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What is the Best Puppy Age?Puppy age can make a difference in how well your new pup adjusts to your family. Make sure you understand how old your new puppy should be—to make it easier on you and on your new dog! Puppy Age is ImportantPuppies are born absolutely helpless. They are blind at birth and their eyes and ears are closed. For about 2 weeks, all they do is eat (nurse), sleep and occasionally crawl all over their mother and brothers and sisters.
Photo by John star 5112/flckr
Gradually they start to become aware of their world. They start to hear sounds and see light, then objects. They stay awake longer and play with their siblings. They start to show their personalities—wagging tails, yipping, yelping and poking at mom and the other pups. From about 2 weeks to 14 weeks of age is “critical”—it’s actually referred to as the “critical behavior period”. During this time the young dog learns how to behave with his mom, his brothers and sisters and, to a limited extent, with people. He learns his place in his “pack”—whether he will be a dominant or a submissive personality. He learns how to relate to other dogs and he learns “pack manners”. Mom plays a very important part in this education. Because this time is so important for your new pet, it’s best not to bring him to your home too soon. The old practice of adopting puppies at 6 weeks is not so common anymore.
Photo by Chad Miller, Orlando, FL
The best puppy age to bring your new puppy home is believed to be between 2 and 3 months. Your new puppy will benefit from the extra time with his dog pack, and the whole process will be easier for you as well. TOP of Page - Best Puppy Age Return to Puppy Care Home of Best Dog Treat Recipes
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