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My puppy has one shot. Is indirect exposure to unvaccinated dogs safe?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Toy Poodle | Male | 2 months and 15 days old

Hello, My puppy has only had one set of vaccinations, I am trying to keep him inside and out of harms way which is hard enough. He sits next to me at work, and my colleague has an adult unvaccinated dog (she doesn't believe in vaccinating dogs) I presume the dog is healthy, although the dog doesn't come to work with her, she is constantly petting my puppy who licks her in return. I don't like it, is there any risk to my puppy being petted by her? how long do i wait before second vac's? Thanks

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Dr. Strydom, DVM

Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 31st, 2017

Vaccines in puppies should be given every 3-4 weeks starting at 8 weeks of age. So he can be boostered at 11-12 weeks (looks like he has about a week to go).

The chances of him getting something from the unvaccinated dog's owner is pretty minimal but there is always a slight chance. I personally would not be too worried about it but there are a couple things you could do to minimize risk. You could just kindly ask her to wash her hands before petting. The other option is that you don't have to let her pet him at all. You can always say you are busy training him and you would prefer that no one pets him for now if you want to avoid a conflict.....

Hope this answers your question. Best wishes!
Vote Icon1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 25th, 2018

    There is definitely a concern for disease transmission from a vaccinated dog to an unvaccinated puppy. If they live in the same house, then there's essentially no way to keep them from spreading disease to each other, so they may as well play. If they are normally in separate compounds, then it would be best to wait until Aspin gets her first vaccine to let them play. Generally, we advise not to let them have contact with dogs outside the household until they are over four months old and have received their third vaccine.

    Aspin is of age to get his first vaccine, so it's best to have that done as soon as possible. He will need two more booster vaccines after that - booster vaccines are four weeks apart. Your vet will be able to help make sure he gets the right vaccine and gets on a good schedule.

    I hope that helps and all is well with Lady and Aspin.

    Vote Icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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