First year
Your puppy's first year
What to expect, what to plan for, and what is worth a phone call. This is a general guide — your puppy's plan will be tailored to them.
The first visit
Bring your puppy in soon after they come home, even if the breeder or rescue has already started vaccinations. We weigh them, examine them nose to tail, check for congenital problems, and go through the paperwork you were given.
Bring any records you have, plus the food they are currently eating. Questions are welcome — most new owners have more than they expect.
Vaccination planning
Puppies receive a series of vaccinations over their first few months, with timing based on age, the vaccines already given and where your puppy will spend time.
We plan this individually rather than applying a fixed schedule. If your puppy will attend daycare, training classes or boarding, tell us early — some facilities have their own requirements.
Parasite prevention and deworming
Puppies are routinely dewormed, and we discuss ongoing prevention for fleas, ticks and intestinal parasites based on your puppy's lifestyle and the local season.
If you hike, camp or travel with your dog, mention it — that changes what we recommend.
Feeding and growth
Puppies need food formulated for growth, in measured portions rather than free choice. Large and giant breeds have particular growth considerations, and getting this wrong can affect joints.
We check weight and body condition at each visit and adjust portions with you as your puppy grows.
Spay and neuter timing
Timing depends on breed, size, sex and your household. There is no single right age for every dog, so we discuss the trade-offs and decide together.
Microchipping and identification
Microchipping is quick and can be done at a routine visit. Keep your contact details up to date with the registry — an unregistered chip helps nobody.
When to call us
Puppies can become unwell quickly. Call us about persistent vomiting or diarrhoea, refusal to eat, lethargy, coughing, difficulty breathing, suspected poisoning, or anything you swallow hard about.
This guide is general information, not a treatment schedule. Your puppy's vaccinations, parasite prevention and surgery timing are planned individually at their appointments.
Socialisation and handling
The first months shape how your dog handles the world. Aim for calm, positive, varied experiences rather than sheer volume, and stop before your puppy is overwhelmed.
Practise handling at home: paws, ears, mouth, brushing and nail touching, in short sessions with treats. It makes future veterinary visits much easier.