one‑of‑a‑kind program that covers the cost of your puppy’s first training class!
Next litter will be early 2027
Check back around the end of the year holidays to see our announcement for Estelle's upcoming litter.
The Importance of Early Socialization
Veterinary behavior guidelines no longer recommend waiting until puppies are fully vaccinated before beginning a puppy class. The window for critical early socialization is very short, and the risk of developing serious behavior problems from inadequate socialization far outweighs the risk of illness when classes are conducted with puppies of similar age and vaccination status. For this reason, puppy classes should begin as soon as possible.
“The primary and most important time for puppy socialization is the first three months of life. During this time, puppies should be exposed to as many new people, animals, stimuli, and environments as can be achieved safely and without causing over‑stimulation manifested as excessive fear, withdrawal, or avoidance behavior. For this reason, the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior believes that it should be the standard of care for puppies to receive such socialization before they are fully vaccinated.”
A lack of proper socialization at this young age can lead to a range of undesirable behaviors, including fear and aggression. Behavior problems are the leading reason families ultimately part with their pets. We encourage our puppy families to be proactive and to continue the training and early socialization that we have already carefully begun for your puppy.
Participating in a puppy class is not only a wonderful way to strengthen your bond with your dog, but also an important step in helping them grow into a happy, well‑adjusted, and well‑mannered adult you can confidently take anywhere.