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How to safely socialize a new puppy before all parvo vaccinations?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Siberian Husky | Male | unneutered | 1 month and 25 days old | 14 lbs

We just adopted a husky puppy and are picking him up on the 7th (when he is 8 weeks). He hasn’t had any shots but we’ve scheduled the first round for the 8th. His breeder is very concerned about the parvovirus and suggests that we keep him isolated from other dogs until about 2 weeks after his last round of shots. She is suggesting no walks or playtime with any other animals. Is this wise? We don’t want to isolate him to where he isn’t socialble. What would you suggest?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on April 3rd, 2019

Parvovirus is always a concern for any pet who has not received it’s for vaccine series. He should be isolated with no walks until he has received at least two vaccines boosters. Each vaccine takes 7 to 10 days to take full effect. After two weeks, most owners will start to socialize their puppies. He should not go to public areas such as parks. Parvovirus lives in the ground for up to one year after it is shed in dog’s feces. He should meet other dogs and your friends dogs who are healthy and fully vaccinated are fine. Puppy classes are typically OK as well, just carry him through the pet store so that he is not smelling in areas accessible to the general public. The vaccine series is typically completed around 16 weeks of age and after that he will be fully protected and free to go anywhere. I hope this answers your questions and please feel free to post any additional questions.

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