We live in a subdivision and I have trained all four of my dogs from a very young age to go off leash in the yard. I have work endless hours with them so that they know that they only get that privilege if they listen to me at all times. If not they get sent to the house. I can take my dogs to an open field and let them run free with no concern of them running off or chasing anyone or thing.
In my opinion this is the best time to do it. Training start the moment you bring that pup into your home. It is also very important that you first teach them their name, come and stay commands. I would make sure that your pup knows with out a doubt that when you call them to you that you mean business. If you have any doubt that your pup will not heed to your command do not let them off of the leash when outdoors. You may want to work with your pup indoors first to establish your training techniques before you can 100% trust them to be off leash. Believe me, with hard work and the proper training it is doable to have your pup off leash with you and have every ounce of confidence that they are safe. That being said it took me years to get to that point with my dogs. Its not something that you want to risk without first having the proper training in place.
Good Luck and please keep that pup off the ground in populated areas until it has had all of its shots !! = )
__________________ Mommy to: Quincy, & Ruby Bella / Miah & Brandi Gone but Never Forgotten |