EDUCATION HUB

    PUPPY RAISING GUIDE

    A comprehensive roadmap from birth to placement, everything a puppy raiser needs to know.

    TIMELINE

    BIRTH TO PLACEMENT

    1
    Birth to 2 Weeks

    Neonatal Period

    Puppies are born blind and deaf. Breeders begin Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS) protocols to build stress tolerance and neurological resilience.

    2
    2 to 4 Weeks

    Transitional Period

    Eyes and ears open. Puppies begin walking and exploring. Introduction to new textures, sounds, and gentle handling by multiple people.

    3
    4 to 8 Weeks

    Socialization Window

    Critical socialization period. Puppies are exposed to household sounds, children, other animals, and varied environments.

    4
    8 to 16 Weeks

    Puppy Raiser Placement

    Puppies go to their raiser families. Focus on house training, crate training, basic obedience, and continued socialization.

    5
    4 to 8 Months

    Foundation Skills

    Loose-leash walking, impulse control, settle on command. First visits to stores, restaurants, and public transit.

    6
    8 to 12 Months

    Advanced Public Access

    Extended outings to busy environments. Introduction to escalators, elevators, automatic doors.

    7
    12 to 18 Months

    Pre-Service Evaluation

    Formal evaluation of temperament, health, and training readiness. Dogs that pass move to professional task training.

    8
    18 to 24 Months

    Team Training & Placement

    Matched with their handler. Intensive team training over 2-4 weeks. Public access certification.

    Socialization Checklist

    Track your puppy's exposure over time. Enter their name and the date, check off their experiences, and print this record to monitor their progress.

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    Surfaces & Textures

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    Become a Puppy Raiser

    Raising a future service dog is one of the most rewarding volunteer experiences in the world. Want to learn more about joining our community?

    Apply to Raise

    JOIN THE MISSION TODAY

    Discover how you can support our programs and help us create a world where service dog teams are understood and respected.