Puppy socialization

[sheryl65]

Hi all,
New here and would like some input on a litter of four 6 week old yorkie/maltese puppies. Well, Mom has decided that her puppies have become highly annoying to her so she steers clear of them other than some brief occasional nursing. They are eating solids and drinking water, but my concern is how it will effect their behavoir if Mom is not there to teach them important things they need to learn...most importantly bite inhibition since they have started that wonderful stage! Are they going to have problems socializing long term?

Thanks in advance!
Sheryl

[Dangels]

The puppies should be alright with their mother acting that way.... a lot of female dogs act that way towards their puppies when they start to get older. It is very important for puppies not to leave until they are around 8 weeks old, even if they aren't with the mother much anymore. This is because the time period of 6 - 8 weeks is the most important time for puppies to be around other puppies. They learn a lot of socialization skills at this age from interacting with the others puppies. Just make sure that the puppies are kept together (don't let them go to new homes) until they are at least 8 weeks of age.

Best of luck with your litter!