Help your dog prepare for her puppies leaving

When should your puppies leave for their new homes?

Your puppies must be at least 8 weeks old before they are separated from their mum (unless under veterinary advice). However, the average age varies around the world and attitudes are shifting amongst vets, behaviourists and breeders towards keeping litters and dams together until 12 weeks. 

If you are advised to bottle feed the puppies by a vet due to their, or their mum’s health, it is still very important for them to spend time with her and their siblings. They should not be sent to their new homes before 8 weeks. 

The quality and quantity of maternal care your pups receive will have a lifelong impact on their physical and emotional health so the importance of this period cannot be overstated.

How to prepare for puppies leaving mum

Before your puppies are born, you should have a socialisation schedule planned. Within days of birth the puppies should get used to being handled gently by the family. Over the following weeks they need to have positive experiences and carefully controlled exposure to different people, animals, objects, sounds and smells (whilst ensuring they are not exposed to any unvaccinated dogs or areas used by such dogs). This is even more important if your puppies are staying with you until 12 weeks because puppies find it easiest to get used to new things before 16 weeks old (this is not set in stone, and dogs certainly can still learn about the world after this, but it’s not as easy). 

You can start training to help prepare your puppies to settle into their new families and lives too. For example, getting started on toilet training and helping your pups get comfortable wearing collars and harnesses and walking on lead. 

The puppies will likely want and need emotional support from their mum when they first start experiencing the world around them. But as they move towards 6 weeks or so they will be becoming increasing independent and should start to experience new things without her (but your support is still important).

Your puppies should also see a vet for a health check, be treated for worms (and ideally fleas) and start their vaccination courses to ensure there are no delays in them being able to safely venture outside and continue their socialisation in their new homes.

How to prepare your dog for her puppies leaving 

By 8 weeks post-partum most mums will be ready to wave their puppies goodbye. They will be starting to spend more time away from them and restrict how often they allow them to feed. If your pups are staying until 12 weeks it is important that you ensure your dog is coping with this and not getting frustrated with them. 

From a few weeks old many dogs will enjoy having short breaks from their puppies are fed and settled. She might enjoy a little stroll around the block, curl up on the sofa for a little massage or enjoy her favourite chew. As her puppies age gradually increase the length of these rest periods and use this time to start on some of the activities mentioned above with the pups. It is important to make this fun and enjoyable, if she is unhappy away from her pups do not force separation, just try again in a few days. 

It is unlikely you will need to be too involved in the weaning process, so long as you allow time apart. The puppies will suckle less as they eat more solids and gain independence, and mum will start to limit nursing times as the puppies mature. As less milk is required, you can start to gradually reduce your dog’s food intake back towards her pre-puppy levels. It is also sensible to check her teats regularly for any signs of mastitis such as heat, redness or hard areas.

Don’t forget your dog has given birth, and although she might be keen to get back out on walks, playing with her friends or working, it is important her exercise is built up gradually. If possible, it is a great idea to work with a physiotherapist to help her get back to full strength.

If you missed any booster vaccinations during pregnancy or puppy rearing, don’t forget to book an appointment with your vet to ensure she is up to date.

Related features:

Our guide to caring for newborn puppies; Food, health, and a safe environment

When can puppies go outside? Find out if it is time to take your puppy outside yet

When do puppies stop growing? If you’re wondering how big your pup is going to get and when it’ll stop growing see our handy guide

More on puppy prep for potential owners including what you need to do for a puppy before it arrives

With our puppy insurance, you will have peace of mind knowing that your newest family member has comprehensive coverage against hereditary, congenital conditions, dental illness, injury, and behavioral treatment.