Puppy FAQ
Everyday Living Questions
Is there a recommended temperature in the house for the puppy at night?
The ideal nighttime temperature for your puppy is one that feels comfortable for you. A 7-week-old Labrador puppy will be cozy at temperatures between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. If the room temperature rises above 75 degrees Fahrenheit, your puppy may become too warm.
When can I bathe my puppy?
You are able to bathe your puppy as soon as you bring him home, even on the first day. When bathing your puppy, make sure to use a shampoo that is specifically formulated for puppies, along with warm water. After the bath, towel dry your puppy thoroughly, and use a blower if the weather is cold to keep him comfortable. Labrador puppies generally enjoy water, so the experience should be fun for both of you. However, if your puppy becomes stressed during the bath, it is best to stop, rinse him off, and try bathing again another day. There is no need to use flea shampoo at this stage.
Crate Training Questions
Should I Crate train my puppy?
Crate training is highly beneficial for puppies, as dogs naturally feel secure in small, enclosed spaces. Providing your puppy with a dog crate gives him a comfortable and safe place to stay when you are not present or cannot supervise him directly. If you choose not to crate train, you can confine your puppy to a small, defined area such as the kitchen or bathroom. However, be aware that in these spaces, your puppy may chew on cabinets or other items, and house training may become more challenging.
Should we leave a light on at night for the puppy?
When deciding whether to leave a light on at night for your puppy, observe how he reacts. You can try leaving the light on; if your puppy settles down quickly and falls asleep, then the light is likely not an issue. However, if he continues to cry and has trouble calming down, it may be better to turn the lights off to help him rest. Some people choose to leave a TV or radio on for their puppy at night, but this can actually keep your puppy awake longer and prevent him from establishing a healthy sleep routine. Instead, if you want to provide some soothing background noise, playing classical music may help your puppy feel relaxed and comfortable during the night.
I leave Alexa playing classical music for the puppies and dogs all the time. Playing classical music continuously can help puppies and dogs feel calm and relaxed. This soothing background sound provides comfort and promotes a peaceful environment, especially during nighttime or when the puppy needs to rest. Keeping Alexa playing classical music throughout the day ensures that the dogs are surrounded by gentle, calming audio, supporting their well-being and helping them settle more easily.
Where should I place the crate the first few nights?
During the first few nights, it is best to place your puppy’s crate as far away as possible from busy or high-traffic areas in your home. Choosing a calm and quiet location helps your puppy relax and fall asleep more easily, minimizing distractions and promoting better rest. If your puppy seems especially anxious or insecure and continues to cry for more than 15 to 20 minutes, consider moving the crate—leaving the door open—into your bedroom, where he can see you. This sense of security can be very comforting, as some puppies are naturally more independent, while others need to be close to you to settle down. For some puppies, simply having your hand hanging from the bed where they can touch you is enough to help them feel safe and fall asleep. Once your puppy is sleeping soundly, gently place him back in his crate and close the door. These early nights are an important time for your puppy to bond with his new family, so it is essential to create a positive and reassuring experience and avoid anything that could be traumatic.
If the puppy cries at night, should we leave him or comfort him?
To help your puppy settle at night, play with him extensively right before bedtime. The goal is to ensure he is tired and ready to sleep. If your puppy starts crying after you leave him, it is best to leave him alone. Typically, the crying should only last for a few minutes. Avoid picking him up or comforting him immediately, as puppies are very sensitive and can smell and hear your presence even before a human baby would. However, if the crying persists for more than 15 to 20 minutes, this indicates that your puppy may need something. In such cases, take him out for a brief play session until he is very tired and nearly falling asleep. This approach helps your puppy feel secure and encourages him to settle down for the night.
Feeding Questions
How often do I feed my puppy?
Feeding your puppy at the right intervals is essential for his growth and health. At 7-8 weeks of age, you should provide about ½ to ¾ cup of food three times per day. When your puppy reaches 8 weeks, increase the portion to approximately 1 cup, still divided into three meals throughout the day. After your puppy turns 10 weeks old, you can transition to feeding him twice daily. To do this, simply divide the total daily food amount into two portions instead of three. Remember to adjust the amount of food as your puppy continues to grow to ensure he receives the proper nutrition.
