First walks

[ASYLUM 7]

What is the earliest that I can take my new pup for walks on her lead? I don't even have her yet! But when she arrives, is it safe to get walking straight away, or should I wait until she is bigger than 8 weeks?
Also, is a collar or a harness better for a wee puppy?
Yay, we get to go visit her for the first time tomorrow!!!
~Suzanne
www.asylum7.net

[Mark]

Congrats Suzanne,

We think any age is OK to walk the pupper, if she has ALL her shots. The distance walked will be VERY short for one that young . . . will be very short indeed.

Harnesses do place far less strain on the delicate back of Dachsies . . . so it probaly is the best choice for this breed. :)

How exciting! :bounce: Seeing her the first time! :pink:

Please tell us all about her!

[minicooper]

I know exactly how you feel! It is so exciting to be going to see the new little one!

We bought Rover home two weeks ago, when he was 10 weeks old. Yesterday he had his final puppy vaccination, and it doesn't take full effect for another 2 weeks. My vet and breeder have both advised me to not have him out walking until 14 weeks of age, because of the risk of coming into contact with an unvaccinated dog, and therefore picking up some disease.

I prefer to use a harness on all my doggies, but I couldn't find one small enough for Rover, so I bought him a cat harness. I put it on him every day, starting off only for 5 minutes, and leaving it on him a bit longer each day. After a few days, when he was used to it a bit, I attached the lead, and walked him around a little. I usually give him his evening meal with the harness and lead on so he can associate good things happening with the harness (and I can also stop him from stealing Cooper's food). I am hoping that by the time he can go out, he is used to the harness and lead.

Don't forget to take a camera when you see your baby!

[Meemoo]

Hug-a-dox harnesses are the BEST for dachsies as they are made especially for the breed. Here's the link. They are great:

http://www.doxidelight.com/harness.htm

I wouldn't let a walk go by without one! We actually have 3 for our 1 pup :)