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Originally Posted by joyce evans  I've had dogs all of my life both mutt & pure. After being on this site for the last few months I'm sure learning some things. I too picked up my pup at 8 weeks but I didn't know any better. Not sure if this is a Yorkie thing or if it should apply to all. I picked up my Min Pin when she was 5 weeks old because her mom got bit by a snake. Lots of people sell or let go of pups at 6 & 8 weeks. My pup is fine but I still watch her like a hawk. Can someone tell me if this 12 week rule should apply to all puppies?? |
I have a hard time finding any information on line or otherwise that states that the 12 week rule way of thinking and doing is best. Other than the strong opinions of members and some known breeders here on YT. Not even my vet who three out of the four Doctors are certified in small breeds says that keeping a pup until they reach the age of 12 weeks is a must. I believe that is should be based on each individual puppies progress, not just because the puppy is a small breed pup. Puppies progress at different rates than another one in the same litter. Therefor you cant just lump them into on category just for the pure fact of size and breed.
Here is a link that states that:
"Dogs are considered puppies from birth to one year of age and go through several puppy stages and development periods. However, each dog develops differently, with smaller dogs tending to mature earlier and some large breeds not physically mature before they are two years old."
Newborn Puppy Development - Stages of Puppy Development