When can my puppy go outside

It would be ideal to keep puppies isolated from other dogs until they are fully vaccinated (at 16 weeks or older)!

We know it can be tempting to take your puppy straight out, however, you need to ensure it is safe for them. There are potential viruses or parasites in parks.

You might think this is not ideal from a training & socialisation perspective. The following recommendations are based on what others believe is a reasonable compromise between these two competing interests.

Vaccination schedule for your puppy:

6 – 8 weeks old

Your puppy requires a C3 vaccination to protect them against canine parvovirus, distemper and hepatitis viruses.

After having the first C3 vaccination, they may attend puppy preschool.

12 weeks old

This can either be the C3 or the C5 vaccination. C5 vaccination ensures that your pet is protected against the highly contagious Canine Cough or C7 vaccination so they are also vaccinated against Leptosporosis.

Although your pup is not fully vaccinated, you may consider start taking it out for walks before the final booster so that you can take advantage of this socialisation period. If it has been more than two weeks since their first vaccine, you may take your puppy for a walk along roads or pavements as viruses have a harder time surviving in these areas. You should talk to your vet first before taking your puppy out.

16 weeks old

Again, this can be either the C3, C5 or C7 vaccination and this is your puppy’s final vaccination. Something to remember is that they will not be fully vaccinated for another two weeks. So stick to roads, pavements or along the shore line on the beach during this period of time.

Early socialisation is crucial for puppies

Socialisation training does not only refer to interactions between dogs, but also means to get puppies accustomed to various factors and influences in modern human society, such as cars, electric vehicles, various strangers, and exposure to different environments, such as roads, grass, and cement.

The earlier puppies are exposed to diverse and complex environments with proper guidance, the more stable their personalities will become, commonly known as “familiarity breeds contempt” and “broad experience makes a wise dog”.