AKC law states that it is illegal to sell the puppy before 8 weeks. Not that the seller can't take your money, just that the buyer can't take the puppy before 8 weeks. My belief is the socializing a puppy learns between 7-10 weeks with its litter mates can not be matched. after too long though like at 12 weeks old, it's getting past bonding time and that too is hard on a puppy. They need to be with the family with who they build teaching and bonding. Way back when, in the 60's and 70's it wasn't uncommon to take a puppy from it's mother at 5 weeks old. Lots of health issue would arise. Skin, teeth, and immune systems were comprimised. Of course we didn't have all the good food, or knowlege we do now. good luck and enjoy your new baby.
