Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS)

Amanda Lofrano
Sep 8, 2018
3 min read

Small Moments. Lifelong Impact.

At 24 Karat Doodles, we believe the best puppy training begins long before a puppy ever learns to sit or come when called.

During the first few weeks of life, a puppy's brain is developing at an incredible rate. This short window gives us an opportunity to introduce tiny, carefully controlled challenges that help build resilience, confidence, and healthy neurological development.

One of the ways we do this is through Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS) also known as the Bio Sensor Program. Developed from military canine research and now widely used by many responsible breeders, ENS consists of a series of five gentle exercises performed once daily during a puppy's early neonatal period.

Each exercise lasts only a few seconds, but together they help introduce healthy, manageable stress that encourages the nervous system to develop and adapt.

Why We Use ENS

Research on puppies that participated in the Bio Sensor Program found several long-term benefits, including:

✔ Improved cardiovascular performance

✔ Stronger heart function

✔ Healthier adrenal response

✔ Greater tolerance to everyday stress

✔ Increased resistance to illness

Researchers also observed differences in learning and temperament.

Compared to their non-stimulated littermates, puppies that received ENS were often more curious, more willing to explore new environments, and recovered from stressful situations more quickly. During problem-solving exercises, they generally remained calmer, made fewer mistakes, and showed greater confidence when faced with new challenges.

While ENS is not a magic shortcut or guarantee, it is one of many intentional steps we take to help build a confident, resilient puppy from the very beginning.

The Five ENS Exercises

Each exercise is performed gently, safely, and for only 3–5 seconds.

1. Tactile Stimulation

Using a cotton swab (Q-tip), we gently touch between the toes on one foot.

This tiny sensation introduces a new tactile experience without causing discomfort and helps stimulate the developing nervous system.

2. Head Up

The puppy is held vertically with its head above its tail while the body is fully supported.

This brief position provides gentle vestibular stimulation while always keeping the puppy secure and comfortable.

3. Head Down

The puppy is carefully held at a slight downward incline with the head pointed toward the ground while the body remains fully supported. Gentle finger support is placed beneath the neck and chest to ensure the puppy stays safe, secure, and comfortable throughout the exercise.

This position lasts only a few seconds before the puppy is immediately returned to a normal position.

4. Supine Position

The puppy is gently cradled on its back in both hands with its head and body fully supported.

Rather than restraining movement, we simply allow the puppy to naturally wiggle and adjust for a few seconds before returning it to a normal position.

5. Thermal Stimulation

A cool gel pack wrapped in a thin cloth (or a refrigerated damp towel) is used to provide a cool—not cold—surface for the puppy's paws for 3–5 seconds.

The puppy is never placed directly on ice or exposed to freezing temperatures.

This brief change in temperature provides another mild neurological stimulus while keeping the puppy safe and comfortable.

It's Never Just One Thing

At 24 Karat Doodles, ENS is just one piece of our Midwoofery curriculum.

No single exercise creates an exceptional puppy.

Instead, we believe it's the combination of intentional handling, Early Neurological Stimulation, Early Scent Introduction, Potty box training, daily enrichment, socialization, confidence-building, and purposeful training that lays the foundation for a well-rounded family companion.

Every milestone matters.

Every experience teaches.

And every puppy deserves a 24k start in life.