Weaning

What exactly happens between 6 and 8 or 12 weeks that makes it important for a puppy to stay with it's mom?
Keely

• Although I am new to breeding Maltese, I have read some very good books that I would recommend that you read. One is 'Breeding Your Own Show Dogs' by Anne Serrane. This book explains all the critical stages that a puppy goes through from birth to age 12 weeks and beyond.
  Bonita Greene

• Puppies between the age you're speaking of not only need their mothers, they also learn a lot about being a dog from their siblings in the litter. Submissive positions, like rolling over and exposing the belly, are learned in the pack and playing teaches other behaviors, like how hard he can bite without being bitten back. Its also important that puppies gets lots of love from people during this period otherwise they may never make a very good pet. Ignoring or lack of attention can be devastating, especially with the Maltese breed.
  Jay