Dogs like humans, are altricial creatures, which means they are helpless when they are born. They are completely reliant on the care of a mother for food, protection, and warmth. Puppies are also born blind and deaf. They are helpless little creatures that eat and sleep. The find their mothers milk using heat sensors at the end of their noses. After they have safely been born, the first week is all about keeping them warm, fed and safe. It is like having a newborn, any little cry or whimper in the middle of the night and we are up with a flashlight making sure they did not crawl away from the safety of their mom. The puppies are also weighed everyday to make sure they are gaining adequate weight.

A very exciting week in the life of a puppy. While they are still sleeping 90% of their day, and eating the other 10%; major changes are happening to their little bodies. The eyes start to open around day 10. Also, ideally they will double their birth weight around day 10 as well. Their nose is starting to get black, their legs are getting stronger, and they are starting to hear vibrations for sounds! Such big milestones for a week and half old!

Between 3 and 16 days we also introduce ENS or Early Neurological Stimulation. We perform a series of 5 short exercises with them to stimulate neurological vitality. Making these efforts has shown in studies to promote a healthy immune system, cardiovascular system and stress management.

Teeth start to erupt during week three which means weaning is right around the corner! The puppies also get a little less wobbly and a little more sure footed as they start to gain strength in their legs. They start walking and taking more of an interest in each other. The first stages of play begins this week! Puppies are individually cuddled daily. Deworming starts this week. They will receive approximately 4 doses before they go home.

This week the puppies continue to learn through play. We start to introduce different sounds in week four. Some sounds to soothe them, like classical music; and some sounds to startle them like a hair dryer. This is done strategically and in very small doses so that the puppy can learn a healthy way to respond to stress and be a less fearful adult. At this stage it is safe to start to introduce new friends to the puppies, which allows them to be comfortable with a variety of people. Puppies are introduced to their first foods and treats this week!

By week five, puppies are becoming play experts! More obstacles and more sophisticated play systems are incorporated this week. Their whelping box is also redesigned. A specific area for sleeping and elimination are included, along with a play area. This is the first step in potty training. They learn to eliminate away from their living space. Socialization and startle response training are continued during week five. If ever a puppy shows a strong reaction, such as shaking, retreating or cowering, to either of these stimulations, then the training will be discontinued until the pup is ready to continue.

Puppies are getting stronger and stronger, and you can see that in their play. Play is very important for puppies to learn coordination and socialization. They love to play and week six is a good week to introduce some more challenging toys, for example, getting a treat out of a snuffle ball. They are also starting to wean. Mom spends more time away from pups, but is a valuable teacher of dog socialization at this time. They also receive their first vaccine this week.

According to Puppy Culture, in week seven, a puppy should have been in 7 different safe locations, eaten out of 7 different types of bowls, and met 7 different types of people. Also this week they start having individual crate time. This will help them in transitioning to their new home, when they will be without their litter mates. Puppies will also go for a car ride this week, exposing them to a necessary activity in their life. Very short training sessions are started this week to introduce some basic good behaviors like calling them and having them come to you.

Cavapoos are ready to go to their forever homes! By law a puppy cannot leave a breeder until at least eight weeks of age. This is perfect timing because by this time they are strong and independent enough to be with their new owner. King Charles Cavaliers go home at nine weeks because we feel that extra week gives them a little more strength and experience and they will adapt better to their new home.