What do you feed the puppies?
Puppy Food Recommendation: Our puppies are fed with TLC Puppy Food. This high-quality food is specially chosen to meet their nutritional needs and support healthy growth and development during the early stages of life up to 4-5 months.
Can I give treats/snacks to the puppy?
Treats and snacks can be introduced to your puppy, but it is important to wait until he is at least 10 weeks old. Offering treats before this age is not recommended. When your puppy is old enough, treats should be given solely as a reward, such as during training or positive behavior reinforcement. Simply being adorable or cute should not be a reason for giving treats, as this can encourage unwanted habits and undermine effective training. By using treats purposefully and sparingly, you help your puppy learn appropriate behaviors and maintain a healthy routine.
Do I leave a water bowl overnight in the crate?
It is not recommended to leave a water bowl in your puppy's crate overnight. Puppies tend to spill water, which can result in a wet and uncomfortable sleeping area. Instead, ensure your puppy has access to fresh water whenever he is outside of the crate. During the midnight break, offer your puppy a just little bit of water, so he stays hydrated without risking spills in the crate.
What vitamins and supplements does my puppy need?
Providing your puppy with premium quality food gives them a strong start in life. However, it is important to remember that most processed foods lose essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants during manufacturing. These nutrients are crucial for a puppy’s healthy development and play a key role in preventing nutritionally induced diseases such as allergies, joint problems, and even cancer. To ensure your puppy receives all necessary nutrients, consider adding a high-quality supplement. You may wish to use the same supplements we give our dogs: NuVet Plus and NuJoint DS. NuVet contains antioxidants that help boost the immune system, strengthen the cardiovascular system, support bone structure, reduce shedding, and promote a healthy nervous system. When puppies reach 4 months of age, we begin giving them NuJoint DS and continue this supplement for life. NuJoint Ds is a natural anti-inflammatory supplement for hips and joints, formulated with precise percentages of glucosamine, chondroitin, methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), and vitamin C to support joint health and mobility.
I also give all my dogs and puppies older than 6 months of age, fish oil and Green lip mussel capsules with every meal.
How do I know how much my puppy should be eating?
Puppies require a substantial amount of food to support their growth, but it is important not to overfeed them. You should be able to feel their ribs without seeing them, and they should have a noticeable waistline when viewed from above. Rather than strictly following the feeding instructions found on the back of the dog food bag, use your judgment and adjust the amount based on your puppy’s appetite, activity level, and overall body condition. If your puppy appears too thin, you should increase their food intake. If they seem overweight, reduce the amount of food you provide. Overfeeding puppies can be harmful, so avoid adding extra weight to younger dogs. If you prefer a strong, robust dog, wait until your puppy is older than 2 years before considering increasing their weight. Puppies younger than 18 months should never be overfed. Labrador puppies, in particular, tend to look stocky and large without being overweight, so rely on your best judgment to determine whether your puppy needs more or less food.
Potty Training questions
How often do I have to take the puppy out?
When you first bring your puppy home, it is important to take him outside as frequently as possible. Providing your puppy with many opportunities to relieve himself outdoors helps reinforce good potty habits and reduces the chance of indoor accidents. During the daytime, aim to take your puppy out about every hour. The first night, a puppy will generally need to go outside every two hours. For an nine-week-old puppy, one trip outside in the middle of the night should be sufficient. By the time your puppy is ten weeks old, he should be able to hold it through the night without needing to go outside.
How long does it take to potty train my puppy?
The length of time it takes to potty train a puppy can vary depending on the individual puppy and the amount of effort you and your family put in during the first few days. Some new owners have reported that, aside from a few initial accidents, their puppy became potty trained very quickly. The wood chip system that I use is highly effective and helps facilitate the process. By the time the puppies leave my house, they are already about 90% potty trained. With consistent training and attention, your puppy should be fully potty trained by the time they reach 10 weeks of age.
It depends on the puppy and how hard you and your family work the first few days. I've had several new owners that tell me that despite a few accidents the puppy got potty trained right away. The system with wood chips I use does the job for you. By the time the puppies leave my house, they are 90% potty trained. They should be 100% potty trained by the time they are 10 weeks old.
Can I use puppy pads, or do I have to take the puppy outside?
My puppies are not accustomed to using puppy pads. Instead of using them as intended, they often tear the pads apart, which poses a potential danger if they ingest any pieces. Rather than puppy pads, my puppies are familiar with wood chips and going outside to relieve themselves. Using wood chips or encouraging outdoor potty breaks is a safer and more effective method for my puppies.
If the weather is bad outside, do you recommend letting the puppy ‘go potty’ outside anyway?
Even in bad and freezing weather, it is important to continue taking your puppy outside for potty breaks. Puppies need frequent opportunities to relieve themselves outdoors to maintain their potty training routine. As long as there is no severe weather warning, you should take your puppy outside as usual. Healthy puppies can handle a few minutes in low temperatures without issue. However, if the weather is hazardous, such as heavy rain or dangerous conditions, use caution and consider your puppy's safety before heading outside.
Training Questions
When can the puppy socialize with other dogs?
Socializing your puppy with other dogs is important, but you must first consider the health status of the dogs your puppy will interact with. If you are confident that the other dogs are healthy, it is generally safe for your puppy to play with them. However, if your puppy will be around other puppies, it is important to ask about their origins. Puppies from shelters, pet shops, or puppy mills may carry highly contagious and sometimes fatal diseases, so your puppy should not be allowed near them.
Until your puppy is at least 10 weeks old and has received two sets of vaccinations, avoid taking your puppy on walks. Wait until your puppy is at least 4 months old and has completed all puppy shots before visiting dog parks or pet shops. Remember, trips to the veterinarian are not opportunities for socialization—while at the vet, always keep your puppy in your arms to ensure their safety and health.
When do we start puppy training classes?
Puppy training classes should begin when your puppy is 12 weeks old and after he has had his 3rd set of shots. Starting classes at this age helps ensure that your puppy receives early guidance in basic commands, socialization, and good behavior. Early training lays a strong foundation for your puppy’s development and makes future learning easier and more effective. Remember to follow your veterinarian’s recommendations for vaccinations and health precautions before attending group classes.
Health Questions
Where do I find a vet?
Finding the right veterinarian is an important step in caring for your new puppy. The best place to start is by asking friends, neighbors, or other local pet owners for recommendations. They can often share their experiences and suggest trustworthy veterinarians in your area.
When choosing a veterinary hospital, it is generally recommended to select one where the owner is actively involved in the practice. These privately owned hospitals often provide more personalized care and attention. Try to avoid large corporate veterinary hospitals, as they may not always prioritize individual attention and have the same level of commitment to your pet’s health.
What shots will the puppy have when I take it home?
The puppies have started their core vaccinations and de-worming schedule here at my house. At around 6 ½ weeks old, puppies receive vaccines that protect against several serious diseases: Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, and Parainfluenza. These initial shots help build the puppy’s immunity as they begin to explore their new environment.
In addition to vaccinations, de-worming is a key part of early puppy care. De-worming begins when the puppy is just 2 weeks old, and it is repeated every 2 weeks until the puppy leaves for its new home. This helps protect the puppy from common intestinal parasites that can affect young dogs.
Heartworm prevention is also essential for a puppy’s long-term health. This preventive treatment typically starts at 2 months of age to protect against heartworm disease, which can be life-threatening if left untreated. Heartworm preventatives are by prescription only. You should get it from your vet on your puppy’s first visit.
When do I take the puppy for his first vet check-up?
It is important to schedule your puppy’s first veterinary check-up as soon as possible after bringing him home. While you can take your puppy to the vet at any time, you must ensure he goes by the time he needs his next set of vaccinations. Sticking to the recommended vaccination schedule is crucial for your puppy’s health and protection against disease. Missing a vaccination appointment by a few days is usually not critical, but delaying by more than a week increases the risk that your puppy could become ill. Regular and timely vet visits help your puppy stay on track with preventative care and set the foundation for a healthy future.
