Puppies can go outside safely in different ways depending on their vaccination status:
- Puppies can be taken outside into a secure and clean garden as soon as you bring them home, as long as the area is safe and free from other animals or contaminants.
- However, they should not be taken out for public walks or mingling with other dogs until they have received their second round of vaccinations plus about two weeks for full immunity to develop. Typically, this is around 12 weeks of age.
- Until then, for outside exposure, you can carry the puppy in your arms, use a dog buggy or puppy sling to let them experience sights and smells safely.
- Introducing puppies to other dogs should also wait until after vaccinations, and introductions with other dogs should be done carefully and in a safe environment.
- Waiting for full vaccinations protects puppies from potentially life-threatening diseases like parvovirus, distemper, and adenovirus.
In summary, puppies can go outside into a secure private garden right away but should only go on public walks and meet other dogs about two weeks after their second vaccination, usually around 12 weeks old. Carrying them or using protective means to expose them safely before that is recommended.
