[concretegurl]

I think breed specific experts are more important than well known "dog" experts and behaviorists are more knowledgeable on this topic than trainers...

Originally Posted by yakkwak

I'm glad I ran across this thread. It brings up a question I've been mulling over. It sounds like the overwhelming majority are saying that it is unsafe to bring home a puppy before 10-12 weeks for physiological reasons, particularly for the smaller pups. Let's assume (and I am) that this is correct. How does this fit in with known "experts" that say generally that a puppy is well into a very formative period by that age and should get a lot of individual care and behavior training (not necessarily though ready for rugged potty training physiologically). If it is also true that very FEW breeders are able to give that depth of time (imagine just one large litter) and attention, and that it is also true that the breeder cannot substitute for the owner (I hate that word, but am using for lack of a better one) when it comes to bonding and introducing the structure of the new home, then can one logically assume that toy breeds like the Yorkies are, by nature, at a disadvantage when it comes to maximizing the socializing of a pup (this doesn't mean no socializing!)? In other words, how much importance do you place on the psychological & social health during this critical period? Inquiring minds want to know - I guess because of my behavior training background, it is important for me to hear opinions about this. Do some breeders think that perhaps the Yorkie pup is behind (slow to mature) developmentally in these areas so that they are not "missing" opportunities in critical periods by staying with the breeder for up to 12-14 weeks?
I dealt with something similar when I purchased my macaw baby. Only because of my past experience in breeding parrots, was I allowed to take home my macaw before he was fully weaned. This gave me the advantage of beginning socializing/behavior training/bonding at a very critical, early developmental stage while not jeopardizing his health.
Whatcha think???? Am truly curious to hear sound opinions!! I dont' see much emphasis in the posts I've read about these factors. Thanks!
PS: Some of the experts I was referring to include Ian Dunbar & Nicholas Dodman.