PUPPY PLAYGROUND
We firmly believe that how puppies are raised during that ultra- formative period up to 8 weeks of age contributes heavily to what they become as adults. We strive to ensure all of our puppies are stimulated mentally every day; spending 8 weeks in a whelping box or cage does NOT lend itself to well- developed dogs.
Most breeders handle their puppies regularly and introduce them to outside stimuli such as children; at River Runts- we go further.
Whelping Box
The first 3-4 weeks of every puppies lives are pretty much a snooze fest- sleep, poop, eat, repeat. The whelping box is, quite literally, their entire world; eyes don't open until around the 2 week mark, and they're mostly immobile for another couple of weeks after that. During this period, they need a safe, secure area. We decided to purchase a properly sized whelping box, rather than going the cardboard or wooden box route. It's MUCH easier to keep clean, which is critical at this point. It also has what's known as a "pig rail"- which functions as a blockade to Mom's big body squashing a tiny puppy against the side of the whelping box. Add in a waterproof bottom pad, a heat lamp and an electric blanket and these tiny little guys are both safe and comfortable. On top of that, the doorway can be adjusted to ensure Mom can get in and out, but puppies are kept secure.
The Playground
After about the fourth week, the puppies are up, mobile, curious and troublesome. Everything goes into their mouth- it's their #1 source of tactile information. It's one thing to give them a few toys- our playground gives them something that can literally keep them interested for hours (if they can stay awake...).
The Ball Pit is well used by all- it helps the more timid puppies gain a measure of bravery. The balance board gives them all confidence on any surface, and they LOVE it- they seem to enjoy playing "King of the Balance Board"; Kings are usually rapidly de-throned by the mob.
The tunnel is the favourite- while most are initially a bit wary of going inside, within a week or so they're tearing around at full speed and shooting out the other end!
Finally, the Activity Center; as mentioned, they get their tactile information by chewing; this is where that's not only allowed, but encouraged. Each litter gets all new items, with changes being made daily. The metallic items are excellent to get puppies used to loud noise.
