2J 2K Border Collies | Maremma Sheepdogs

📸 Throwback Moment These photos were captured when the puppies were still in their neonatal stage , eyes closed, ears sealed, but already learning how to be strong through sleep. It's one of the many quiet miracles of responsible, intentional puppy raising. 💤 Why Do Puppies Twitch While They Sleep? (And Why It’s a Good Sign) If you’ve ever watched newborn puppies sleep, you’ve probably noticed they twitch, wiggle, or gently "pop" like a little bag of popcorn. 🍿 This isn’t random; it’s called activated sleep, and it plays a vital role in early development. When our Maremma Sheepdog puppies are just days old, before their eyes or ears open, their bodies are already preparing for life outside the whelping box. But here’s the challenge: newborns spend nearly all their time sleeping, which makes it difficult to develop the muscle strength needed to stand, walk, or nurse effectively. That’s where activated sleep comes in. During this phase, the puppies’ brains send tiny electrical impulses to their muscles, similar to the electrical stimulation therapy used in humans who are bedridden. ⚡️ These subtle pulses create small, involuntary muscle contractions, which gradually help the puppies build strength and coordination. Another essential part of this early sleep stage is myelination, the process of coating the puppy’s nerves with a protective sheath (called myelin) that allows electrical signals to travel faster and more efficiently. Myelination is critical to healthy brain and muscle development. These twitchy movements are a visible sign that the nervous system is becoming organized and functional, setting the stage for everything from walking to problem-solving later in life. We watch for this movement in our litters because activated sleep is a key sign of healthy neuromuscular development. It means the puppy’s nervous system is maturing, their muscles are being stimulated naturally, and their body is progressing exactly as it should. In our program, we emphasize early neurological development, and activated sleep is one of the earliest ways we see those systems at work. Whether you’re raising a livestock guardian dog for your farm or welcoming a Maremma puppy as a family companion, these developmental milestones set the foundation for a strong, resilient dog.

A Look Back at Week 1 with the Skyborne Litter 🐾 Meet Lark, Heron, Falco, Piper, Swan, Dove, and Wren; our Maremma Sheepdog pups from the Skyborne Litter, nestled into their first week of life. These little guardians are raised on Vet Fleece because it provides a soft, supportive surface that promotes healthy joint and hip development right from birth, and because staying dry and clean is essential for their comfort and early neurological well-being. We start introducing safe novelty items early, like these adorable carrots 🥕 because even before their eyes and ears open, puppies rely heavily on touch and smell to explore the world around them, and because that early sensory stimulation helps build stronger, more confident pups for their future, whether as dedicated livestock guardians or loyal family companions. 🐑🏡 We use every moment in these early days with intention, because we believe thoughtful beginnings create resilient, trustworthy livestock guardians and devoted family companions, and because your future partner deserves that level of care. 🤍 From Day 1, we set the stage for healthy growth. Our puppies are nestled on USA-made Vet Fleece, a thick, non-toxic, non-allergenic bedding designed to: Wick away moisture Prevent bacterial growth Support healthy hip and joint development Provide cushion and traction for early mobility

Raising Confident, Well-Adjusted Puppies Through Early Enrichment 🐾✨ Our puppies aren’t just growing—they’re learning! Each day, we introduce them to new sights, sounds, and textures through a carefully designed curriculum that helps them develop into confident, well-adjusted dogs. From Wobble Wag Giggle Balls that make fun noises to soft snuffle mats that encourageproblem-solving, & provide interesting textures (treats will be added later!), we expose our puppies to a variety of sensory experiences. They walk on different surfaces, interact with new objects, and engage in activities that stimulate their minds and bodies. Why This Matters 🐶 Confidence Building – Puppies who experience controlled challenges early on learn to adapt and recover from novelty, making them more resilient in new situations. 🐾 Reduced Fear Responses – By introducing different textures, sounds, and movement at a young age, our puppies are less likely to develop fears or anxieties as they grow. 🧠 Mental Stimulation – Engaging their senses helps develop cognitive skills, making for smarter, more trainable, and well-behaved dogs. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Smooth Transitions to New Homes – Puppies raised with enrichment adapt more easily to household noises, new environments, and family routines. How We Stand Out We don’t just raise puppies—we shape them into dogs that will thrive in their new homes. Every experience is intentional, ensuring that each puppy receives the best foundation possible. Whether they go on to be working dogs, adventure buddies, or cherished family companions, they’re equipped with the confidence and adaptability to excel.

The precious pups enjoyed a relaxing spa day! 🥰 They were all so calm and wonderfully well-behaved. Starting early with positive bathing experiences helps set them up for a lifetime of success and confidence.