Mary Allen
About 12 weeks is ideal. This time with the mother dog is extremely valuable for the little Chihuahua. He learns from both his mother and littermates, which benefits his socialization.
He can romp and play with his siblings and train his bite inhibition. The mother, on the other hand, teaches the litter the dog etiquette and how to communicate with other dogs. This is often supported by other four-legged friends in the kennel.
Another important consideration: Chihuahua puppies are very skinny and small. Diarrhea or low blood sugar can be really dangerous for them. If the puppy is given to its new home early on, many puppies refuse to eat or get diarrhea from excitement and stress. In the worst case, this can be fatal.
If the puppy stays with its mother for up to 12 weeks, it is “out of the rough” and ready for the big world. Owners should still keep a close eye on the well-being of the puppy.