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Is 4 weeks too young for Shih Tzu puppies to leave their mom?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Female | unspayed | 18 days old

I have to pick my Shih Tzu puppies up at 4 weeks, the breeder family is military ans are being relocated, is this to early to leave mom, and what can I do to make transition easier for pup.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on March 29th, 2018

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! While not ideal, this can be done. The pups would have to be fed a milk replacement formula (which you can buy at your local pet store or online) until they are about 6 to 8 weeks at which time they can be introduced to kibble or canned food. Good luck and have a great day!

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