Early Neurological Stimulation

Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS), is a method of applying gentle stressors to a very young animal for short periods. Some believe that ENS improves stress responses later in life. In early studies of ENS with rats, early handling (a mild stressor) resulted in pups with:

• decreased corticosterone (a stress hormone) when restrained
• less resistance to capture by a handler
• enhanced learning
• increased resistance to stress

The US Military adapted ENS (1968-1974) to improve the performance of military dogs. Their program, described by Battaglia, included specific touch strategies.   These touches were applied daily during a time of purported rapid brain development. The puppies in the program reportedly benefitted from:

• improved cardiovascular and adrenal gland function
• greater tolerance to stress
• resistance to disease

Recent research has found conflicting results. There is no current scientific agreement on the effects of ENS on dogs. Some studies have found few effects of ENS.

How ENS might work is not well understood. We also don’t know what type of handling (e.g., specific touch protocols vs brief removal of the pup from the nest) is most beneficial.

One possibility is that the stress of handling or removal from the nest is beneficial. However, removing pups from the nest changes the mother’s behavior. When pups return to the nest, she is more likely to lick, clean and touch them.

Take care when handling newborn puppies. It can be a stressor for them. Some stressors may be too intense and have a negative impact on a young, developing nervous system.

At this point, we don’t have enough research to say whether ENS is beneficial to puppies. We need clarification on whether ENS can improve neurological development and reduce stress.