Question in title realy. At what age do you start letting your puppies go for a potter around in the garden at this time of year. It's quite mild and a lovely sunny day today but mine are still a bit too young yet but it got me thinking as to what other people do.

For me it depends on the temperature, if there is snow or not, and what breed it is. Last year I had a Papillon litter born in January and they weren't able to go outside until 8 weeks of age due to snow etc -they would have sunk straight into it and got too cold. Normally, with large pups, I start taking them out  at 3 ½ to 4 weeks of age.

It's so nice here today I would love to take them out but they are only 3 weeks old. I'm just hoping that this weather lasts until the weekend. Why do I always seem to have winter litters!!!  It would be great to have a summer one. with 3 loads of washing/drying a day it would also be great to be able to line-dry everything rather than the dryer or radiators.

Mine went outside for the first time yesterday and I let them play outside this afternoon too.  They are 51/2 weeks old and medium breed and podgy little porkers!!  They had great fun for about an hour then all sat howling at the kitchen door to be let in.  Door was open, they just couldn't understand the step!!  hilarious fun and who needs a TV?!
I wouldn't be happy about letting mine out before about 5 weeks and only if it's mild/sunny.

I would want them to be mobile before taking them outside in the winter.  If they keep moving they'll keep warm. :)

4 - 4 1/2 weeks (regardless of time of year/weather though do aim for nice still day for the first time out), have never managed to keep them happy in the indoor puppy pen past this time.

Mine is a medium size thick coated Nordic breed.  Puppies are very forward in development doing most things except opening their eyes) sooner than average.

I start at 4 wks weather permitting just for a few minutes ...I usually get them out right after a feed as it teaches toilet training really quickly..althought its easier if you have a helper!!

> Door was open, they just couldn't understand the step!!  hilarious fun and who needs a TV?!
>

This is so true.  I am always saying that I don't need a TV.  Once my gang start interacting, and playing the fool, it beats any comedy show for me!  :-)