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Originally Posted by shell820810  Can I just add, I got Millie at 14 weeks, because I read on here over 12 weeks was best. Millie was very independent, and was until she died. I sometimes wonder if we had gotten her a bit earlier, when she was a bit more needy, would she have been more affectionate. |
I think Millie's independence was more a personality trait than a result of her being kept by the breeder longer.
Though there seems to be differences from country to country on how long to keep a pup, my personal experience favors keeping them longer. The Maltese info posted earlier is quite true for Yorkies, too.
Even though you received a referral from a good source, the breeder is not experienced and may not be able to evaluate whether any given pup is properly thriving or not. Since you got your Millie at 14 weeks, you don't have experience with a younger pup, either. The period from 8 to 12 weeks can be a vulnerable time for a pup so, if they're doing well at the breeder's, it may be best to have them stay a bit longer.
I would feel more comfortable getting a pup from a more experienced breeder but you know best about the choices available where you are. Getting a pup from good lines is great but a healthy pup is most important. Whatever your choice, I hope there is a health guarantee with the pup. Best of luck in whatever you choose.