At Miley & Co., we believe that healthy, happy puppies start with healthy, happy mamas and daddies. That's why we prioritize the well-being and quality of our parent dogs. Our dogs have great temperaments but also undergo genetic and physical health testing, including Embark DNA testing. By ensuring our parents are in top health, we give our parent dogs the best chance at producing a litter of healthy, thriving puppies. It's a crucial step in our commitment to raising exceptional companions for your family.
At Miley & Co., our mamas receive top-notch care throughout their pregnancy. We prioritize their health with regular vet visits, a nutritious diet, and a stress-free environment. As their due date approaches, we prepare a safe and comfortable whelping area for them. During whelping, we provide attentive delivery assistance to ensure a smooth and healthy birthing process for both mom and puppies. By prioritizing our dams' well-being, we set the stage for a happy, healthy litter.
At Miley & Co., we prioritize our puppies' development from the very start. Beginning on day 3 and continuing through day 16, we implement Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS) techniques, including gentle handling in different positions and daily weigh-ins. This research-backed approach enhances cardiovascular performance, strengthens heartbeats, and promotes resilience to stress and disease. By introducing these gentle stimuli early on, we set the stage for confident, healthy puppies who are better equipped to thrive in their new homes.
At three weeks old, our puppies graduate to a more advanced curriculum inspired by the BAB book by Jeanette Forrey with 4E Kennels. We introduce a daily '10-step puppy massage' that gradually increases in pressure weekly. This gentle handling program desensitizes puppies to various touch, handling, and sensations, including eyes, nose, mouth, collar, tummy, back, tail, ears, and nail tapping. By acclimating them to these experiences early on, we prepare them for future nail trimmings, grooming sessions, teeth brushing, and more. Our gentle approach ensures a positive association, setting the tone for a lifetime of ease and confidence in handling.
At three weeks old, our puppies embark on a journey of exploration and discovery. We introduce them to a variety of sounds, sights, textures, and obstacles to climb on and run through, creating an environment that fosters confidence and problem-solving skills. Our approach is centered on empowerment, not enablement, encouraging our puppies to confront and overcome physical and mental challenges daily. By doing so, we strengthen their nerves and build resilience, setting the stage for a lifetime of adaptability and adventure. Our ultimate goal is to provide a stable and enriching environment for the first eight weeks of their lives, laying the foundation for a happy, healthy, and well-rounded life.
At 7 weeks old, we conduct a comprehensive Puppy Aptitude Test, as part of the Badass Breeder Program, to assess each puppy's unique temperament and personality traits. We evaluate 12 key characteristics to ensure that each puppy is matched with the right family, tailoring to their lifestyle, needs, and preferences. Following the test and veterinary checks, we offer guidance and share individual scorecards with families, enabling them to make informed decisions on puppy picking day. While we recommend selecting a puppy after temperament testing, we understand that some families may have a strong preference beforehand. In such cases, we welcome early commitments (if you're 1st pick), but emphasize the importance of considering the puppy's individual needs and compatibility.
We begin crate training our puppies at three weeks old, introducing them to the crate and encouraging exploration. By five weeks, we start gently acclimating them to being in the crate with the door closed, and by seven weeks, they're typically able to sleep through naps without needing to go outside . However, we want to prepare you for the possibility of some initial struggles when your new puppy arrives home. Changing environments can be unsettling, and your puppy may need time to adjust to their new space and routine. Don't worry, we're here to support you every step of the way! We'll provide guidance on how to help your puppy transition smoothly and overcome any potential setbacks.
We start potty training our puppies as early as 2 1/2 weeks old! We introduce a large potty tray to encourage their natural instinct to keep their puppy area clean. As they grow, we gradually reduce the size of the tray to help them learn to hold their bladder and bowels. By around 4 1/2 weeks, we begin taking them outside for potty breaks and they usually catch on quickly! By week 6 they are introduced to the doggy door system to be able to let themselves out if needed. Of course, there be some accidents when they transition to their new homes, but we're here to support you and offer guidance to help your puppy learn to potty outside.