Wait till pup is 8 weeks old before taking it from its mum

For their proper development, puppies should stay with their mothers until they are at least eight weeks old so that they are fully and correctly weaned. Also it plays a vital role in their social and behavioural development. — 123rf.com

Separating a puppy from its mother too early may have long-term consequences on physiological and behavioural development that risks behavioural problems later in life, a major reason why dogs are given up or left in shelters, warns the author of a linked comment.

One in four puppies in the United Kingdom may be being acquired before the recommended minimum age, a figure that is considerably higher than what has been reported before, suggests research published in the latest edition of Vet Record.