The ideal age to bring a puppy home depends on various factors, but here’s a comparison between 8 weeks and 12 weeks…

8 Weeks

• Pros
  • Socialization – The critical period for socialization begins around 8 weeks, so it’s a great time to expose the puppy to new people, places, and experiences.
  • Bonding – Bringing the puppy home at 8 weeks allows you to establish a strong bond early on.
  • Teething – Puppies start teething around this time, and it’s easier to train them to chew on appropriate items.
• Cons
  • Separation Anxiety – Puppies may still miss their littermates, leading to more crying and stress during the first few days.
  • Training Challenges – At 8 weeks, puppies may not yet have the attention span for advanced training or potty training.

12 Weeks

• Pros
  • More Independence – By 12 weeks, puppies are usually more self-sufficient and less prone to separation anxiety than at 8 weeks.
  • Socialization – By this age, puppies are more confident and better able to handle new experiences, as they’ve had more time with their littermates and mom.
  • Health Checks – By 12 weeks, the puppy may have had initial vet visits, vaccinations, and parasite treatments, which can provide peace of mind.
• Cons
  • Potentially Less Socialized – If the breeder or shelter doesn’t do much early socialization, the puppy might be more fearful or reserved around new people and situations.
  • Longer Adjustment Period – Some puppies may take longer to adjust to a new home at 12 weeks compared to 8 weeks.

Both ages have their advantages. 8 weeks is great for early bonding and starting socialization, but 12 weeks can offer a more independent, well-adjusted puppy. If the puppy has had proper socialization, 12 weeks may be a better age, but if you’re committed to handling the challenges of early training, 8 weeks can also work well. It’s about your ability to support the puppy’s needs at each stage.