We keep all of our puppies up-to-date on all of their immunizations – they are given at 6,9, and 12 weeks of age. If you receive your puppy at 8 weeks of age, then he/she will have just had the first set. If you receive your puppy at 9-11 weeks, he or she will have had the first two sets. If you receive your puppy on or after 12 weeks, then he or she will have completed the whole series and will be good for a year – at which time a yearly booster shot will be given. However, he/she will still need his/her rabies shot given after 15 weeks. Most of you will receive your new puppy around 8 or 9 weeks of age and it is important that you get him/her into your vet at the appropriate times for the rest of their immunizations.

We typically do not let our puppies go outside in our yard until they are around 12 weeks of age (at which time they have had their 3rd set of immunizations) so as not to expose them to our other dogs – since young puppies immune systems are not fully developed. Unless you have multiple dogs like we do, you should be fine letting your puppy out in your own yard, but you should avoid any dog parks until they are at least 12 weeks and have completed their 3rd set of immunizations (safer yet, at 6 months when their immune systems are mature). There are so many different dogs from so many different owners and environments found at dog parks that you don’t know what your puppy will be exposed to. The series of three immunizations will provide your Frenchie with added protection from picking up things they are exposed to at the park that could make them sick. Also, be aware that in most parks there are going to be larger, older dogs present that may not always be the friendliest to cute little Frenchies, and whose owners are not always in control of them.

Remember that Frenchies should not be exposed to extreme temperatures – especially extreme heat. Watch for signs of over-heating and make sure your Frenchie has access to plenty of shade and water if outside on a warmer day.