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Is it safe to introduce a new puppy with first shots to my dog?
Updated on September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Male | unneutered | 1 month and 29 days old | 10 lbs
We just picked up our new 8 week old puppy today. He’s had his first vaccinations. We also have another dog, 8 year old dachshund mix, he is fully vaccinated. Is it safe to introduce them?
3 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on August 11th, 2019
1Pet Parents found this answer helpfulRelated Answers from Veterinarians
Answered By Ann Dion, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on March 27th, 2017
Hello. As long as your older dog is up to date, and isn't going to dog parks or boarding kennels where she can get viruses on her and bring them home, then your little puppy should be ok. If he is almost 8 weeks he can get his first set of vaccines soon! Have fun with them!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA
Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer
Published on November 27th, 2017
Congratulations on your upcoming puppy! :) As long as your other dogs are healthy and current on their vaccines, there should be no problem at all with allowing your new pup to interact normally with them - no need to keep them separated. Just avoid high-risk areas where lots of strange dogs have been, like dog parks and pet stores, until he's finished with his vaccine series.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful