As Yorkiemom1 stated people did not just form a club and decide that 12 weeks is the best time for a Yorkie pup to go to it's new home. This is based on careful study by experts. I might add that this is not just the reccommended age for Yorkies. All breeds are more physically and emotionally ready to face the world at 12 weeks. Careful observation comes in when a puppy may actually need to stay with the breeder even longer. Beyond that a person who is breeding to produce quality show and breeding stock cannot properly evaluate their potential at such a young age.
I used to show and breed Himalayan cats and the reccommended age for them to leave the mom is around 12 to 13 weeks. I'm sure that sounds strange as cats are supposed to be more independent than dogs. Just like a puppy they can survive at 6 to 10 weeks but they are not really physically or psychologically ready to leave and be thrown into a foreign situation. Just like puppies they cry and are anxious about new situations before that age. The extra time with mom and the litter mates is vital. Something happens around 12 to 13 weeks that awakens their ability and desire to explore and accept new situations.
I'm sure your family members are anxious to get their new puppies as we all are when we anticipate a new puppy but give the best interest of the babies the consideration they need.
Vet's have a lot of medical knowledge but many of them know precious little about the breeding and raising of these creatures. |