6 puppies, (3 boys, 3 girls) freewhelped
D.O.B. 6/6/26
We are excited about this litter! Our last from the Lemaitre line. Behind the dam, Stella, we find such legends as Bazinga (Stella's sire, the pups' grandsire) who sired Biggie, who won more Best in Shows than any pug in history/Westminster etc., and also Rocket Man, our foundation girl KK's sire. Behind the sire, Parker, we find top (#1, #3) pugs in USA Reese, Nobel, and going further back on both lines, some incredible and important pugs.
We are also incredibly excited about the amazing homes these puppies will be joining:
Companion homes and possibly 2 performance homes in
Arizona
Alabama
New York
Texas
*Possibly California
*Possibly us at Pickwick Pugs
(*The last 2 will need to grow out a bit more before we know if a pup would excel at agility/CA or conformation/us. So, there is a possibility of the last 2 eventually in search of a wonderful companion home, but at this time we don't know.)
D.O.B. 6/6/26
We are excited about this litter! Our last from the Lemaitre line. Behind the dam, Stella, we find such legends as Bazinga (Stella's sire, the pups' grandsire) who sired Biggie, who won more Best in Shows than any pug in history/Westminster etc., and also Rocket Man, our foundation girl KK's sire. Behind the sire, Parker, we find top (#1, #3) pugs in USA Reese, Nobel, and going further back on both lines, some incredible and important pugs.
We are also incredibly excited about the amazing homes these puppies will be joining:
Companion homes and possibly 2 performance homes in
Arizona
Alabama
New York
Texas
*Possibly California
*Possibly us at Pickwick Pugs
(*The last 2 will need to grow out a bit more before we know if a pup would excel at agility/CA or conformation/us. So, there is a possibility of the last 2 eventually in search of a wonderful companion home, but at this time we don't know.)
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A little collage image AI put together based upon the adult pugs' photos. Of course AI took the liberty of guessing how the pups will look, as when this was created their eyes weren't even open yet. Scroll down for actual photos and videos and to follow their adventures.
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Dam
Pickwick's Watching the Stars Align (Stella)
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Sire
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Pickwick's Written in the Stars
Male Artie AKC Registration #TS70763001 Microchip: |
Pickwick's Moonbeam Magic
Male Moonie AKC Registration #TS70763002 Microchip: |
Pickwick's Over the Moon
Male Captain AKC Registration #TS70763003 Microchip: |
Pickwick's Love You to the Moon
Female Nova AKC Registration #TS70763004 Microchip: |
Pickwick's Chasing Moonbeams
Female Cres AKC Registration #TS70763005 Microchip: |
Pickwick's Moonstruck
Female Luna AKC Registration# TS70763006 Microchip: |
BLOG
Our 2026 litter is here! After more than 36 hours of Stage I labor, careful monitoring, and another veterinary evaluation earlier today including a 2nd ultrasound and progesterone testing at our wonderful vet (thank you Karen and Dr. Borden)… Stella finally decided the timing was right. As the pug of musicians, her timing is actually pretty amazing as now both of us will be able to play church today. (Déjà vu ) At least, unlike last summer, she allowed me 2 hours sleep before I had to play church ha. Once active labor finally began, she free whelped six beautiful puppies over the course of just 2½ hours. Three girls. Three boys. Gorgeous. Mother and babies are thriving.
This blog will progress backwards chronologically, with the most recent posts at the top.
This blog will progress backwards chronologically, with the most recent posts at the top.
Behind the Videos: Stacking, Recalls & a Little Cream Cheese
It has taken me hours upon hours to sort through, edit, and assemble all of these puppy videos — but they are such a wonderful record of this particular stage in their development.
This was the puppies’ very first experience on a stacking table, and they handled the new adventure beautifully. Of course, the generous supply of cream cheese may have helped. And yes, afterward they had decidedly white faces instead of black ones!
At this age, we aren't looking for perfection. We are introducing new experiences, building confidence, and helping the puppies discover that learning with people is both safe and tremendously fun. Their recalls are beginning to emerge, too, and one of our favorite ways to develop them is a game called Puppy Ping Pong. Puppy Ping Pong requires two people, so we work it into our schedules — particularly Jeff's schedule! — as often as we can. One person calls the puppy enthusiastically and rewards the puppy for coming; then the other person does the same. Back and forth the puppy goes, learning one of the most important lessons a dog can ever learn:
Coming when called is wonderful.
As the puppy becomes more proficient, the game can become much more interesting. You can increase the distance, move around corners, or even hide in different rooms and let your puppy come find you. What begins as a simple puppy game gradually lays the foundation for a happy, enthusiastic, reliable recall. And the puppies think it is fabulous.
Many of these recall games are included in The Pug Puppy Primer, with step-by-step instructions and accompanying video demonstrations. In fact, many of the videos we're recording during this litter's training sessions will eventually become teaching examples in the Pug Puppy Primer e-book.
So while I'm behind the camera thinking, “Was that one in focus? Did I actually get the whole puppy in the frame?” — the puppies are unknowingly helping us create a training resource for future generations of Pickwick puppies and their families.
They are learning how to become wonderful companions.
And, perhaps just as importantly, they are helping us teach their future families how to continue what we started. Introducing, the Artemis Puppies at 8 and 8.5 weeks of age (and a few extra repeats for fun!):
It has taken me hours upon hours to sort through, edit, and assemble all of these puppy videos — but they are such a wonderful record of this particular stage in their development.
This was the puppies’ very first experience on a stacking table, and they handled the new adventure beautifully. Of course, the generous supply of cream cheese may have helped. And yes, afterward they had decidedly white faces instead of black ones!
At this age, we aren't looking for perfection. We are introducing new experiences, building confidence, and helping the puppies discover that learning with people is both safe and tremendously fun. Their recalls are beginning to emerge, too, and one of our favorite ways to develop them is a game called Puppy Ping Pong. Puppy Ping Pong requires two people, so we work it into our schedules — particularly Jeff's schedule! — as often as we can. One person calls the puppy enthusiastically and rewards the puppy for coming; then the other person does the same. Back and forth the puppy goes, learning one of the most important lessons a dog can ever learn:
Coming when called is wonderful.
As the puppy becomes more proficient, the game can become much more interesting. You can increase the distance, move around corners, or even hide in different rooms and let your puppy come find you. What begins as a simple puppy game gradually lays the foundation for a happy, enthusiastic, reliable recall. And the puppies think it is fabulous.
Many of these recall games are included in The Pug Puppy Primer, with step-by-step instructions and accompanying video demonstrations. In fact, many of the videos we're recording during this litter's training sessions will eventually become teaching examples in the Pug Puppy Primer e-book.
So while I'm behind the camera thinking, “Was that one in focus? Did I actually get the whole puppy in the frame?” — the puppies are unknowingly helping us create a training resource for future generations of Pickwick puppies and their families.
