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How soon can my puppy potty train outside after first vaccinations?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Pit Bull Terrier | Male | unneutered | 2 months and 16 days old

My 10 week old puppy had his first rounds of vaccinations 2 days ago. How long do we have to wait to start outside potty training?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

Veterinarian

Published on March 16th, 2017

You can get started right away! Consistency is the key to house training, so be sure to take Emmitt outside often - after eating, napping, playing, or at least every 2-3 hours. Reward appropriate potty behavior with praise and a small treat. If you catch him in the act of eliminating in the house, say "no" and take him straight outside. If you find an accident around the house, there is no need to scold or punish him.

The main concern at this point is that Emmitt is not fully vaccinated against some highly contagious viruses, such as parvovirus. Until he has received his full distemper/parvovirus vaccine series, keep him away from other dogs. This includes areas where other dogs may have previously eliminated, such as parks or around your neighborhood. Keep Emmitt confined to your backyard until his vaccine series is complete.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
As long as no other dogs frequent your yard, and Emmitt has no contact with unvaccinated dogs, it's fine to start potty training him now. He will not be fully vaccinated until he has had three rounds of vaccines total. When you take him outside to potty train, keep him confined to your yard and do not leave him alone.
0Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Jenny, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on December 14th, 2017
It is safe to explore outside after 3 sets of vaccines (12 weeks). If you have a small corner or spot in the yard you can restrict him to then you can start taking him out now. Keep him in a kennel if you are not watching him as they won’t go to the bathroom where they sleep so make sure the kennel is not too roomy. Every time he goes to the bathroom make sure you give him a treat and praise. Take him out frequently and if he does not go because he is distracted playing, put him back in the kennel for a few minutes then try again
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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Can my puppy go outside to potty after getting his first shots?

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My 2-month-old puppy needs potty training, can't go outside yet?

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