When can I take my puppy to the dog park?

Generally, as soon as your puppy has received all of his vaccinations to prevent him from getting sick. Diseases like parvo and distemper are incredibly contagious. Unvaccinated dogs, especially puppies, are very susceptible to getting sick if they area around other dogs that are sick or in infected areas, since they don't have a fully developed immune system yet. Vaccines should be started around two months of age and may be boostered a few times until four months of age depending on the vaccine. The main vaccines your puppy should receive are rabies and a combination vaccine that includes distemper and parvo. Other worthwhile vaccines can be given depending on your puppy's lifestyle, including lepto (outdoors frequently), bordetella (around other dogs), and others. These are all things you can discuss with your vet when you first take your puppy in for an exam.

In the meantime, until your puppy is vaccinated, you can meet up with other dogs that are healthy and vaccinated in a safe space. It's important to make sure they socialize with other dogs at a young age to prevent behavioral problems. Inviting your friend's or family's dog over to your house or their house for play times can be safer than dog parks or public places.