They are learning how to become wonderful companions.
And, perhaps just as importantly, they are helping us teach their future families how to continue what we started. Introducing, the Artemis Puppies at 8 and 8.5 weeks of age (and a few extra repeats for fun!):
Luna (Pickwick's Moonstruck):
Nova (Pickwick's Love You to the Moon):
Cres (Pickwick's Chasing Moonbeams):
Moonie (Pickwick's Moonbeam Magic):
Artie (Pickwick's Written in the Stars):
Captain (Pickwick's Over the Moon):
Wednesday, August 5, 2026 — 8½ Weeks Old: A Day at the Office
The puppies are officially 8½ weeks old today! They celebrated “hump day” by going to work with Jeff — and, as you might imagine, they accomplished very little actual work. I packed their lunch, dinner, and treats. Jeff packed a litterbox and extra litter. He already keeps an x-pen in his office, and we tucked their little travel litterbox into the crate for the ride. We do this for virtually every car trip, and the puppies have become remarkably good about using it if nature calls along the way.
Word apparently travels quickly through a church when six pug puppies are in the building. Before long, people were finding reasons to come downstairs to Jeff’s office to meet them. Even the senior pastor came down after hearing what all the commotion was about! Then came choir rehearsal, finally back in session, which meant even more new people, new voices, new sounds, new laps, and an extraordinary amount of puppy cuddling. Jeff joked that he made certain to count all six puppies before everyone went home.
Unfortunately, he was far too busy to take photographs, but perhaps we'll be able to collect a few from some of their new friends. People are forever asking if they may take a picture with the puppies. In fact, I have even caught delivery drivers taking pictures of them over the fence from time to time. Apparently Pickwick Pug encounters require photographic evidence.
Socialization at Full Speed
At this age, socialization and training are moving full speed ahead — which means I am perpetually behind on emails and almost everything else! This week we took the puppies' official stacked photos, recorded some movement videos, and played another round of “Puppy Ping Pong,” one of our favorite recall games. Two people take turns calling and rewarding a puppy as he happily races back and forth between them. It is simple, joyful, and remarkably revealing.
And this week's game provided a perfect reminder of something we try very hard to remember when evaluating puppies:
Development is not linear.
Artie, in particular, behaved quite differently during yesterday's Puppy Ping Pong session than he had during his temperament evaluation last week. I suspect he may be entering another developmental fear period. These sensitive periods don't arrive according to an exact calendar; they can appear at somewhat different ages in individual puppies, sometimes lasting only a day or even a portion of a day, and sometimes a little longer.
Artie was also the first puppy in this litter to show a noticeable developmental shift around five weeks old — almost to the day. He was our firstborn and is one of the larger boys, and it is fascinating to wonder whether he simply reaches certain developmental milestones a little sooner.
It reminds me of two twin boys I once taught piano. Although they were the same age and growing up side by side, their development never happened in perfect parallel. One would suddenly accelerate while the other seemed to reach a plateau; then, sometime later, they would switch. Over time things would level out, yet each boy continued to reveal his own particular strengths — strengths that eventually became part of his individual musicianship.
Puppies are remarkably similar. Six puppies born within a few hours of one another can experience the same environment, enrichment, training, and socialization and still process those experiences in wonderfully individual ways.
The Work Behind the Match
Meanwhile, I have been studying — and studying, and studying — the videos from our temperament evaluations.
I watch them repeatedly, take notes, compare observations, make short video compilations, and revisit evaluations from previous Pickwick litters. It is enormously helpful in the matching process, but doing it thoroughly takes a tremendous amount of time.
And that time matters. A successful match is not an accident. A formal temperament evaluation gives us valuable information, but it is only one snapshot of one puppy on one particular day. The fuller picture has been developing for months. We have been watching these puppies since their earliest neonatal days: how they responded to early handling protocols, how quickly they recovered from something unexpected, how they approached new surfaces and environments, how they interacted with people and littermates, how they solved problems, and how their confidence, independence, sensitivity, persistence, and social engagement have developed over time.
The temperament evaluation adds another important piece to that much larger puzzle. And even after a puppy leaves Pickwick, temperament isn't a finished product. Genetics provide the foundation. Early experiences begin shaping it. Thoughtful socialization, training, relationships, environment, and life itself continue the process.
That is why we don't simply ask, “How did this puppy score?” We ask a much more important question: “Who is this puppy becoming — and in what kind of home will that puppy flourish?”
That is the heart of the matching process ....... Evaluation is the snapshot. Development is the journey.
The puppies are officially 8½ weeks old today! They celebrated “hump day” by going to work with Jeff — and, as you might imagine, they accomplished very little actual work. I packed their lunch, dinner, and treats. Jeff packed a litterbox and extra litter. He already keeps an x-pen in his office, and we tucked their little travel litterbox into the crate for the ride. We do this for virtually every car trip, and the puppies have become remarkably good about using it if nature calls along the way.
Word apparently travels quickly through a church when six pug puppies are in the building. Before long, people were finding reasons to come downstairs to Jeff’s office to meet them. Even the senior pastor came down after hearing what all the commotion was about! Then came choir rehearsal, finally back in session, which meant even more new people, new voices, new sounds, new laps, and an extraordinary amount of puppy cuddling. Jeff joked that he made certain to count all six puppies before everyone went home.
Unfortunately, he was far too busy to take photographs, but perhaps we'll be able to collect a few from some of their new friends. People are forever asking if they may take a picture with the puppies. In fact, I have even caught delivery drivers taking pictures of them over the fence from time to time. Apparently Pickwick Pug encounters require photographic evidence.
Socialization at Full Speed
At this age, socialization and training are moving full speed ahead — which means I am perpetually behind on emails and almost everything else! This week we took the puppies' official stacked photos, recorded some movement videos, and played another round of “Puppy Ping Pong,” one of our favorite recall games. Two people take turns calling and rewarding a puppy as he happily races back and forth between them. It is simple, joyful, and remarkably revealing.
And this week's game provided a perfect reminder of something we try very hard to remember when evaluating puppies:
Development is not linear.
Artie, in particular, behaved quite differently during yesterday's Puppy Ping Pong session than he had during his temperament evaluation last week. I suspect he may be entering another developmental fear period. These sensitive periods don't arrive according to an exact calendar; they can appear at somewhat different ages in individual puppies, sometimes lasting only a day or even a portion of a day, and sometimes a little longer.
Artie was also the first puppy in this litter to show a noticeable developmental shift around five weeks old — almost to the day. He was our firstborn and is one of the larger boys, and it is fascinating to wonder whether he simply reaches certain developmental milestones a little sooner.
It reminds me of two twin boys I once taught piano. Although they were the same age and growing up side by side, their development never happened in perfect parallel. One would suddenly accelerate while the other seemed to reach a plateau; then, sometime later, they would switch. Over time things would level out, yet each boy continued to reveal his own particular strengths — strengths that eventually became part of his individual musicianship.
