[word_warrior_bob]

Why 9 weeks?

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Most of what I've read is between 9 and 12 weeks, gives them enough time for social interaction with the other pups and enough time for various tests, shots, etc.

You can also take one from a breeder that's been there longer too, you have a much better gauge on what their personality is, if it's a good breeder you will probably get a well adjusted, social dog.

[ButThreeLeftsDo]

I'm getting this 7-week advice from hunting dog "experts"..

Enjoy your new friend!!

[AnAmericanMother]

The "received wisdom" amongst the retriever people is that from birth to 7 weeks, the dog learns to bond with other dogs - the mother and the littermates.

Between 7 and 12 weeks, supposedly, is the best time for the dog to bond with humans.

I got my first dog at around 12 weeks (she was the runt and didn't sell). She's bonded with me, but I got the second dog at 7 weeks and she's my shadow. She stepped out of her shipping crate like a little queen, saw me, and came straight to my lap and never left. If there's any kind of upset or trouble, she comes to heel and looks up at me for guidance. (Meanwhile, my big dog is out barking at whatever's causing the upset.)

It may just be that she's grateful to me for rescuing her from the cargo hold of a Midwest Express jet . . .

[Varda]

I think it depends on the breed. I never let my herding breed pups go before 7 weeks (never a problem) but 8 weeks was the norm. Past 8 weeks they needed alot of individual attention that was best done by the owner. Nine weeks still is within the window for puppies to make easy adjustments. 12 weeks would definitely be a problem.

Most standard poodles I've been around have been really easy going sensible dogs. It's a lovely breed, congratulations.