Puppy Curriculum
ENS & ESI
Five tiny exercises and one new scent a day, during the two weeks when a puppy's nervous system is most open to it.
Why it matters
Early Neurological Stimulation was developed in the U.S. military's 'Bio Sensor' program. Between days 3 and 16, brief, mild stressors improve heart rate, stress tolerance and disease resistance for life. Each exercise lasts three to five seconds, once a day.
Early Scent Introduction, from Avidog, presents one novel scent per day — grass, leather, lavender, a tennis ball — building a puppy's confidence with the world through its strongest sense.
In practice
The daily protocol
Tactile stimulation
A cotton swab between the toes for 3–5 seconds.
Head held erect
Puppy held upright, perpendicular to the ground.
Head pointed down
Held gently with the head toward the floor.
Supine position
Resting on their back in our palms.
Thermal stimulation
Paws on a cool, damp towel for 3–5 seconds.
One new scent
Presented for a few seconds; we note curiosity, neutrality or avoidance.
What it means for you
At home with your puppy
Steadier nerves
ENS puppies recover faster from startle and stress as adults.
Better health
Studies show stronger heartbeats, adrenal function and immune response.
Nose-first confidence
ESI puppies explore new places by sniffing, not shrinking.
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