Puppies are remarkably similar. Six puppies born within a few hours of one another can experience the same environment, enrichment, training, and socialization and still process those experiences in wonderfully individual ways.
The Work Behind the Match
Meanwhile, I have been studying — and studying, and studying — the videos from our temperament evaluations.
I watch them repeatedly, take notes, compare observations, make short video compilations, and revisit evaluations from previous Pickwick litters. It is enormously helpful in the matching process, but doing it thoroughly takes a tremendous amount of time.
And that time matters. A successful match is not an accident. A formal temperament evaluation gives us valuable information, but it is only one snapshot of one puppy on one particular day. The fuller picture has been developing for months. We have been watching these puppies since their earliest neonatal days: how they responded to early handling protocols, how quickly they recovered from something unexpected, how they approached new surfaces and environments, how they interacted with people and littermates, how they solved problems, and how their confidence, independence, sensitivity, persistence, and social engagement have developed over time.
The temperament evaluation adds another important piece to that much larger puzzle. And even after a puppy leaves Pickwick, temperament isn't a finished product. Genetics provide the foundation. Early experiences begin shaping it. Thoughtful socialization, training, relationships, environment, and life itself continue the process.
That is why we don't simply ask, “How did this puppy score?” We ask a much more important question: “Who is this puppy becoming — and in what kind of home will that puppy flourish?”
That is the heart of the matching process ....... Evaluation is the snapshot. Development is the journey.
This is the playbook 'booklet' each owner will receive in the puppy packet on Gotcha Day (a print out, hard copy version of this e-book) along with customized training and socialization suggestions and checklists.
https://www.flipsnack.com/E7AB7C66AED/puppy-s-temperament-playbook
https://www.flipsnack.com/E7AB7C66AED/puppy-s-temperament-playbook
This is the book I wrote to help with the evaluations and also describe what is involved:
https://www.flipsnack.com/E7AB7C66AED/pickwick-field-guide-to-puppy-temperament-evaluations/full-view.html
https://www.flipsnack.com/E7AB7C66AED/pickwick-field-guide-to-puppy-temperament-evaluations/full-view.html
Here are the puppies' videos of their first table stacks (and first cream cheese licking from the lid! ha), plus some shots of their last "Puppy Ping Pong" session:
The puppies' new experience for today was a new bubble machine! It even played (pretty obnoxious actually) Sound of Music tunes ;) It seemed to zoomify the pups ... and they were mesmerized with the bubbles. Cindy and Riga are mesmerized with these pups! The older generation like Lilly, Buttercup, and KK, not so much. ;)
July 29, 2026 – First Vaccinations & A Perfect Health Report!
Today was a big milestone for the Artemis Litter! The puppies made a trip to Galleria Animal Clinic for their first round of vaccinations and received glowing report cards all around.
Dr. Williams performed a thorough nose-to-tail examination on each puppy, carefully listening to hearts and lungs, checking eyes and ears, evaluating their patellas and spines, and collecting fecal samples—which were happily all clear. Every puppy earned a clean bill of health!
One of the highlights of our visit was chatting with Dr. Williams about the physical demands of canine agility, as one of these little stars may have an agility career ahead. Since she actively competes in agility herself, her perspective was especially valuable. Her assistant, Jana, who has shown multiple breeds in AKC conformation, also spent time evaluating the puppies and sharing her observations. We truly appreciate having so many experienced eyes helping these babies get the very best start in life.
We are incredibly grateful for the entire team at Galleria Animal Clinic. Their knowledge, kindness, and genuine love for our dogs make every visit a wonderful experience. We feel truly blessed to have such an exceptional veterinary team caring for our Pickwick Pugs.
(Be sure to watch the video below—we even celebrated the occasion with a brand-new song!)
Today was a big milestone for the Artemis Litter! The puppies made a trip to Galleria Animal Clinic for their first round of vaccinations and received glowing report cards all around.
Dr. Williams performed a thorough nose-to-tail examination on each puppy, carefully listening to hearts and lungs, checking eyes and ears, evaluating their patellas and spines, and collecting fecal samples—which were happily all clear. Every puppy earned a clean bill of health!
One of the highlights of our visit was chatting with Dr. Williams about the physical demands of canine agility, as one of these little stars may have an agility career ahead. Since she actively competes in agility herself, her perspective was especially valuable. Her assistant, Jana, who has shown multiple breeds in AKC conformation, also spent time evaluating the puppies and sharing her observations. We truly appreciate having so many experienced eyes helping these babies get the very best start in life.
We are incredibly grateful for the entire team at Galleria Animal Clinic. Their knowledge, kindness, and genuine love for our dogs make every visit a wonderful experience. We feel truly blessed to have such an exceptional veterinary team caring for our Pickwick Pugs.
(Be sure to watch the video below—we even celebrated the occasion with a brand-new song!)
The puppies at 7 Weeks of Age!!
Finally a bit of a break in the weather (either extremely hot "heat warning" or downpours of rain and lightening storms) so the pups could get outside. Thankfully, we have a big "piano studio" downstairs where they can train in AC and comfort. Today was a tough day -- car wouldn't start so I had to call an Uber to drive me to the church I play at on Sunday mornings. (Thankfully, some kind parishioners drove me home to save another $26). I had hoped to bring the pups to church, but I wouldn't impose that upon an Uber driver. Perhaps next week! They will have had one round of vaccinations (this coming Wednesday 29th!) so that will help fight any unusual things they might encounter. This Tuesday, 28th is their temperament evaluations with Lani Powell. We will work from 2-approximately 5 and then, meanwhile, Jeff is going to cook dinner for Lani, me, and her husband! While the pups rest because they will be exhausted. ;) Lots of footage from that soon! And updates from Wednesday's vet visit. Meanwhile, here they are being ridiculously cute ... and my "antidepressants" after a tough Sunday. So much better than TV!
Finally a bit of a break in the weather (either extremely hot "heat warning" or downpours of rain and lightening storms) so the pups could get outside. Thankfully, we have a big "piano studio" downstairs where they can train in AC and comfort. Today was a tough day -- car wouldn't start so I had to call an Uber to drive me to the church I play at on Sunday mornings. (Thankfully, some kind parishioners drove me home to save another $26). I had hoped to bring the pups to church, but I wouldn't impose that upon an Uber driver. Perhaps next week! They will have had one round of vaccinations (this coming Wednesday 29th!) so that will help fight any unusual things they might encounter. This Tuesday, 28th is their temperament evaluations with Lani Powell. We will work from 2-approximately 5 and then, meanwhile, Jeff is going to cook dinner for Lani, me, and her husband! While the pups rest because they will be exhausted. ;) Lots of footage from that soon! And updates from Wednesday's vet visit. Meanwhile, here they are being ridiculously cute ... and my "antidepressants" after a tough Sunday. So much better than TV!
