I have 4 Minature-Dachshund puppies that are almost 3 weeks old. I know it is way to early right now to let their new owners take them. When is the average age they are taken away from their mothers.
Puppies shouldn’t leave Mom until they’re at least eight weeks of age, and there are actually some good reasons why veterinarians recommend this.
Dogs, just like people, develop social skills as babies. Puppies pick up some critical information during those first two months, from interactions with their littermates and with their mother. They learn appropriate responses and boundaries in play. It makes for easier to train and more socialable dog in most instances.
Another reason is the overall health of the dog. At eight weeks of age, our puppies have, through the course of nursing, acquired whats called “maternally derived antibodies”. This is a fancy way of saying they’ve obtained superior immune systems and immune responses to some common infectious diseases through a substance in Mom’s milk called colostrum. It’s more likely that they’ll respond well to vaccinations after they’re sent off to their new homes.
Good for you, investigating before you rehome your new pups. I’m sure you’ve got some great families lined up - what an exciting time! Have fun these next few weeks, and take lots of pictures!
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The average age is 6 to 8 weeks. Once the mother starts to kinda wean them herself is also a good time. To feel completely safe try between 8 to 10 weeks old. They will do great. The longer you wait after 10 weeks the harder it will be for you to let them go. & you don’t want to dissapoint the new owners.
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When they are properly weaned. Some breeders let the pups go at 6 weeks, but I think they are much better to be kept until they are 8 weeks.