its just most breeders dont let them go before 8, because in those 2 weeks they learn so much from their mum and their siblings...

Breeding of dogs Act 1991

http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1999/11/section/8

I don't think that applies to private individuals breeding the occasional litter, who are the sort of people I would go to for a puppy.

it should do, whether breeding dogs occasionally, or having constant litters.

and to be honest i wouldnt buy from someone who would give their pups up at 6 weeks....

As I said in my first post, I think it would depend on how experienced the home was. A six week old pup is going to learn as much going to a home of multiple dogs if not more than an eight week old pup who has been solely with its littermates. Once the pups are weaned, the bitch won't have much to do with them - if she has the choice.

but pups learn how to socialise with each other... they learn bite inhibition... you cant take a pup out at 6 weeks old so its not learning much socialisation than it would be with the breeder. sometimes less so.

I did say in homes with multiple dogs so the pup learns bite inhibition from adults which will have much more impact than from a littermate.

I don't think we are going to agree on this somehow but at least the original poster will have two opinions to consider!

ive had pups at 6 7 8 and 12 weeks from breeders....i still think its disgraceful for a pup to go to a new home at 5 1/2 weeks,unless there is a very valid reason.. and because the new owner has other dogs is not a good reason imo.

eta.. used to be very common with high content wolfdogs too... even the thought has changed there that it is not right for the dog!

6 weeks?!

Hmm 'backstreet breeders' you mean? The sort who breed just for the money? That figures.

Agree with you,Collies are ready by six imo if its a experinced home with multiple dogs