It’s a good idea to take puppies outside as soon as possible to get them used to different sounds, smells and experiences. However, they are at risk of catching nasty diseases until after they have had their second vaccinations. Until then, you can stick to the garden, carry your puppy outside in your arms or in a puppy sling, or use dog buggy so they can still experience everything safely. 

Your puppy can go in the garden straight away – provided it’s secure. Make sure there are no holes or broken bits of fence that your puppy could sneak under or through. Reduce the risk of disease and clear your garden of any fox or cat poo before you let your puppy outside. If you have areas of gravel or decorative stone that your puppy may try to play with, or vegetable beds that you don’t want your puppy digging up, it’s a good idea to section these areas off with a temporary barrier.

Did you know that many garden plants are toxic to dogs? But there’s also a number of plants that have beneficial properties. Read more in our guide to creating a dog friendly garden.

If you have a garden, you can start toilet training your puppy to go outdoors straight away. If you do not have a garden, you can use puppy training pads inside. You can ask your vet for advice.

Puppies are generally considered to be ‘safe’ two weeks after they have had their second round of injections. If your puppy was vaccinated at 8 weeks, again at 10 weeks, they will be ready at 12 weeks old. Your vet is the best person to advise on this. 

You should wait until after your puppy has had their second vaccination before taking them out for a walk. You can also carry your puppy in your arms or take them out in a dog buggy or puppy sling to get them used to the sights and smells of the world outside before they are fully vaccinated. Did you know there are lots of other ways to entertain your dog without leaving the home? Dogs love a treasure hunt in the garden or to follow the scent of treats in the house. Benefits of scent work include:

• Release of dopamine and serotonin.
• Calming.
• Brain work, 10 minutes is the same as a 30 minute walk.

You can introduce your puppy to other dogs once they have been vaccinated. If you have another dog, it’s fine for them to be introduced to your puppy in your home. Make sure your other dog has been fully vaccinated.

It can be daunting for puppies to meet other dogs for the first time. Allowing them to observe dogs from a distance while remaining calm and feeling safe is hugely beneficial. They also need to learn how to behave appropriately around other dogs to avoid getting nipped or growled at. Puppy School is a good place for meeting other dogs. This will be in a safe environment under the watch of a professional dog trainer.

Likewise, not all adult dogs can cope with an exuberant young puppy so choose the dogs that your puppy meets carefully. Make sure they have plenty of space and can have a break from each other if they need to. If you have a female puppy, be mindful of socialising her when they are in season. Female dogs first come into season at around 4-6 months.