02/28/2026
Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS) + Early Scent Introduction (ESI): 3 weeks
At 3 weeks old babies transition from the neonatal stage into early socialization and are moved from our bedroom into the living room play area where they remain part of the day to day sights and sounds of our lives. This is when their world starts to open up.
At week 3, I introduce new surface textures, one at a time, over the span of 1 week. I also introduce 1 new scent (not previously introduced within the first weeks of life) at a time, for short periods, 1-2 times every other day by holding controlled and sterile scent sources in my hand, allowing them to be curious.
*Important*
If you’re a breeder, it's very important to understand how to apply these methods. Less is MORE. It can be counterproductive and blunt natural curiosity if done incorrectly, as you will cause nervous system overwhelm and lose all benefits.
Short, repetitive, and positive exposure sessions lays the foundation for confidence and adaptability. When we pair new surfaces with gentle scent introductions, we’re building body awareness and scent processing at the same time.
For Dachshunds, this is important. The American Kennel Club and Dachshund Club of America’s breed standards describe the dachshund as “clever, lively and courageous to the point of rashness… with all the senses well developed” They’re a small hound developed to go to ground and hunt by scent. When we pair new surfaces with gentle scent introductions, we’re building body awareness and scent processing at the same time, which supports nose-driven focus, bravery, body control, core muscle development, and the ability to problem solve without constant guidance.
Puppies who learn to move confidently across different textures and explore new smells early tend to handle new surfaces, environments, people, and everyday challenges with less hesitation. It helps them think instead of react, supporting stronger regulation and problem solving later in life.
This may simply look like puppies learning to walk at three weeks, but it’s actually nurturing their temperament, confidence, and working ability outlined in the AKC and DCA standards.
Cemcade Miniature Dachshunds
AKC Breed Standard
https://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Official_Standard_Dachshund.pdf
Dachshund Club of America Breed Standard
https://www.dachshundclubofamerica.org/breed/breed-standard/h
