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How long should I wait to get a new puppy after distemper death?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Male | unneutered | 2 months and 6 days old | 4 lbs

is it too risky to bring a new puppy home if the previous has died of distemper virus? how much time should my friend wait before bringing another home?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Megan, DVM, CVA

Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian

Published on December 1st, 2018

Distemper doesn’t live very well outside of an animal. To be on the safe side I would wait a few weeks to a month before bringing a new puppy into the environment. I would also clean everything with bleach. I would also make sure the new puppy has already had its first set of vaccines. The puppy will need shots every 3 weeks until it is 15-16 weeks old. I hope this helps.
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