How often do puppies get shots?
Puppies typically receive their vaccinations every three weeks until they are about four months old. The final vaccine in this early series is the rabies shot, which is administered when the puppy reaches four months of age. After the initial puppy vaccinations are complete, the timing of future vaccines can vary and depends on your veterinarian's advice, local county requirements, and your own preferences.
It is recommended to give your dog a booster shot of the core vaccines at one year of age, and then continue with booster shots every three years. The exception is the kennel cough vaccine (Bordetella), which should be administered every twelve months. If your dog is frequently boarded or visits dog parks, consider getting Bordetella boosters every six months to ensure continued protection.
When do I have to start applying flea and tick prevention?
You should only begin applying flea and tick preventatives if there is a known problem with these parasites in your area or if you see even one flea or tick. There is no need to expose your puppy to potentially toxic substances if there is little to no risk of fleas or ticks. It is a good idea to keep a small supply of flea and tick products at home, so you are prepared to use them immediately if you notice any signs of infestation. Be cautious about using newer products that claim to eliminate all parasites, internal and external, with a single dose, as these can be extremely toxic.
Should I neuter my pet?
Neutering your pet is recommended, but timing is important. You should not neuter your dog before he or she reaches 18 months of age. For male dogs, if you prefer your pet to develop a larger, more muscular stud appearance—it is advisable to wait until your dog is about 4 years old before neutering. This approach allows for optimal physical development before the procedure.
The AVMA issued a new policy after years of research:
"Although spay/neuter is an important part of effective population control programs, and may benefit individual dogs and cats if performed at the appropriate time, whether and when to spay/neuter specific animals requires the application of science and professional judgment to ensure the best outcome for veterinary patients and their owners. Prevention of unexpected litters; reduced incidences of some cancers and reproductive diseases; and prevention and amelioration of certain undesirable behaviors have been documented as benefits to spaying/neutering dogs and cats. However, potential health problems associated with spaying and neutering have also been identified, including an increased risk of prostatic cancer in males; increased risks of bone cancer and hip dysplasia in large-breed dogs associated with sterilization before maturity; and increased incidences of obesity, diabetes, urinary tract infections, urinary incontinence, and hypothyroidism.”
Everyday Living Questions
Is there a recommended temperature in the house for the puppy at night?
The ideal nighttime temperature for your puppy is one that feels comfortable for you. A 7-week-old Labrador puppy will be cozy at temperatures between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. If the room temperature rises above 75 degrees Fahrenheit, your puppy may become too warm.
When can I bathe my puppy?
You are able to bathe your puppy as soon as you bring him home, even on the first day. When bathing your puppy, make sure to use a shampoo that is specifically formulated for puppies, along with warm water. After the bath, towel dry your puppy thoroughly, and use a blower if the weather is cold to keep him comfortable. Labrador puppies generally enjoy water, so the experience should be fun for both of you. However, if your puppy becomes stressed during the bath, it is best to stop, rinse him off, and try bathing again another day. There is no need to use flea shampoo at this stage.
Crate Training Questions
Should I Crate train my puppy?
Crate training is highly beneficial for puppies, as dogs naturally feel secure in small, enclosed spaces. Providing your puppy with a dog crate gives him a comfortable and safe place to stay when you are not present or cannot supervise him directly. If you choose not to crate train, you can confine your puppy to a small, defined area such as the kitchen or bathroom. However, be aware that in these spaces, your puppy may chew on cabinets or other items, and house training may become more challenging.
Should we leave a light on at night for the puppy?
When deciding whether to leave a light on at night for your puppy, observe how he reacts. You can try leaving the light on; if your puppy settles down quickly and falls asleep, then the light is likely not an issue. However, if he continues to cry and has trouble calming down, it may be better to turn the lights off to help him rest. Some people choose to leave a TV or radio on for their puppy at night, but this can actually keep your puppy awake longer and prevent him from establishing a healthy sleep routine. Instead, if you want to provide some soothing background noise, playing classical music may help your puppy feel relaxed and comfortable during the night.
