I am about to buy a puppy which has been taken from its mum before 8 weeks (separated at 6 wks) - will this have a bad effect?

It will be okay some times the bitch has had enough of the pups by this age, dont worry and lots of luck with your new baby

what sort of pup? and what reason to take it from mum?

I would ask everyone to be vigilant at the moment....a litter of GSD pups was stolen at 4 weeks old in the Midlands, mum left at home. This is probably not an only incident. if pups are not with their mum the full length of time, then ask why? If the mum is not with the breeder then you have to think if the litter is a stolen one and report anything suspicious to the police.

it can cause the pup to have health issues and be smaller in size. As with humans pups get a lot of their much required antibodies and nutrients from the mothers milk. therefore the earlier they are taken from the mother the less they can ingest.

Most puppies are completely weaned by 6wks. The most important time for pups to gain immunity from their dam's milk is in the 1st few days. It really depends on the individual pup whether it is ready for a new home or not at 6wks - and on the owner as well. As to being smaller in size - well that, presumably, means that the last puppy to leave (or the one you keep) will always be the biggest!

I agree,my pups were more than able to go at 6 weeks but I kept them till 8 for all their socialization and for mum to teach them a few things,will always do that,sandra.

6 weeks of age is okay. There should be no problems at all.

There is another message which can be found on this site which debated this subject at great length.
It can be found on the 'Breeding' forum and is titled 'Do not home a puppy until 12+ weeks'.

snomaes