Implications of Weaning Age for Dog Welfare – CRONEY RESEARCH GROUP

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CRONEY RESEARCH GROUP – Funded by WORLD PET ASSOCIATION and PET FOOD INSTITUTE

Weaning is an important stage in dog development, and maximizing the welfare of dams and their offspring can promote adult dog well-being. During the weaning process, puppies begin consuming semi-solid food at around three weeks of age, and they typically are separated from their dams between six and eight weeks of age for re-homing. This coincides with a stage in puppy development that involves critical learning and has long-term implications for behavioral wellness as adults. To optimize the well-being of puppies as well as adult dogs, it is essential to consider the weaning ages and practices used as well as their relationship to developmental processes.

Hurt M, Stella J, Croney C. (2015, September). Implications of Weaning Age for Dog Welfare. Retrieved March 26, 2021, from https://extension.purdue.edu/extmedia/VA/VA-11-W.pdf?_ga=2.139598195.1115996158.1616764053-812871525.1561580248

Photo: iStock.com/SolStock

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Topic(s): Breeder Resource, Developmental Stages, Nutrition, Puppies, Puppy Development