It takes about 2 years for a dog to mature. The first few weeks are baby to toddler time. At about 12 weeks old they are about the equivalent of a 5-6 year old human child. They are mentally ready to leave their mom and litter mates. The American Kennel Club does not recommend separating them from their mom and litter mates earlier than 12 weeks. From 12 weeks to 6 months they are in their childhood years when they are learning at a very fast rate. This is the time best suited for basic training but not leash training since the pup should have all its vaccines before being exposed to other dogs and the sidewalk of dog viruses.
From 6 months old to the pup's first birthday is a time of sexual maturity. Male dogs are able to father a litter of puppies and females often go into heat as early as 6 months old. These are their teenage years and be thankful that you don't have to worry about how to get rid of acne fast but just getting that vet appointment for spaying or neutering before an "accident' happens.
The second year of their life is when their bodies and minds mature. They get more muscle tone, become more mellow and you find out their average daily energy level.
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