Saturday, July 18, 2026 – Puppy Party!
The Artemis Litter celebrated their 6-week Puppy Party today, and it was a wonderful success! We are so incredibly grateful to everyone who came to help socialize the puppies—including one remarkable young gentleman who was absolutely wonderful with them. It truly takes a village to raise a litter well, and we couldn't have asked for a better group of puppy volunteers.
The adventures actually began the evening before with each puppy's first official bath and blow dry. While the blow dryer wasn't new—they had already been introduced to it as a novelty experience before their eyes even opened—this was their first full grooming session. Then came their first real car ride: a 30-minute trip (their only previous excursion had been the one-block drive to the veterinarian shortly after birth).
Inspired by the Puppy Culture Puppy Party concept (with a few modifications of our own and a larger venue to accommodate guests), the puppies rotated through six different activity stations every few minutes. The goal was simple: to teach them that exploring new places with unfamiliar people is fun, safe, and rewarding. Of course, there were plenty of puppy cuddles and kisses along the way! To help keep everyone healthy, our guests wore surgical booties and scrubs, and the floors were thoroughly disinfected both before and after the event (despite a few inevitable puppy "accidents" along the way!).
The puppies experienced a wonderful variety of confidence-building activities, including crawling through tunnels, climbing ramps and steps, balancing on wobble boards and unusual surfaces, walking through marbles, playing on a giant floor piano keyboard, investigating a rather chatty giraffe toy, chasing rolling balls and a moving spaceship, and, of course, enjoying a giant ball pit and fort.
Alas, Jeff and I were so busy helping everyone that we only had time for photographs following the party, but Viktor, a violinist who we've performed with brought his quite fancy camera and took some amazing photos of the pups. The video shots below were taken after our guests had left which gave the pups some free time to freely and happily revisited many of their favorite challenges before eventually wandering back into the ball pit for one final group nap. It had been a very exciting day! As always, the puppies taught me a few lessons of their own. Nova, our smallest girl, was especially confident throughout the afternoon, closely followed by Cres. The biggest surprise, however, was Captain. At home he often seems quieter and more thoughtful, but at the party he blossomed into quite the social butterfly, happily engaging with everyone he met.
Coming just after the puppies' brief five-week fear period, the timing worked out beautifully. Interestingly, this litter seemed to move through that developmental stage at slightly different times—Artie even entered his a day earlier than expected! Fortunately, each puppy worked through it quickly, and by Puppy Party day, everyone was approaching new experiences with confidence and curiosity.
This was only the beginning of their adventures. In the weeks ahead, we'll continue introducing them to new sights, sounds, people, and places as they begin taking stroller outings into the world. After such a busy day, however, they definitely earned a well-deserved day of rest on Sunday. By the end of the party, the Artemis puppies had met more than fifteen people of all ages, along with one very special "stranger pug"—Winston from our Poldark litter, who now lives locally. It was such a joy to see him again! Riga also joined us for the outing and thoroughly enjoyed being part of the festivities.
The Artemis Litter celebrated their 6-week Puppy Party today, and it was a wonderful success! We are so incredibly grateful to everyone who came to help socialize the puppies—including one remarkable young gentleman who was absolutely wonderful with them. It truly takes a village to raise a litter well, and we couldn't have asked for a better group of puppy volunteers.
The adventures actually began the evening before with each puppy's first official bath and blow dry. While the blow dryer wasn't new—they had already been introduced to it as a novelty experience before their eyes even opened—this was their first full grooming session. Then came their first real car ride: a 30-minute trip (their only previous excursion had been the one-block drive to the veterinarian shortly after birth).
Inspired by the Puppy Culture Puppy Party concept (with a few modifications of our own and a larger venue to accommodate guests), the puppies rotated through six different activity stations every few minutes. The goal was simple: to teach them that exploring new places with unfamiliar people is fun, safe, and rewarding. Of course, there were plenty of puppy cuddles and kisses along the way! To help keep everyone healthy, our guests wore surgical booties and scrubs, and the floors were thoroughly disinfected both before and after the event (despite a few inevitable puppy "accidents" along the way!).
The puppies experienced a wonderful variety of confidence-building activities, including crawling through tunnels, climbing ramps and steps, balancing on wobble boards and unusual surfaces, walking through marbles, playing on a giant floor piano keyboard, investigating a rather chatty giraffe toy, chasing rolling balls and a moving spaceship, and, of course, enjoying a giant ball pit and fort.
Alas, Jeff and I were so busy helping everyone that we only had time for photographs following the party, but Viktor, a violinist who we've performed with brought his quite fancy camera and took some amazing photos of the pups. The video shots below were taken after our guests had left which gave the pups some free time to freely and happily revisited many of their favorite challenges before eventually wandering back into the ball pit for one final group nap. It had been a very exciting day! As always, the puppies taught me a few lessons of their own. Nova, our smallest girl, was especially confident throughout the afternoon, closely followed by Cres. The biggest surprise, however, was Captain. At home he often seems quieter and more thoughtful, but at the party he blossomed into quite the social butterfly, happily engaging with everyone he met.
Coming just after the puppies' brief five-week fear period, the timing worked out beautifully. Interestingly, this litter seemed to move through that developmental stage at slightly different times—Artie even entered his a day earlier than expected! Fortunately, each puppy worked through it quickly, and by Puppy Party day, everyone was approaching new experiences with confidence and curiosity.
This was only the beginning of their adventures. In the weeks ahead, we'll continue introducing them to new sights, sounds, people, and places as they begin taking stroller outings into the world. After such a busy day, however, they definitely earned a well-deserved day of rest on Sunday. By the end of the party, the Artemis puppies had met more than fifteen people of all ages, along with one very special "stranger pug"—Winston from our Poldark litter, who now lives locally. It was such a joy to see him again! Riga also joined us for the outing and thoroughly enjoyed being part of the festivities.
A few shots from the end of the party ... thank you so much for these Viktor! Your camera is AMAZING. The pups got to meet a concert violinist, too! ;)
They rested in between challenges in their Xpen setup in Jeff's office ....
7/17/26: A visit outside to "meet" a big black fluffy dog (our Jerry). It was SO hot that we had to cut the outing short, but they had fun discovering the big carnival tent.
Today, the pups enjoyed another outing to a different room. They explored an IKEA (very crunchy and loud) bag ... a ramp ... and they had an outside visit to an area of wet concrete (washed thoroughly with clorox)! That one was tough for them but they all eventually got their sea legs. Here are some shots from their "IKEA shopping adventure" lolz.
The 6-Week Puppy Party is scheduled for this coming Saturday, 7/18/26 at 2 PM! We have received several RSVP's from wonderful, dog savvy friends and ordered the snacks for humans (and puppies)! Here is the menu along with the stations for the activities each puppy will enjoy (twice ... hopefully, having more success the 2nd attempt). This will be their first official outing anywhere so it is a BIG deal!
