Single puppy
 

I am looking into purchasing a particular 11 wk. old puppy.
This male puppy is the sole surviving puppy of the birth. My question here is what might be the outcome of him not having the opportunity to share the interactions of other litter mates? Also I already have a 2yr. old female and with him spending his entire life with only his mother will he treat my female as his mother? Would this whole experience end up good or bad?

A singleton pup should have no socialization problems if the breeder has provided this pup with the proper socialization skills. Keeping in mind that the dam is the one that provides all the skills necessary for it from weeks 8 through 12. How a pup is raised in the breeders home is crucial. The breeder should know when to introduce the pup to humans, noise, tastes, potty training, grooming and other animals within a household is crucial in properly allowing this pup to transition into a new environment. Other factors fit in too; is the pup eating well, has he been vet checked, a minimum of 2 innoculations.

The possibility of his adopting your female as his mother during his puppy stage exists, but will gradually go away as he gets older.

When I have pups, and introducing them to other dogs in my house, I usually only allow my females with them. I do this to not have a pup's self confidence be hurt. Males tend to be a bit more assertive.

All should be fine, if you feel comfortable with the breeder, developed a relationship and know that she will be there for you. Are you comfortable with the breeder's contract. In other words you buy your breeder first and your pup 2nd. The transaction should not end when you walk out the door with your pup. The relationship should be there for the rest of that pup's life.

Glad you are doing your homework before you take that step.

well said Mary............yes he will probably think she is his mommy for a bit...but if you give him time away from here often...he should develop a relationship of being buddies instead of family with her very soon...........so glad you are asking questions before buying........so many buy first and regret it later cause of things not going well that they could have known before buying....i truely think he will be fine and adjust quickly....biggest thing is that he is healthy and happy.