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How to raise a happy, healthy puppy separated from mom at 4 weeks?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

My puppy is 4 weeks old and was taken from her mother and littermates at 30 days old exactly. Her mother got sick and was unable to keep caring for them so they were given away. I heard this can cause major problems (behavior and health) down the line. Is there anything I can do in order to make sure she grows up to be a happy healthy dog? I am in the process of weaning her (bottle-feeding puppy milk replacer and water softened kibble.) Thank you.

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1 Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on July 23rd, 2018

Expose her as much as possible to the different sights and sounds of the home and yard. This will help acclimate her to different environments. You can "puppy proof" and area, but try not to make it too sterile for her. When feeding her, take the bottle away early every now and then and hold her in an uncomfortable position for brief periods of time. This will impart various coping skills and teach her how to deal with frustrations. Ideally, she should be enrolled in puppy socialization classes very soon. The best way for her to learn how to be a dog is to play and tumble around with other dogs. A vaccinated and healthy adult female dog can also be used to teach manners

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