Is it wrong to purchase a puppy this young?



Is it wrong to buy a puppy at 6 weeks of age? Will be given all vaccinations can be up to that age before they leave the breeder. We also have another dog who is 1 years and 4 months to wait for the link a. In my state, it is not illegal to buy a puppy that age, and most farmers in my area sell their puppies at this age.

10 Responses to “Is it wrong to purchase a puppy this young?”

  1. Jennifer T Says:

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    Yes, it IS wrong. Just your asking the question makes me believe you know that deep in your heart. This puppy needs its mother and siblings to teach it respect and so it will learn important social behaviors like bite inhibition. Taking it too soon will only make it harder to train to be an acceptable pet.

    ADDED: Amy D’s answer is LOADED with misinformation. Dogs don’t get worms from being handled. 3 1/2 weeks to rehome is utter foolishness! Ugh!

  2. Lyn B Says:

    Create a video blog…instantly.

    6 to 8 weeks seems to be the accepted norm. But puppies learn a lot from mom and litter mates and I prefer 8 to 10 weeks. But as soon as they are on solid food they can leave mom. But then you have to be mom and teach them dog behavior.

    good luck

  3. metallic Says:

    Create a video blog…instantly.

    That’s fine. I know it might be young, but s/he’ll be fine. Just remember to give it a little bit more attention in the next two to four weeks.

    At 6 weeks the puppy should be weened and be able to eat atleast semi solid foods or you can water down their kibble or give canned food until they can eat solids.

  4. busybody123 Says:

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    6 weeks is the cusp of readiness. I think it depends on the size of the breed somewhat. 8 weeks is pretty normal, but 6 is the earliest possible for best results. I think you can do it, but can you buy the dog now and have it stay with mom for another week or two? The older dog should bond with the puppy well either way. You could ask the vet that takes care of your current dog, but I got my dog at 6 weeks with no ill effect. (we had lots of crying at first, but I think that goes with the territory)

  5. katslookup Says:

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    No, Personally, I don’t let mine go until they are between 10 – 12 weeks old. In most toy breeds, they shouldn’t leave until they reach that age.

    However, larger breeds are able to be sent to their new home at 8 weeks.

  6. I know..I'm a genius. Says:

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    8 weeks. vets don’t give shots to 6 week old puppies.

  7. ainawgsd Says:

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    Yes. While puppies this young are physically fine being removed from their mother and litter it will have a life-long negative effect on the dog’s mental well being. It takes a dog of exceptional temperament/personality to turn out normal if removed from their mother/litter at this age…and let’s face it, the people selling the pups at this age are NOT keeping their puppies best interest in mind let alone breeding for exceptional temperament above all else. Dogs removed at this age are MUCH more likely to be fearful, aggressive, overly reactive, or just plain neurotic than dogs left with their mother and litter until they are 8-12 weeks old (large breeds like German shepherds really do best if left with their mother/litter until 12 weeks). Many behavioral problems that arise in these dogs could have been prevented entirely by simply leaving them with their mother for another two weeks. Ask any certified animal behaviorist and they will tell you that it’s just not worth the potential heartache just to bring puppy home two weeks early.

  8. Liz Says:

    Create a video blog…instantly.

    Leaving a puppy with it’s litter until 8 weeks is best. He may not necessarily need his mother for milk or any additional shots for another week or so, but for the social aspect it’s best for a puppy to interact with his littermates until he is at least 8 weeks.

  9. Curtis D Says:

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    as long as you have the time to spend caring for a youngster. At this age he/she will require a lot of attention. Some of your decision should also consider what the breed is. All breeds have different characteristics or early age independence. It would be in your best interest to visit your local Petsmart or library and look for a book/magazine on the particular breed you are considering. Once you feel comfortable about adding to your family, have fun. Puppies can a joyful experience as long as you are patient

  10. redneckcowgirlmo Says:

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    It’s way to young to leave home, a puppy should be 8 weeks. This helps the puppy to develop socialization skills with other dogs. I’m a breeder & my puppies never leave home til 8 weeks of age.