Puppies older than 12 weeks are not necessarily something to avoid, but there are a few considerations to keep in mind before deciding to adopt one.

Here’s a quick breakdown of what to consider…

Pros of Adopting Puppies Older Than 12 Weeks

• More Socialized
  • Puppies older than 12 weeks may have had more time with their littermates and mother, allowing for better socialization. They’re often more confident and less prone to anxiety.
• Early Training
  • At this age, puppies might have started basic training (like housebreaking and crate training) and can be easier to teach than a younger puppy.
• Better Health Checks
  • Older puppies are more likely to have had their first vaccinations and vet checks, reducing health risks.
• Less Destructive Behavior
  • By 12 weeks, puppies might have outgrown some of the more destructive behaviors (like excessive chewing) that younger puppies tend to exhibit.

Cons of Adopting Puppies Older Than 12 Weeks

• Missed Critical Socialization Window
  • The first 12 weeks are the most critical for socialization. Puppies that haven’t been properly exposed to different people, environments, or situations during this period may develop behavioral issues like fear or aggression.
• Potential Behavior Issues
  • If a puppy hasn’t been well-socialized or trained by 12 weeks, they might develop unwanted behaviors or be harder to manage, requiring more effort to adjust to your home.
• More Difficult Transition
  • Older puppies might take longer to adjust to a new environment and could experience more anxiety than younger puppies, especially if they’ve already been through a few homes or environments.

Puppies older than 12 weeks can make wonderful pets, especially if they’ve been well-socialized and trained. If they haven’t had proper early socialization, they may require more time and effort to adjust and may have behavioral challenges. It’s important to assess the puppy’s background, temperament, and whether you’re ready for any extra work needed for socialization and training.