Lecture: Marlene Veiss-Pedersen

Time Tuesday 20:00–21:30

Held at Valhalla

Access Open for Red Group

Shaping the mentally healthy puppy – genetics, environment and early learning

This workshop offers an insightful look into the foundations of a mentally healthy puppy and the breeder’s important role in early development. The session will open with a brief introduction to the concept of puppy mental health, followed by a look at how both genetics and early environmental influences help shape a puppy’s temperament.

The main focus will be on early stimulation and socialisation, including the Bio Sensor programme in relation to the dam’s role, as well as Pat Schaap’s Rules of 7 and the breeder’s responsibility in providing the right early experiences. Practical examples from the speaker’s own breeding programme will illustrate how structured early development supports confident, resilient puppies.

The second part of the workshop will focus on puppy testing. Different testing methods will be presented and compared, along with reflections on why testing is valuable and how the results can be used — both in breeding decisions and in matching puppies with the right future owners.

Participants will gain practical knowledge and inspiration for working consciously with early development, with the aim of supporting each puppy’s mental health and long-term potential.

Marlene Veiss-Pedersen

I have always had a strong interest in canine behavior, which naturally led me towards working with puppies and puppy testing. Through a training module with a highly skilled behavior consultant, followed by an apprenticeship in puppy testing, I have been testing puppies since 2006 and have assessed approximately 800 puppies.

I have been a member of the Danish Retriever Club since 1999, but my journey with dogs began in the Danish Home Guard, where I participated in the dog program. My first litter was born in May 2008, and in total I have bred 98 puppies by 11 litters.

I am very much looking forward to sharing my knowledge and experience with you and to contributing to the exciting discussions at the Curly World Seminar.