50% OFF for the 1st Night if your puppy is with us for at least 2 nights!
"Where Southern Pups Learn and Lounge."
This is only Day 12 of Ryder (11 week puppy) learning basic cues like: Sit, down, stand, coming to me when I say his name.
Video
Ryder is overcoming his fear of the stairs!
Today, he's running up and down them like he's been doing for his whole life!
The day I picked Ryder up from the breeder in Pennsylvania! Most appreciation to Ryder's breeder Ridley's Red Retrievers LLC
Welcome the new The Southern Pup Stop mascots! They are tough negotiators, as Cali and Ryder are receiving 2 carrot sticks bonuses each week!
Additional services are offered:
Enrichments
Enrichments
Enrichments
Playing food games, puzzles, treats
Dog enrichment is extremely important—both for a dog’s mental well-being and their behavior. Enrichment goes beyond exercise; it gives dogs healthy outlets to think, sniff, explore, and problem-solve, which directly impacts their happiness and overall quality of life.
Here’s why it matters:
🧠 Mental Stimulation Prevents Boredom & Destructive Behaviors
Dogs need mental challenges just like people. Without it, they may create their own “fun” (chewing furniture, barking, digging, etc.).
🐾 Encourages Natural Behaviors
Enrichment allows dogs to safely engage in natural instincts like sniffing, shredding, licking, and foraging—which helps reduce frustration and stress.
💛 Builds Confidence
For shy or anxious dogs, enrichment activities (like puzzle toys or sniff walks) provide safe ways to explore and gain confidence at their own pace.
🔁 Strengthens Training and Focus
Enrichment makes training more effective. A mentally satisfied dog is more likely to focus, retain information, and respond calmly in new situations.
Examples of Enrichment:
- Puzzle feeders, lick mats, snuffle mats
- Scent games or “find it” treat hunts
- Enrichment walks (slow-paced sniff-heavy strolls)
- Frozen KONGs or safe chews
- Training games, light agility, or obstacle fun
Grooming
Enrichments
Enrichments
Nail trimming, bathing, teeth brushing
Grooming is more than just keeping your dog looking good—it’s a vital part of their overall health, comfort, and well-being. Whether it’s a quick brush or a full spa day, regular grooming supports your dog’s physical health, emotional comfort, and even behavior.
✨ Why Grooming Matters
🐾 Health Check in Disguise
Brushing, bathing, and nail trims allow early detection of lumps, bumps, skin issues, parasites, or injuries that might otherwise go unnoticed.
🧼 Healthy Skin & Coat
Regular grooming removes dirt, dander, and loose fur while distributing natural oils—keeping your dog’s coat shiny and their skin healthy. It also helps prevent painful matting and hot spots, especially in long-haired breeds.
✂️ Nail Trims = Joint Health
Overgrown nails can alter a dog’s posture and gait, leading to joint stress or discomfort. Keeping nails trimmed helps your dog walk properly and reduces the risk of breaks or infections.
🧘♂️ Comfort & Confidence
Dogs feel more comfortable and confident when they’re clean and mat-free. Grooming also reduces itchiness, shedding, and discomfort—making them calmer and happier.
🐕🦺 Behavioral Benefits
Dogs used to gentle handling through grooming are less likely to react fearfully at the vet, during baths, or when touched. It can become a bonding and trust-building routine.
Walks
Enrichments
Walks
Walks through the neighborhood
Walks are one of the most essential parts of a dog’s daily life—they’re not just about burning off energy, but also about meeting a dog’s physical, mental, and emotional needs. A good walk is like a workout, a meditation session, and a social experience all rolled into one.
🚶♂️ Why Walks Matter
🐕 Physical Exercise = Healthier Dogs
Daily walks help maintain a healthy weight, support heart and joint health, and reduce the risk of obesity-related diseases. For most dogs, walks are their main form of regular movement.
🧠 Mental Stimulation Through Sniffing
Dogs experience the world through their noses. Sniffing on walks is like reading the news for them—it engages their brain and helps reduce stress and boredom.
🌎 Real-World Exposure & Confidence
Walks expose dogs to new sights, sounds, people, and other dogs. This builds social confidence and resilience, especially for puppies or anxious dogs learning about the world.
🧘 Reduces Anxiety and Behavioral Issues
A well-walked dog is calmer, more focused, and less likely to develop behavior problems like chewing, barking, or hyperactivity at home. Walks provide a healthy outlet for energy and emotion.
🤝 Strengthens the Bond With You
Leash walks are a great time to practice communication and build trust. When done with patience and consistency, they reinforce your relationship and mutual understanding.
Even just a 15–30 minute walk can make a huge difference in your dog’s day!