The right age to bring home a Labrador puppy is 8 weeks. With very small breeds, some breeders will want to keep the puppies for another three to four weeks after that. Brief periods of separation for necessary tasks like vet visits are generally okay. However, the puppy should be returned to its mother as soon as possible.
Early Separation Risks
When a puppy is pre-disposed to become fearful of other dogs, any time before 8 weeks can cause problems. Puppies learn not to bite from their mother and littermates. If a puppy must go home before 7 to 8 weeks of age, it should be "mentored" by an older puppy or tolerant dog.
Importance of Early Development
Taking a puppy away from its mother in the transitional stage (2-4 weeks) can create problems for later life. The first weeks of a pup’s life matter the most in acquiring normal behaviors. The end mark isn’t always the same with every dog.
Considerations for Rehoming
As a general rule, seven weeks is a little early for rehoming a puppy. However, before taking the pup away from his siblings and mother, there are a few ups and downs to consider.
The American Kennel Club recommends that a puppy should not be separated from their mother until they are 8 to 12 weeks old. In the early weeks of a puppy’s life, they are completely dependent on their mother.
Young puppies can begin to learn simple obedience commands as young as 7 to 8 weeks of age. But a young puppy shouldn’t be left alone for more than a few hours at a time. Puppies need breaks much more often than adult dogs!