For their proper development, puppies should stay with their mothers until they are at least eight weeks old so that they are fully and correctly weaned. Also it plays a vital role in their social and behavioural development. — 123rf.com
Separating a puppy from its mother too early may have long-term consequences on physiological and behavioural development that risks behavioural problems later in life, a major reason why dogs are given up or left in shelters, warns the author of a linked comment.
One in four puppies in the United Kingdom may be being acquired before the recommended minimum age, a figure that is considerably higher than what has been reported before, suggests research published in the latest edition of Vet Record.
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