I leave Alexa playing classical music for the puppies and dogs all the time. Playing classical music continuously can help puppies and dogs feel calm and relaxed. This soothing background sound provides comfort and promotes a peaceful environment, especially during nighttime or when the puppy needs to rest. Keeping Alexa playing classical music throughout the day ensures that the dogs are surrounded by gentle, calming audio, supporting their well-being and helping them settle more easily.
Where should I place the crate the first few nights?
During the first few nights, it is best to place your puppy’s crate as far away as possible from busy or high-traffic areas in your home. Choosing a calm and quiet location helps your puppy relax and fall asleep more easily, minimizing distractions and promoting better rest. If your puppy seems especially anxious or insecure and continues to cry for more than 15 to 20 minutes, consider moving the crate—leaving the door open—into your bedroom, where he can see you. This sense of security can be very comforting, as some puppies are naturally more independent, while others need to be close to you to settle down. For some puppies, simply having your hand hanging from the bed where they can touch you is enough to help them feel safe and fall asleep. Once your puppy is sleeping soundly, gently place him back in his crate and close the door. These early nights are an important time for your puppy to bond with his new family, so it is essential to create a positive and reassuring experience and avoid anything that could be traumatic.
If the puppy cries at night, should we leave him or comfort him?
To help your puppy settle at night, play with him extensively right before bedtime. The goal is to ensure he is tired and ready to sleep. If your puppy starts crying after you leave him, it is best to leave him alone. Typically, the crying should only last for a few minutes. Avoid picking him up or comforting him immediately, as puppies are very sensitive and can smell and hear your presence even before a human baby would. However, if the crying persists for more than 15 to 20 minutes, this indicates that your puppy may need something. In such cases, take him out for a brief play session until he is very tired and nearly falling asleep. This approach helps your puppy feel secure and encourages him to settle down for the night.
Feeding Questions
How often do I feed my puppy?
Feeding your puppy at the right intervals is essential for his growth and health. At 7-8 weeks of age, you should provide about ½ to ¾ cup of food three times per day. When your puppy reaches 8 weeks, increase the portion to approximately 1 cup, still divided into three meals throughout the day. After your puppy turns 10 weeks old, you can transition to feeding him twice daily. To do this, simply divide the total daily food amount into two portions instead of three. Remember to adjust the amount of food as your puppy continues to grow to ensure he receives the proper nutrition.
What do you feed the puppies?
Puppy Food Recommendation: Our puppies are fed with TLC Puppy Food. This high-quality food is specially chosen to meet their nutritional needs and support healthy growth and development during the early stages of life up to 4-5 months.
Can I give treats/snacks to the puppy?
Treats and snacks can be introduced to your puppy, but it is important to wait until he is at least 10 weeks old. Offering treats before this age is not recommended. When your puppy is old enough, treats should be given solely as a reward, such as during training or positive behavior reinforcement. Simply being adorable or cute should not be a reason for giving treats, as this can encourage unwanted habits and undermine effective training. By using treats purposefully and sparingly, you help your puppy learn appropriate behaviors and maintain a healthy routine.
Do I leave a water bowl overnight in the crate?
It is not recommended to leave a water bowl in your puppy's crate overnight. Puppies tend to spill water, which can result in a wet and uncomfortable sleeping area. Instead, ensure your puppy has access to fresh water whenever he is outside of the crate. During the midnight break, offer your puppy a just little bit of water, so he stays hydrated without risking spills in the crate.
What vitamins and supplements does my puppy need?
Providing your puppy with premium quality food gives them a strong start in life. However, it is important to remember that most processed foods lose essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants during manufacturing. These nutrients are crucial for a puppy’s healthy development and play a key role in preventing nutritionally induced diseases such as allergies, joint problems, and even cancer. To ensure your puppy receives all necessary nutrients, consider adding a high-quality supplement. You may wish to use the same supplements we give our dogs: NuVet Plus and NuJoint DS. NuVet contains antioxidants that help boost the immune system, strengthen the cardiovascular system, support bone structure, reduce shedding, and promote a healthy nervous system. When puppies reach 4 months of age, we begin giving them NuJoint DS and continue this supplement for life. NuJoint Ds is a natural anti-inflammatory supplement for hips and joints, formulated with precise percentages of glucosamine, chondroitin, methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), and vitamin C to support joint health and mobility.
