By the time the puppies are seven to eight weeks old, they should be fully weaned. Her mother must still be present so that she can play with them and enjoy them, but they must have learned that there is no milk to get from her and they must not disturb her. The puppies’ training should be well underway and they should have learned some words and sounds, like the rustle of cookie packets and the rattle of food bowls. They will be emerging as individuals, with their own distinctive characteristics.

Each breeder has their own way of managing the sale of puppies, but we feel that all future homes should have been vetted for suitability. Puppies should be sent with a diet sheet, a full summary of future care, your phone number, a pedigree and a Kennel Club certificate of registration (or the promise of one if there has been a delay). You can decide whether to provide written receipts and agreements. He may also wish to sell or “place” a puppy on the condition that it is not used for breeding. This can be done in a number of ways: some people give written contracts, some withhold registration certificates, some use the Kennel Club facility to support registration, although the Kennel Club can override this at its own discretion. Some breeders do not register the puppy. Some provide a veterinary certificate before the puppies leave. Some future owners will insist on a veterinary inspection, in any case.

All you can do is take every precaution to ensure that the Akita puppies you have raised go to the best possible homes. The greatest reward is when you meet one of your puppies at a future date and see that the dog looks fit and well, and in many cases, will still recognize you. Although you spend relatively little time with the puppies, it is a very important time in their lives and will have a significant influence on their future well-being.