Puppy Raising Process

While we have not yet had our first litter, our puppy-raising program has been thoughtfully planned with care.

At Portside Standard Poodles, raising puppies is more than a process, it’s a promise. Every puppy we welcome into the world will be raised with intention, structure, and a whole lot of love. From health testing that exceeds the standard to a thoughtful placement process, we plan to prepare our puppies to thrive wherever life’s voyage takes them.

We believe healthy puppies start with healthy parents. That’s why all of our breeding dogs will be tested well above CHIC (Canine Health Information Center) requirements. Nothing is overlooked when it comes to protecting our dogs and the families who welcome them.

Health Tested Beyond The Standard

Poodles are one of the most versatile, beautiful breeds, and grooming is a lifelong part of their care. That’s why we start young, making grooming second nature for our puppies.

At Portside, they will experience regular brushing and combing, nail trims, and other routine care. Baths and blow-drying are introduced early so the sounds and sensations aren’t scary, and puppies will receive face, feet, and sanitary trims to help them become comfortable with clippers and scissors.

By the time your puppy sets sail for their new home, they’re already seasoned sailors on the grooming table.

Grooming Foundations

Puppy Culture & ENS/ESI

All of our puppies will be raised with the Puppy Culture program, alongside Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS) and Early Scent Introduction (ESI). These aren’t just buzzwords, they’re intentional exercises that shape confident, adaptable dogs. ENS helps puppies build resilience to stress, ESI sparks curiosity and strengthens their brains, and Puppy Culture provides a proven roadmap for socialization, problem-solving, and bonding. Together, these early experiences chart the course for puppies who are steady, curious, and ready for adventure.

🎓 Prepared for Success

  • Crate basics.

    Gives puppies a safe, comfortable space of their own. This makes house training, travel, and adjusting to new homes much easier.

  • Car rides

    Car rides

    Early exposure prevents motion anxiety and builds confidence outside the home. Puppies learn that new places and travel are safe and positive.

  • Problem-solving games

    Gentle challenges encourage curiosity and resilience. Puppies gain confidence by working through new situations calmly.

  • Noise desensitization

    Noise desensitization

    Exposure to sounds like vacuums, clattering dishes, and doorbells teaches puppies to stay calm around everyday household activity.

  • People & dogs

    Interaction with a variety of people and well-mannered dogs builds trust, adaptability, and confidence in any environment.