I also give all my dogs and puppies older than 6 months of age, fish oil and Green lip mussel capsules with every meal.
How do I know how much my puppy should be eating?
Puppies require a substantial amount of food to support their growth, but it is important not to overfeed them. You should be able to feel their ribs without seeing them, and they should have a noticeable waistline when viewed from above. Rather than strictly following the feeding instructions found on the back of the dog food bag, use your judgment and adjust the amount based on your puppy’s appetite, activity level, and overall body condition. If your puppy appears too thin, you should increase their food intake. If they seem overweight, reduce the amount of food you provide. Overfeeding puppies can be harmful, so avoid adding extra weight to younger dogs. If you prefer a strong, robust dog, wait until your puppy is older than 2 years before considering increasing their weight. Puppies younger than 18 months should never be overfed. Labrador puppies, in particular, tend to look stocky and large without being overweight, so rely on your best judgment to determine whether your puppy needs more or less food.
Potty Training questions
How often do I have to take the puppy out?
When you first bring your puppy home, it is important to take him outside as frequently as possible. Providing your puppy with many opportunities to relieve himself outdoors helps reinforce good potty habits and reduces the chance of indoor accidents. During the daytime, aim to take your puppy out about every hour. The first night, a puppy will generally need to go outside every two hours. For an nine-week-old puppy, one trip outside in the middle of the night should be sufficient. By the time your puppy is ten weeks old, he should be able to hold it through the night without needing to go outside.
How long does it take to potty train my puppy?
The length of time it takes to potty train a puppy can vary depending on the individual puppy and the amount of effort you and your family put in during the first few days. Some new owners have reported that, aside from a few initial accidents, their puppy became potty trained very quickly. The wood chip system that I use is highly effective and helps facilitate the process. By the time the puppies leave my house, they are already about 90% potty trained. With consistent training and attention, your puppy should be fully potty trained by the time they reach 10 weeks of age.
It depends on the puppy and how hard you and your family work the first few days. I've had several new owners that tell me that despite a few accidents the puppy got potty trained right away. The system with wood chips I use does the job for you. By the time the puppies leave my house, they are 90% potty trained. They should be 100% potty trained by the time they are 10 weeks old.
Can I use puppy pads, or do I have to take the puppy outside?
My puppies are not accustomed to using puppy pads. Instead of using them as intended, they often tear the pads apart, which poses a potential danger if they ingest any pieces. Rather than puppy pads, my puppies are familiar with wood chips and going outside to relieve themselves. Using wood chips or encouraging outdoor potty breaks is a safer and more effective method for my puppies.
If the weather is bad outside, do you recommend letting the puppy ‘go potty’ outside anyway?
Even in bad and freezing weather, it is important to continue taking your puppy outside for potty breaks. Puppies need frequent opportunities to relieve themselves outdoors to maintain their potty training routine. As long as there is no severe weather warning, you should take your puppy outside as usual. Healthy puppies can handle a few minutes in low temperatures without issue. However, if the weather is hazardous, such as heavy rain or dangerous conditions, use caution and consider your puppy's safety before heading outside.
Training Questions
When can the puppy socialize with other dogs?
Socializing your puppy with other dogs is important, but you must first consider the health status of the dogs your puppy will interact with. If you are confident that the other dogs are healthy, it is generally safe for your puppy to play with them. However, if your puppy will be around other puppies, it is important to ask about their origins. Puppies from shelters, pet shops, or puppy mills may carry highly contagious and sometimes fatal diseases, so your puppy should not be allowed near them.
Until your puppy is at least 10 weeks old and has received two sets of vaccinations, avoid taking your puppy on walks. Wait until your puppy is at least 4 months old and has completed all puppy shots before visiting dog parks or pet shops. Remember, trips to the veterinarian are not opportunities for socialization—while at the vet, always keep your puppy in your arms to ensure their safety and health.
