We are often asked about our puppy training and socialization program. Much of our approach is inspired by Puppy Prodigies, an incredible organization and a true pioneer in the psychology of early puppy development. They offer wonderful reading for anyone who wants to understand the science behind raising confident, well-adjusted puppies.

At Strike Golden, we follow a series of developmental milestones that guide how we work with each puppy as they grow. Puppies enter the world with a fully developed sense of smell, even though their eyes and ears are still closed. During the first two weeks, their senses develop rapidly. Their nose is their primary tool for finding their mother, locating littermates, and navigating their immediate environment.

Puppies typically open their eyes around 9–11 days old. Vision is blurry at first while the retinas continue developing and sharpening. Their ears remain sealed until about 13–17 days, at which point they begin responding more actively to sound. Between 2–4 weeks of age, puppies start exhibiting early social behaviors—growling, biting, tail wagging, and their first tiny barks.

At Strike Golden, our puppies are never kept in kennels—nor will they ever be. They grow up in our home, surrounded by everyday life, love, and hands-on attention. From the moment they are born, we begin gentle, purposeful training to help each puppy reach their full potential. Our program incorporates the latest approaches in socialization, early neurological stimulation, pack interaction, proper dog-to-dog communication, and calm overnight routines.

If you’re interested in one of our upcoming litters or would simply like to learn more, I’d love to talk with you.
Please feel free to call me at 763-458-6470.

During each stage of sensory development, our puppies are gently exposed to a variety of sights, sounds, toys, textures, music, and even everyday household items like blow dryers. The goal is to stimulate early brain development, giving them the best foundation to learn, grow, and thrive as adults.

Many of our puppies go on to excel in beginning obedience classes, often progressing with ease. Of course, their full potential is met only with the love and guidance of a devoted human. That’s why we recommend and ask all of our families to enroll in at least one puppy class before their puppy turns four months old. Early training allows both dog and human to learn how to communicate effectively, build a strong bond, and develop a lifelong partnership. Every relationship is unique, there are no cookie-cutter dogs and no cookie-cutter humans.

We rely on positive reinforcement to teach skills and strengthen trust between our puppies and their people. This approach ensures learning is rewarding, enjoyable, and helps nurture confident, well-adjusted dogs.