A Golden Retriever puppy is a beautiful thing, almost irresistible. The soft, plump tummy, those sad “take me home with you” eyes, the rich coat of fur… when there’s one in front of you, it’s all you can do not to grab one and immediately take it home. with you.

However, there are reasons why it would be wise to wait before taking home a Retriever puppy. Golden Retriever puppies, like any other young animal, need time with their mothers to grow and mature before they can be separated. If a cub is separated from its mother at too young an age, it could have disastrous effects. A Golden Retriever puppy must be at least 3 months old before you buy it from a breeder and take it home and there are several reasons:

HEALTH

Retriever puppies are very vulnerable creatures and need their mother’s milk in order to grow up healthy and strong. The mother’s milk contains antibodies that the puppy will use to protect itself from germs while its own immune system is still developing. What’s more, a very young puppy still can’t handle getting his vaccinations, so if he comes across any sort of bacteria or virus, he’ll most likely succumb to it. A 3-month-old puppy, on the other hand, will have developed his immune system, and by that time you should have received all his vaccinations, giving him a better chance of survival.

MENTAL DEVELOPMENT

Golden Retriever puppies learn to grow up with their mother and siblings, if they have them. They learn proper behavior for dogs and what it is like to live within a family unit. Studies have shown that Golden pups that are separated from their mothers before they are 3 months old often become shy or fearful because they do not know how to interact with other animals or people. On the other hand, puppies that have had enough time to learn, play, and grow with their mothers and siblings tend to become gentle, calm adults.

3-month-old Golden Retrievers not only have a greater mental and health advantage than younger puppies that have already been separated from their mothers, but they are also larger and more active. They are also easier to feed because they can eat solid food at this age, as long as you soften it in hot water before feeding. Younger puppies still need milk to grow and develop and you will often need to purchase a puppy milk formula. Before you go out and buy a Golden Retriever puppy, make sure you’re familiar with the average size and weight of a 3-month-old puppy. They will weigh about 18 to 25 pounds and stand about 4 to 6 inches off the ground. Healthy, well-socialized puppies at this age are very curious, playful, and friendly. Their eyes should be bright and clear, their skin free of scratches, rashes, and parasites, and their teeth, ears, and paws should be clean. These are the traits to look for when buying a Golden Retriever puppy. If you own them, the pup is most likely the perfect age to bring home.