When can puppies go outside?

Out in the garden

The great news is, that as long as your garden is secure and there are no other dogs that have access to it (without you knowing their vaccination history), your little bundle of fun can begin exploring your garden with you as soon as you bring them home!

However, before you let your puppy out into the garden, you must make sure that the garden is completely safe and enclosed by fencing or walls.

Fence off all ponds or water features, put away any garden equipment and chemicals, and remove or fence off any poisonous plants.

It's also vital that your garden isn’t used by other unvaccinated dogs, as canine parvovirus, and other diseases that are vaccinated against, can survive in the soil for as long as a year.

Once you have ensured your garden is safe, then your puppy can go outside with you. It’s a brilliant way to have fun together and build their confidence, not to mention the importance of beginning toilet training!

Seeing the world

Part of your puppy’s socialisation is about seeing, hearing, smelling and experiencing things in the world around them, and so you can take your puppy out and about a little (depending on their size) as long as you carry them, don’t put them on the ground, and avoid interactions with others.

This can be just to the end of your driveway – or it could be further afield if you can carry them that far! This will give them a great – and safe - introduction to the world outside the front door.

Your puppy’s first walk

Being able to take your puppy out into the great outdoors is a big event for both of you, but it’s essential to wait until their vaccinations fully protect them.

The timing of this can vary a little, depending on the exact course of vaccines they have received. It’s usually a couple of weeks after their second vaccination, and your vet will confirm the exact timings with you.

It won’t be long until you and your puppy are off on adventures together!

What if I take my puppy out too early?

Although it might feel very tempting to take your puppy for a walk before they are fully vaccinated, it’s vital that you keep to the date agreed with your vet. The diseases we vaccinate dogs against are often fatal and in many areas of the country, they are on the rise.

Once your puppy has had their second vaccination., it still takes some time for immunity to fully develop against this range of dangerous and life-threatening illnesses. By giving these vaccinations time to work properly, you can be sure that once your puppy is out for their walks, they will be safe.

Last reviewed by expert behaviourist Carolyn Menteith on 7 July 2024.