Puppies learn many behaviors from their mothers, but also from their littermates. In fact, much of how a dog will later interact with other dogs has its basis in this litter time. Puppies with no littermates or those who come from litters that were broken up too early often grow up to have a difficult time interacting with other dogs, tending to be either excessively shy or aggressive.

It's also important at this time that puppies be socialized with people. Good breeders will make sure that their puppies are handled by people and that they have the opportunity to play with people. And it's also very good at this time to have the puppies handled by children and to have them play with them too. This forms the basis of how dogs interact with people and whether or not they trust them. Good breeders will also expose puppies to a variety of different situations and environments. Any bad behaviors which have their root in these first seven weeks of life can be overcome, but it's usually not an easy thing to do.

More about early socialization for your dog.
Back to previous section on dog socialization.