The first several weeks of a puppy’s life are essential for both physical and emotional development of a dog. The mother provides vital nutrition, necessary warmth and personal care. Taking a puppy away from its mother should be done gradually, if possible. It should start when the pup is about 4 weeks old, and finish when the pooch is between 7 to 8 weeks of age.
Mom knows best
The mother gives them her undivided attention and provides adequate sustenance. After the 4 weeks are over, the transition to solid food can gradually begin.
Since pup’s vision and hearing begins to function as late as 3 or 4 weeks of age, and it takes several more weeks to develop completely, one should wait until the pup is 8 weeks old before taking it away from its litter. This way you are definitely on the safe side.
Socialization
Also, a puppy learns quite a lot while in the litter. As they develop, their mates actually teach them how to behave and interact with other dogs. They learn precious canine signals that will keep them safe when they are older.
This process of canine socialization cannot commence before the puppies’ senses starts developing and become functional. Learning what is the appropriate reaction and what is socially expected in the doggy world when encountering a dominant canine, and also learning how to give appropriate signals, provide a puppy with necessary skills they need to prevent fights and altercations later on in life.