The Puppy Station Activities! And, why on earth would someone throw a "puppy party" for 6-week old puppies? At approximately six weeks of age, puppies enter a peak period of curiosity, making it an ideal time for a carefully managed Puppy Party. Guided by the Puppy Culture program, the goal is to create positive, confidence-building experiences with new people, novel surfaces, sounds, objects, and gentle challenges—all at the puppy's own pace. Rather than testing or overwhelming puppies, each activity is designed to encourage exploration, resilience, optimism, and trust while allowing every puppy to succeed in their own way.
If you've attended one of our Puppy Parties before, you'll notice they're never identical. The underlying Puppy Culture principles remain the same, but we enjoy designing a new adventure for every litter. One thing we do differently is hold the party at the church in a very controlled (but new) environment. This is because of logistics and just not having a place in our home where we could have the stations spread out. Also, our station challenges and equipment may vary slightly but always with the same goal in mind. But, whether it's a space mission, Parisian café, or another whimsical theme, the goal is always the same: helping puppies discover that the world is full of interesting things—and that they are brave enough to explore it. Besides... after raising litters for years, we have to keep ourselves entertained too!
The parties aren't just cute themes—they're intentional environments. The space theme isn't about rockets; it's about pairing carefully chosen novelty items (ramps, tunnels, balloons, textures, wobble boards, moving objects) with positive reinforcement. The whimsy is what makes the experience memorable for the humans, but the behavioral science underneath is what makes it valuable for the puppies.
Here are the instructions for the party guests. 6 Stations, 6 pups. One or more station humans per station. LOTS of treats ;) Each directive starts with this paragraph, then branches off to the unique activities per station.
"🚀 WELCOME, MISSION CONTROL!
Today, our young puppy astronauts will encounter strange surfaces, mysterious objects, unexpected sounds, unstable footing, tunnels, balloons, aliens, spaceships, and perhaps even a meteor splash or two!
The goal is not to complete the challenge. The goal is to build confidence, curiosity, and trust while working with a human.
A puppy may complete an entire challenge — or may simply look at it, sniff it, approach it, put one paw on it, and decide that's enough for now. All of these are successes.
Reward frequently. Move slowly. Allow puppies to retreat to a safe place and try again. Never force, frighten, or overwhelm.
Our mission: Novelty + Fun + Trust + Success! 🌙🐾"
If you've attended one of our Puppy Parties before, you'll notice they're never identical. The underlying Puppy Culture principles remain the same, but we enjoy designing a new adventure for every litter. One thing we do differently is hold the party at the church in a very controlled (but new) environment. This is because of logistics and just not having a place in our home where we could have the stations spread out. Also, our station challenges and equipment may vary slightly but always with the same goal in mind. But, whether it's a space mission, Parisian café, or another whimsical theme, the goal is always the same: helping puppies discover that the world is full of interesting things—and that they are brave enough to explore it. Besides... after raising litters for years, we have to keep ourselves entertained too!
The parties aren't just cute themes—they're intentional environments. The space theme isn't about rockets; it's about pairing carefully chosen novelty items (ramps, tunnels, balloons, textures, wobble boards, moving objects) with positive reinforcement. The whimsy is what makes the experience memorable for the humans, but the behavioral science underneath is what makes it valuable for the puppies.
Here are the instructions for the party guests. 6 Stations, 6 pups. One or more station humans per station. LOTS of treats ;) Each directive starts with this paragraph, then branches off to the unique activities per station.
"🚀 WELCOME, MISSION CONTROL!
Today, our young puppy astronauts will encounter strange surfaces, mysterious objects, unexpected sounds, unstable footing, tunnels, balloons, aliens, spaceships, and perhaps even a meteor splash or two!
The goal is not to complete the challenge. The goal is to build confidence, curiosity, and trust while working with a human.
A puppy may complete an entire challenge — or may simply look at it, sniff it, approach it, put one paw on it, and decide that's enough for now. All of these are successes.
Reward frequently. Move slowly. Allow puppies to retreat to a safe place and try again. Never force, frighten, or overwhelm.
Our mission: Novelty + Fun + Trust + Success! 🌙🐾"
STATION 1: 🚀 Launch Pad — Ramp + Balloons
Brave explorers may encounter strange floating objects as the walk up the launch pad 😉
Brave explorers may encounter strange floating objects as the walk up the launch pad 😉
STATION 2: Wormhole - Mini Tunnel + Marbles
Journey through the mysterious passage and investigate an unusual lunar surface.
ASTRONAUT OBJECTIVES (for the puppy): The puppy follows a lure through the mini tunnel, then investigates/stands on a shallow tray of large smooth marbles.
MISSION CONTROL INSTRUCTIONS (for the humans): Follow the food lure through the mini tunnel. One person may have some treats at the opposite in luring, while a 2nd person lures at the start of the tunnel. It may be quite possible that a pup never sets foot in the tunnel and that’s ok. The goal is to build trust working with a human. Shape toward the ultimate goal and reward small approximations (treat if they look at tunnel, sniff tunnel, approach tunnel, step one foot in tunnel, etc. Often it is good to allow the puppy to ‘come back to the safe place’ (perhaps the entrance to the tunnel) – reward and start again, versus trying to make them continuously move forward through the tunnel. Move lure slowly. Reward frequently.
With the marbles, just make sure no one eats (shouldn’t be a problem 😉). It is just to feel the texture under their feet. If the pup wants to try and walk great. They don’t have to stay in long. You can treat and then take them out. Have a quick break, then try again. Novelty and fun and success is the goal.
Goal of puppy party: Working with a stranger human being is safe and fun. That's actually the hidden heart of the entire puppy party. The ramp, wobble board, tunnel etc. are almost secondary.
These puppies are learning: new person + strange thing + food + choice + success = the world is a good place.
is a good place.
Journey through the mysterious passage and investigate an unusual lunar surface.
ASTRONAUT OBJECTIVES (for the puppy): The puppy follows a lure through the mini tunnel, then investigates/stands on a shallow tray of large smooth marbles.
MISSION CONTROL INSTRUCTIONS (for the humans): Follow the food lure through the mini tunnel. One person may have some treats at the opposite in luring, while a 2nd person lures at the start of the tunnel. It may be quite possible that a pup never sets foot in the tunnel and that’s ok. The goal is to build trust working with a human. Shape toward the ultimate goal and reward small approximations (treat if they look at tunnel, sniff tunnel, approach tunnel, step one foot in tunnel, etc. Often it is good to allow the puppy to ‘come back to the safe place’ (perhaps the entrance to the tunnel) – reward and start again, versus trying to make them continuously move forward through the tunnel. Move lure slowly. Reward frequently.
