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Apartment living: How to safely exercise my unvaccinated puppy?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Dachshund miniature | Male | neutered | 1 month and 28 days old | 12 lbs

My pup is 8 weeks old so he's not been fully vaccinated yet. We live in an apartment complex with lots of other dogs (no idea if they're vaccinated or sick) and their feces is left everywhere. I've been training my pup to use a potty pad on our balcony so he's not exposed to anything harmful to him but I want him to be able to run around outside and get exercise instead of being stuck inside all the time. We don't have any friends or family in the area with a backyard either. Any suggestions?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Heidi DVM, CVA, CCRT, CVTP, CVSMT, CVCH

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist, Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner

Published on September 2nd, 2017

Congratulations on your new baby! First, I would talk to your vet about puppy vaccinations to make sure that Reece is on schedule and protected. It is very important to get Reece well socialized with other dogs and people in a safe way. One thing that I had luck with was puppy socialization class. They are often offered at training facilities and some veterinary clinics. In order to go to these events, owners have to show proof of vaccination, so you will know that Reece is around other dogs that are properly vaccinated. I would also ask your veterinarian if they have any similar suggestions. I hope that helps!

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    Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Unfortunately i do not have a solution for you, taking him out at this stage will put him in great danger. i always recommend my clients to wait one week after the second vaccination until they take their puppy out and i am saying the exact same thing to you.

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