how we raise puppies

Happy puppy sitting on grass in a park with trees in background.

At von der Schäfers Weg, we believe in being both passionate and transparent about how we raise our Dutch Shepherd puppies. We follow proven protocols—like Puppy Culture and AviDog—to promote early neurological strength, environmental confidence, and problem-solving ability. These methods help us shape well-rounded puppies, but it’s important to acknowledge that even with the best practices, genetics and individual variation play a role.

That said, we also recognize the reality of breeding within a developing gene pool. Despite consistent, well-planned structure and socialization, not every puppy will meet the same threshold of working potential or temperament. However, we remain committed to continual learning, honest communication, and producing puppies who are prepared to thrive in the right homes.

We share openly with our puppy families, and we stand by every dog we produce. Raising great dogs takes more than a program—it takes commitment, humility, and honest relationships.

Developmental Approach

We raise our litters with purpose and intention, tailored to each stage of the puppy’s growth.

A group of newborn brindle puppies sleeping on a soft white blanket.

NeoNatal period
(0-2 weeks)

During the first days of life, we focus on gentle handling and a calm, sanitary environment. We begin Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS) exercises to support healthy brain and nervous system development. Puppies are weighed daily, monitored closely, and kept near mom in a low-stress setting.

Puppy resting on a plush toy

transitional period
(2-3 weeks)

Eyes and ears begin to open, and the puppies become more aware of their surroundings. We gradually introduce gentle sounds, visual stimulation, and short periods of human interaction to ease their transition into the sensory world.

Two puppies standing on a metal grate in a fenced outdoor area with grass.

Critical socialization
(4-8+ weeks)

This is the most important developmental window in a puppy’s life—and we maximize every day. Introduction to new objects, textures, challenges, sounds and problem solving games. We also begin potty training, crate familiarity and positive exposure to grooming, leash walks, and car rides.

Our Training Tools
& Philosophy

We use a combination of two puppy development systems—Puppy Culture and AviDog—to give our puppies a strong foundation for life.

These programs focus on building confident, curious, adaptable dogs by providing age-appropriate challenges, structured socialization, and positive exposure to new environments. Our puppies experience:

  • Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS)

  • Early Scent Introduction (ESI)

  • Novel textures, surfaces, and objects

  • Problem-solving and confidence-building games

  • Sound desensitization and environmental conditioning

  • Handling exercises to reduce fear of touch or restraint

  • Introduction to crate training, car rides, and basic manners

These carefully timed activities help shape puppies who are emotionally resilient, physically capable, and better prepared for the challenges of life. Whether destined for an active family, a performance sport, or a working role, the goal is for each puppy to leave us with a strong foundation that future training can build on.

You can learn more about the programs we follow here:

A playful puppy interacting with a pine cone on grassy ground with blurred trees in the background.

“The breeder can indeed lay the foundations of a good and serviceable dog but the trainer must see to it that he brings to their highest possible development the physical and mental foundations already laid and thus his is the more grateful task.”

— Max von Stephanitz