So in a couple of weeks I will be bringing home an 8 week old male GSD. My breeder will have given the puppies parvo/distemper vaccines but I'm not sure if I will continue. I'm definitely not giving him any other vaccinations. But, I'm really worried about him getting parvo. What do I need to do to insure his health? Can I take him places or should I wait a couple of weeks before taking him out? And, what do you guys think about parvaid as a preventive natural remedy? I read that Ed suggested using it. Any other pointers would be appreciated. Thanks.

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And, what do you guys think about parvaid as a preventive natural remedy?

I used Parvaid as a preventative on a recent litter. These pups were 100% unvaccinated. At 12 weeks they went to the vet for their ear cropping. As a preventative for possible exposure to Parvo I started them on Parvaid 3 days later as recommended by the manufacturer. I used it in combination with Vibactra Plus also. I do recommend it to all the people we place puppies with.

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So in a couple of weeks I will be bringing home an 8 week old male GSD. My breeder will have given the puppies parvo/distemper vaccines

Giving vaccinations prior to 8 weeks will most likely be ineffective. Maternal antibodies in most cases are probably still to high to allow the puppy to use the vaccine to develop their own antibodies to parvo or distemper.

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Can I take him places or should I wait a couple of weeks before taking him out

We don't take our puppies off our property(unless absolutely necessary--vet...) until 6 months of age for 2 reasons--
1. We don't use any vaccinations and want to make sure our pups have developed strong immune systems, so they are more able to handle any pathogens they come in contact with and naturally develop immunity/antibodies.
2. All our training prior to 6 months is done with little or no distractions

Keep in mind that stress plays a large part in healthy immune systems. Vaccinations, rehoming, meeting new people and environments are all stress to a young puppy. Anything you can do to space these things out so your pup is not dealing with multiple stressors at once the better.

Congratulations on your new pup and I wish you the best,
Shannon