Originally Posted by samaria

Puppies should never be taken from their mother until they are at least eight weeks old. some breeds can be more advanced than others and the difference of a week can mean the difference between being self sufficient and being able to eat, drink and socialise or still being close to the mother and wary of adults and other dogs.Eight weeks is the minimum age for a puppy to leave the litter. It is also illegal in some states/areas for breeders to sell any puppy under the age of eight weeks. For maximum benefits though, it really is best to wait until twelve weeks before separating a pup from his mother and littermates. Puppies learn restraint and proper pay, including some bite inhibition from each other. For a well adjusted family member, leave him with his family until he's twelve weeks old.