Many people acquire puppies at a very young age for one reason or another. Keep in mind that it is very important that your puppy is between 6 and 8 weeks old before it is separated from it’s mother. There are many reasons for this. If you are getting your pup from a good breeder, they will not give up the pups before this age. Today the age is 8 weeks. Puppies eyes and ears open after about three weeks. They begin to test solid foods after about 4 or 5 weeks, but a puppy is not really completely weaned at only 5 or even 6 weeks old. A extra couple of weeks with it’s mother and brothers and sisters can make a big difference overall. New puppies should have at least one set of shots before going home with you. Usually shots start at 6 weeks, then 9 weeks and finally 12 weeks.  The first rabies booster is given at 16 weeks. There are times that puppies that are rescued are placed before 8 weeks of age. If this is the case , get specific feeding and caring instructions from your vet.  Before you get the crate, Dog carrier etc. make sure that the pup is old enough to go home. Just some tips for you and your new pup!