Bringing home a new puppy is exciting and full of snuggles, playtime, and the occasional chewed-up shoe. But along with all the fun comes the responsibility of ensuring your puppy is set up for a healthy, happy life. Here’s a medical-focused guide to help you navigate your puppy’s first year and beyond.

First Vet Visit: What to Expect

One of the first things you’ll want to do is schedule a visit to your veterinarian. At this first appointment, the vet will:

  • Perform a physical exam to ensure your puppy is healthy.
  • Check for common issues like heart murmurs, hernias, or congenital abnormalities.
  • Discuss vaccination schedules and overall healthcare needs.
Your vet will also answer any questions you may have about feeding, training, and behavior to make sure you’re on the right track.

Vaccination Schedule

Vaccines are essential to protect your puppy from serious illnesses. Puppies typically start their vaccination series between 6 to 8 weeks of age, with booster shots every 3 to 4 weeks until they are around 16 weeks old. Some core vaccines include:

  • Distemper: A viral disease that affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems.
  • Parvovirus: A highly contagious virus that can cause severe vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration.
  • Rabies: This is not only a legal requirement but also protects your dog from this fatal disease.
Depending on your location and lifestyle, your vet may recommend other vaccines, like those for Leptospirosis, Influenza or Bordetella (kennel cough).

Parasite Prevention

Puppies are prone to parasites, both internal and external. At your puppy’s first vet visit, they’ll likely be tested for intestinal parasites, which can include roundworms, hookworms, and giardia. Regular deworming treatments may be necessary during the early months.

In addition, flea and tick prevention is important, even in cooler climates like the Pacific Northwest. Your vet can recommend safe flea, tick, and heartworm preventatives based on your puppy’s age and weight.

Spaying and Neutering

Spaying or neutering your puppy is a responsible way to prevent unwanted litters and contribute to their long-term health. Typically, puppies are spayed or neutered between 6 and 16 months of age, depending on breed and overall health. Spaying can help prevent uterine infections and breast tumors, while neutering reduces the risk of prostate issues and certain cancers in males. Work with your veterinarian to set up a timeline that fits your lifestyle and pet.

Nutrition and Feeding

Proper nutrition is key for your puppy’s growth and development. Puppies have specific dietary needs that are different from adult dogs, so be sure to feed them a high-quality puppy food that meets the standards of the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).

Here are some basic guidelines:

  • Feed your puppy 3 to 4 times a day until they are about 6 months old, then you can transition to twice a day.
  • Avoid giving them human food, especially items like chocolate, onions, grapes, and bones, which are toxic to dogs.
Your vet can guide you on portion sizes and the best type of food for your puppy’s breed and size.

Dental Care

Dental health often gets overlooked, but it’s important to start early. Puppies lose their baby teeth by about 6 months of age, but introducing them to tooth brushing early can set them up for success later in life.

Consider:

  • Using a dog-friendly toothbrush and toothpaste to brush your puppy’s teeth regularly.
  • Offering chew toys designed to promote dental health and reduce plaque.

Puppy Proofing Your Home

While not strictly medical, puppy proofing your home can prevent accidents that could lead to injury. Remove or secure anything that could be a choking hazard, block off areas with electrical cords, and ensure that any household chemicals or medications are out of reach.

Recognizing Early Signs of Illness

Puppies can be prone to minor illnesses as they grow, and it’s crucial to catch any issues early. Look out for:

  • Lethargy or lack of interest in play
  • Vomiting or diarrhea that lasts more than a day
  • Coughing, sneezing, or difficulty breathing
  • Excessive scratching, licking, or hair loss

If you notice any of these signs, contact your vet right away to ensure your puppy gets the care they need.

Bringing home a new puppy is a wonderful experience, and taking care of their medical needs is the best way to ensure a long, happy life together. By staying on top of vaccinations, parasite prevention, nutrition, and regular vet visits, you’ll set your puppy up for a healthy start in life.