With the marbles, just make sure no one eats (shouldn’t be a problem 😉). It is just to feel the texture under their feet. If the pup wants to try and walk great. They don’t have to stay in long. You can treat and then take them out. Have a quick break, then try again. Novelty and fun and success is the goal.
Goal of puppy party: Working with a stranger human being is safe and fun. That's actually the hidden heart of the entire puppy party. The ramp, wobble board, tunnel etc. are almost secondary.
These puppies are learning: new person + strange thing + food + choice + success = the world is a good place.
is a good place.
🚀 WELCOME, MISSION CONTROL!
Today, our young puppy astronauts will encounter strange surfaces, mysterious objects, unexpected sounds, unstable footing, tunnels, balloons, aliens, spaceships, and perhaps even a meteor splash or two!
The goal is not to complete the challenge. The goal is to build confidence, curiosity, and trust while working with a human.
A puppy may complete an entire challenge — or may simply look at it, sniff it, approach it, put one paw on it, and decide that's enough for now. All of these are successes.
Reward frequently. Move slowly. Allow puppies to retreat to a safe place and try again. Never force, frighten, or overwhelm.
Our mission: Novelty + Fun + Trust + Success! 🌙🐾
ASTRONAUT OBJECTIVES (for the puppy): The puppy follows a lure up and over the ramp while balloons float or bob nearby. That's a wonderful combination of elevation, movement, and visual novelty. I'd keep the balloons securely tethered and not directly in the puppy's face.
MISSION CONTROL INSTRUCTIONS (for the humans): Follow the lure up/down the ramp. It may be that a pup never sets a foot on ramp. That’s ok. The goal = to build trust working with a human. So, reward a treat even if pup looks at the ramp, or if he/she approaches it, or if one paw on or noses it, or if takes a step up but then turns around etc. “Shape toward the ultimate goal” which would be to walk up the ramp and back down.
Sight/Sensory/Novelty: Balloons – just that pups notice them. Don’t scare them by moving them or putting near face etc. Just to be aware of them at safe distance.
Goal of puppy party: Working with a stranger human being is safe and fun. That's actually the hidden heart of the entire puppy party. The ramp, wobble board, tunnel etc. are almost secondary.
These puppies are learning: new person + strange thing + food + choice + success = the world is a good place.
STATION 3: ✨ Lunar Landing — Round Balance Disc + Rolling Spaceship
Balance on mysterious moon surface (balance disc) and investigate rolling spaceshiP
ASTRONAUT OBJECTIVES (for the puppy): Develop a strong core so you can balance on all strange surfaces of the moon! Patrol the directive of the lunar mobile car as it rolls away and near you.
MISSION CONTROL INSTRUCTIONS (for the humans): Using a food lure, try to get the puppy to get onto the balance disc and stand. You can support the disc so it doesn’t wobble to much with one hand, or a 2nd person. Reward/treat frequently and “shape” toward the ultimate goal. Treat and praise if the puppy looks at disc, sniffs disc, puts one foot on disc etc. It may be quite possible that a pup never sets foot on the disc and that’s ok. The ultimate goal is to build trust working with a human. Shape toward this goal and reward small approximations as needed.
The toy car is a “pull back then roll” car. Try to make it as calm and non-threatening as possible (aiming away from puppy etc.) If it is too scary/too fast, just roll it around and let puppy sniff. Treat as the puppy sniffs and engages or notices the toy. Chase the rocket ship toy? That would be amazing but not required.
Goal of puppy party: Working with a stranger human being is safe and fun. That's actually the hidden heart of the entire puppy party. The ramp, wobble board, tunnel etc. are almost secondary.
These puppies are learning: new person + strange thing + food + choice + success = the world is a good place.
Balance on mysterious moon surface (balance disc) and investigate rolling spaceshiP
ASTRONAUT OBJECTIVES (for the puppy): Develop a strong core so you can balance on all strange surfaces of the moon! Patrol the directive of the lunar mobile car as it rolls away and near you.
MISSION CONTROL INSTRUCTIONS (for the humans): Using a food lure, try to get the puppy to get onto the balance disc and stand. You can support the disc so it doesn’t wobble to much with one hand, or a 2nd person. Reward/treat frequently and “shape” toward the ultimate goal. Treat and praise if the puppy looks at disc, sniffs disc, puts one foot on disc etc. It may be quite possible that a pup never sets foot on the disc and that’s ok. The ultimate goal is to build trust working with a human. Shape toward this goal and reward small approximations as needed.
The toy car is a “pull back then roll” car. Try to make it as calm and non-threatening as possible (aiming away from puppy etc.) If it is too scary/too fast, just roll it around and let puppy sniff. Treat as the puppy sniffs and engages or notices the toy. Chase the rocket ship toy? That would be amazing but not required.
Goal of puppy party: Working with a stranger human being is safe and fun. That's actually the hidden heart of the entire puppy party. The ramp, wobble board, tunnel etc. are almost secondary.
These puppies are learning: new person + strange thing + food + choice + success = the world is a good place.
STATION 4: 👽 First Contact: Spaceship Fort & “Alien” Encounter
The puppy voluntarily enters a strange enclosed space to find food... and then encounters a first contact with alien civilization 😊 (a toy giraffe that talks ha ha).
ASTRONAUT OBJECTIVES (for the puppy): Discover a safe “fort” which has hidden treats on the floor! (Or in a magic hand that delivers 😉) Encounter a strange talking and super friendly “alien” giraffe.
MISSION CONTROL INSTRUCTIONS (for the humans): Using a food lure, try to get the puppy to to inside the fort (or if a child is managing the station, they can go inside the ‘spaceship’ fort and wait quietly.) Reward and treat the puppy inside the fort. You can place a few treats on the floor prior so they discover and get to enjoy. After this, (outside the spaceship fort) turn on the Talking Giraffe and allow the puppy to investigate. Treat and reward frequently. Allow the puppy to approach the toy but sometimes you have to ‘redirect’ their attention so they notice. You can pre-record their name perhaps or just try different sounds. Always, the goal is that completing tasks and discovering things with humans is safe, fun, and a wonderful thing to do! Never stressful or fearful. Unlike human children, puppies need to learn that strangers are not dangers.
Goal of puppy party: Working with a stranger human being is safe and fun. That's actually the hidden heart of the entire puppy party. The ramp, wobble board, tunnel etc. are almost secondary.
These puppies are learning: new person + strange thing + food + choice + success = the world is a good place.
The puppy voluntarily enters a strange enclosed space to find food... and then encounters a first contact with alien civilization 😊 (a toy giraffe that talks ha ha).
ASTRONAUT OBJECTIVES (for the puppy): Discover a safe “fort” which has hidden treats on the floor! (Or in a magic hand that delivers 😉) Encounter a strange talking and super friendly “alien” giraffe.
MISSION CONTROL INSTRUCTIONS (for the humans): Using a food lure, try to get the puppy to to inside the fort (or if a child is managing the station, they can go inside the ‘spaceship’ fort and wait quietly.) Reward and treat the puppy inside the fort. You can place a few treats on the floor prior so they discover and get to enjoy. After this, (outside the spaceship fort) turn on the Talking Giraffe and allow the puppy to investigate. Treat and reward frequently. Allow the puppy to approach the toy but sometimes you have to ‘redirect’ their attention so they notice. You can pre-record their name perhaps or just try different sounds. Always, the goal is that completing tasks and discovering things with humans is safe, fun, and a wonderful thing to do! Never stressful or fearful. Unlike human children, puppies need to learn that strangers are not dangers.
Goal of puppy party: Working with a stranger human being is safe and fun. That's actually the hidden heart of the entire puppy party. The ramp, wobble board, tunnel etc. are almost secondary.
These puppies are learning: new person + strange thing + food + choice + success = the world is a good place.
STATION 5: 🎹 Cosmic Composition — Wobble Board + Walk-on Keyboard
Discover a wobble board which introduces unstable footing, then create unexpected sounds by walking across the floor keyboard. It’s proprioception, cause-and-effect, and sound novelty all in one.
ASTRONAUT OBJECTIVES (for the puppy): Discover that unstable footing is not scary and you even get treats as a reward for your efforts! Discover that strange sounds are fun, and working with stranger humans is safe and awesome!
MISSION CONTROL INSTRUCTIONS (for the humans): Using a food lure, try to get the puppy to to get on the wobble board. You will need to secure it so it doesn’t wobble too much at all (you can place a foot under to keep more stationary, or an object, or a 2nd person could hold and secure). Gradually up the amount of ‘wobble’ the puppy encounters but they are too young now to navigate this solo (most likely). Reward the puppy with treats frequently. You can place some treats on the wobble board if that helps, or try to slowly lure using the food in your hand. Shape toward the ultimate goal. It is quite possible the puppy never even gets on the wobble board and that is ok. Treat if puppy looks at the wobble board, sniffs it, puts one foot on, etc. and reward approximations toward the final objective. Often it is good to allow the puppy to ‘come back to the safe place’ (off and near the wobble board – or in your lap lol) – reward and start again, versus trying to make them continuously move forward through the board. Move lure slowly. Reward frequently.
For the keyboard, repeat the luring process to try and get the puppy to walk across the keyboard. Yes, they might want to pee on it ha ha – if it seems like they are acting like they are about to have an accident, you can pickup and place on the pee pad. But, we have wipes for accidents 😉.
Discover a wobble board which introduces unstable footing, then create unexpected sounds by walking across the floor keyboard. It’s proprioception, cause-and-effect, and sound novelty all in one.
ASTRONAUT OBJECTIVES (for the puppy): Discover that unstable footing is not scary and you even get treats as a reward for your efforts! Discover that strange sounds are fun, and working with stranger humans is safe and awesome!
MISSION CONTROL INSTRUCTIONS (for the humans): Using a food lure, try to get the puppy to to get on the wobble board. You will need to secure it so it doesn’t wobble too much at all (you can place a foot under to keep more stationary, or an object, or a 2nd person could hold and secure). Gradually up the amount of ‘wobble’ the puppy encounters but they are too young now to navigate this solo (most likely). Reward the puppy with treats frequently. You can place some treats on the wobble board if that helps, or try to slowly lure using the food in your hand. Shape toward the ultimate goal. It is quite possible the puppy never even gets on the wobble board and that is ok. Treat if puppy looks at the wobble board, sniffs it, puts one foot on, etc. and reward approximations toward the final objective. Often it is good to allow the puppy to ‘come back to the safe place’ (off and near the wobble board – or in your lap lol) – reward and start again, versus trying to make them continuously move forward through the board. Move lure slowly. Reward frequently.
For the keyboard, repeat the luring process to try and get the puppy to walk across the keyboard. Yes, they might want to pee on it ha ha – if it seems like they are acting like they are about to have an accident, you can pickup and place on the pee pad. But, we have wipes for accidents 😉.
STATION 6: 🌌 Moon Rock Crater & Meteor Splash
Climb into the Moon Rock Crater and explore a mysterious Meteor Splash Pad.
ASTRONAUT OBJECTIVES (for the puppy): Discover that tunnels and odd unstable footing is fun and not scary! You even get treats when you enter and move through tunnels!
MISSION CONTROL INSTRUCTIONS (for the humans): Gently place the puppy into the ball pit and let it explore. Treat and reward frequently.
Using a food lure, invite the puppy to approach and step onto the Meteor Splash Pad. Reward looking, sniffing, approaching, touching with one paw, or stepping onto the pad. If a puppy is hesitant, simply let it investigate from a comfortable distance.
The more the puppy can do on its own, using luring techniques etc., the better as the ultimate goal is for the puppy to learn that learning new things alongside a stranger human is fun and safe.
Goal of puppy party: Working with a stranger human being is safe and fun. That's actually the hidden heart of the entire puppy party. The ramp, wobble board, tunnel etc. are almost secondary.
These puppies are learning: new person + strange thing + food + choice + success = the world is a good place.
Climb into the Moon Rock Crater and explore a mysterious Meteor Splash Pad.
ASTRONAUT OBJECTIVES (for the puppy): Discover that tunnels and odd unstable footing is fun and not scary! You even get treats when you enter and move through tunnels!
MISSION CONTROL INSTRUCTIONS (for the humans): Gently place the puppy into the ball pit and let it explore. Treat and reward frequently.
Using a food lure, invite the puppy to approach and step onto the Meteor Splash Pad. Reward looking, sniffing, approaching, touching with one paw, or stepping onto the pad. If a puppy is hesitant, simply let it investigate from a comfortable distance.
The more the puppy can do on its own, using luring techniques etc., the better as the ultimate goal is for the puppy to learn that learning new things alongside a stranger human is fun and safe.
Goal of puppy party: Working with a stranger human being is safe and fun. That's actually the hidden heart of the entire puppy party. The ramp, wobble board, tunnel etc. are almost secondary.
These puppies are learning: new person + strange thing + food + choice + success = the world is a good place.
Days 30-32 (Taping Ears, "Mastering" Gruel and Litterboxes!):
Introducing Gruel:
Week 3: Welcome to the Critical Socialization Period!
The Artemis Litter Begins Exploring the World
The Artemis puppies have reached one of the most exciting milestones in puppy development!
At approximately three weeks of age, puppies enter what canine behaviorists call the Critical Socialization Period—a remarkable developmental window that lasts until about twelve weeks of age. During this time, each positive experience helps shape the confident, curious companion your puppy will become.
The world has suddenly become much bigger. Tiny eyes and ears are now fully open, wobbly steps are becoming confident little toddles, personalities are beginning to emerge, and every day brings exciting new discoveries.
Rather than simply allowing these experiences to happen naturally, the Artemis puppies participate in a carefully planned socialization program designed to introduce new sights, sounds, textures, and challenges in a positive, age-appropriate way.
We concluded the ENS protocols on Day 16 but are continuing with daily experiences and new protocols.
Daily Novel Experiences
Every day introduces something new to investigate—a different toy, unusual object, moving decoration, or interesting household item. Curiosity is encouraged and rewarded.
A Rich Sound Environment
Classical music continues to play throughout the nursery, while the puppies are gradually introduced to recordings and real-life sounds including babies crying, household appliances, traffic, thunderstorms, animal noises, and everyday activities. Learning that these sounds are simply part of life helps build confident adults.
Startle-Recovery Exercises
Very gentle, carefully controlled surprises teach puppies that unexpected things happen—and that everything quickly returns to normal. This important skill helps build emotional resilience throughout life.
New Textures Under Tiny Paws
Each day brings a different surface to explore. Cork, corduroy, slick pans, textured fabrics, rubber mats, bubble wrap, and many other safe materials help develop confidence, coordination, and body awareness.
Extra Cuddle Time
The Artemis puppies are now enjoying at least three cuddle sessions every day, learning that human hands bring comfort, security, and affection.
Scent work
Each day (or most days) they get to experience a new set. Today was Rosemary! They had done this earlier before their eyes had opened as well but now things seems to "click" even more as their brain develops.
Toddling and learning to eliminate on their own
Yes, they look like drunk sailors! But it is so fun to watch. Stella continues to lick them after nursing sessions (which is necessary early on in order for them to eliminate) but they are toddling to the pee pads on the other side of the whelping box to eliminate! We will be adding a shallow litter box this week -- which we always introduce before they turn 4 weeks of age. This ensures success longterm, even though they still stumble a bit as they learn to walk.
Growing Appetites
As Stella's puppies continue to grow, we'll soon begin introducing goat's milk and, before long, their first puppy meals. This gradual transition supports healthy development while giving hardworking mama Stella a well-deserved break.
Every Day Matters -- The experiences these puppies have today will help prepare them for tomorrow's adventures—meeting children, visiting the veterinarian, riding in the car, exploring new places, learning tricks, and becoming cherished members of their future families.
By the time the Artemis puppies go home, they won't simply have been loved—they will have spent weeks participating in hundreds of carefully planned learning experiences through the our program, giving each puppy the best possible start toward a confident, happy life.
After all, we're not just raising beautiful pugs—we're raising confident companions, one tiny adventure at a time. ;)
I just had to create a piece for their entrance into the new stage ... but you can watch the same video without the music just below this one:
The Artemis Litter Begins Exploring the World
The Artemis puppies have reached one of the most exciting milestones in puppy development!
At approximately three weeks of age, puppies enter what canine behaviorists call the Critical Socialization Period—a remarkable developmental window that lasts until about twelve weeks of age. During this time, each positive experience helps shape the confident, curious companion your puppy will become.
The world has suddenly become much bigger. Tiny eyes and ears are now fully open, wobbly steps are becoming confident little toddles, personalities are beginning to emerge, and every day brings exciting new discoveries.
Rather than simply allowing these experiences to happen naturally, the Artemis puppies participate in a carefully planned socialization program designed to introduce new sights, sounds, textures, and challenges in a positive, age-appropriate way.
We concluded the ENS protocols on Day 16 but are continuing with daily experiences and new protocols.
Daily Novel Experiences
Every day introduces something new to investigate—a different toy, unusual object, moving decoration, or interesting household item. Curiosity is encouraged and rewarded.
A Rich Sound Environment
Classical music continues to play throughout the nursery, while the puppies are gradually introduced to recordings and real-life sounds including babies crying, household appliances, traffic, thunderstorms, animal noises, and everyday activities. Learning that these sounds are simply part of life helps build confident adults.
Startle-Recovery Exercises
Very gentle, carefully controlled surprises teach puppies that unexpected things happen—and that everything quickly returns to normal. This important skill helps build emotional resilience throughout life.
New Textures Under Tiny Paws
Each day brings a different surface to explore. Cork, corduroy, slick pans, textured fabrics, rubber mats, bubble wrap, and many other safe materials help develop confidence, coordination, and body awareness.
Extra Cuddle Time
The Artemis puppies are now enjoying at least three cuddle sessions every day, learning that human hands bring comfort, security, and affection.
Scent work
Each day (or most days) they get to experience a new set. Today was Rosemary! They had done this earlier before their eyes had opened as well but now things seems to "click" even more as their brain develops.
Toddling and learning to eliminate on their own
Yes, they look like drunk sailors! But it is so fun to watch. Stella continues to lick them after nursing sessions (which is necessary early on in order for them to eliminate) but they are toddling to the pee pads on the other side of the whelping box to eliminate! We will be adding a shallow litter box this week -- which we always introduce before they turn 4 weeks of age. This ensures success longterm, even though they still stumble a bit as they learn to walk.
Growing Appetites
As Stella's puppies continue to grow, we'll soon begin introducing goat's milk and, before long, their first puppy meals. This gradual transition supports healthy development while giving hardworking mama Stella a well-deserved break.
Every Day Matters -- The experiences these puppies have today will help prepare them for tomorrow's adventures—meeting children, visiting the veterinarian, riding in the car, exploring new places, learning tricks, and becoming cherished members of their future families.
By the time the Artemis puppies go home, they won't simply have been loved—they will have spent weeks participating in hundreds of carefully planned learning experiences through the our program, giving each puppy the best possible start toward a confident, happy life.
After all, we're not just raising beautiful pugs—we're raising confident companions, one tiny adventure at a time. ;)
I just had to create a piece for their entrance into the new stage ... but you can watch the same video without the music just below this one:
Day 19:
Here are some random photos from the 1st stage. Once their eyes open (often around Day 13) we will enter the transitional phase.
A few "just born" shots:
It was a long (36 hours) stage 1, so we were tired before the show even began. She was a trouper though and kept drinking her water and eating a bit as she could all along.
5/27/26 - radiograph confirms 6 pups:
On May 4th Stella visited Dr. Williams for an UltraSound which confirmed "atleast" 2 pups (heart beats). It was still quite early, though, and based upon her size now (5/24/26) we are guessing more. It all began back on April 1 ;) and things seem to be progressing fine so far. We will know for sure the total # (or "almost for sure") when we count spines in the Radiograph on May 27th at 1 PM! We are so excited about this litter. Her appetite is still holding on, though she is demanding more and more varied foods. I boiled a duck for her last night which she gobbled up ... but the next day she preferred the whole Sardines. The day before, she preferred beef and, one day, all she would eat was canned puppy food. Go figure lol. She always loves the chicken heart treats, but they are freeze-dried and we want her to eat more fresh foods. So far, all is going well so we are getting the usual nervous jitters around these last days/weeks.
The beginnings: Natural ties April 1, April 4, April 8, 2026