When do we start puppy training classes?
Puppy training classes should begin when your puppy is 12 weeks old and after he has had his 3rd set of shots. Starting classes at this age helps ensure that your puppy receives early guidance in basic commands, socialization, and good behavior. Early training lays a strong foundation for your puppy’s development and makes future learning easier and more effective. Remember to follow your veterinarian’s recommendations for vaccinations and health precautions before attending group classes.
Health Questions
Where do I find a vet?
Finding the right veterinarian is an important step in caring for your new puppy. The best place to start is by asking friends, neighbors, or other local pet owners for recommendations. They can often share their experiences and suggest trustworthy veterinarians in your area.
When choosing a veterinary hospital, it is generally recommended to select one where the owner is actively involved in the practice. These privately owned hospitals often provide more personalized care and attention. Try to avoid large corporate veterinary hospitals, as they may not always prioritize individual attention and have the same level of commitment to your pet’s health.
What shots will the puppy have when I take it home?
The puppies have started their core vaccinations and de-worming schedule here at my house. At around 6 ½ weeks old, puppies receive vaccines that protect against several serious diseases: Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, and Parainfluenza. These initial shots help build the puppy’s immunity as they begin to explore their new environment.
In addition to vaccinations, de-worming is a key part of early puppy care. De-worming begins when the puppy is just 2 weeks old, and it is repeated every 2 weeks until the puppy leaves for its new home. This helps protect the puppy from common intestinal parasites that can affect young dogs.
Heartworm prevention is also essential for a puppy’s long-term health. This preventive treatment typically starts at 2 months of age to protect against heartworm disease, which can be life-threatening if left untreated. Heartworm preventatives are by prescription only. You should get it from your vet on your puppy’s first visit.
When do I take the puppy for his first vet check-up?
It is important to schedule your puppy’s first veterinary check-up as soon as possible after bringing him home. While you can take your puppy to the vet at any time, you must ensure he goes by the time he needs his next set of vaccinations. Sticking to the recommended vaccination schedule is crucial for your puppy’s health and protection against disease. Missing a vaccination appointment by a few days is usually not critical, but delaying by more than a week increases the risk that your puppy could become ill. Regular and timely vet visits help your puppy stay on track with preventative care and set the foundation for a healthy future.
How often do puppies get shots?
Puppies typically receive their vaccinations every three weeks until they are about four months old. The final vaccine in this early series is the rabies shot, which is administered when the puppy reaches four months of age. After the initial puppy vaccinations are complete, the timing of future vaccines can vary and depends on your veterinarian's advice, local county requirements, and your own preferences.
It is recommended to give your dog a booster shot of the core vaccines at one year of age, and then continue with booster shots every three years. The exception is the kennel cough vaccine (Bordetella), which should be administered every twelve months. If your dog is frequently boarded or visits dog parks, consider getting Bordetella boosters every six months to ensure continued protection.
When do I have to start applying flea and tick prevention?
You should only begin applying flea and tick preventatives if there is a known problem with these parasites in your area or if you see even one flea or tick. There is no need to expose your puppy to potentially toxic substances if there is little to no risk of fleas or ticks. It is a good idea to keep a small supply of flea and tick products at home, so you are prepared to use them immediately if you notice any signs of infestation. Be cautious about using newer products that claim to eliminate all parasites, internal and external, with a single dose, as these can be extremely toxic.
Should I neuter my pet?
Neutering your pet is recommended, but timing is important. You should not neuter your dog before he or she reaches 18 months of age. For male dogs, if you prefer your pet to develop a larger, more muscular stud appearance—it is advisable to wait until your dog is about 4 years old before neutering. This approach allows for optimal physical development before the procedure.
The AVMA issued a new policy after years of research:
"Although spay/neuter is an important part of effective population control programs, and may benefit individual dogs and cats if performed at the appropriate time, whether and when to spay/neuter specific animals requires the application of science and professional judgment to ensure the best outcome for veterinary patients and their owners. Prevention of unexpected litters; reduced incidences of some cancers and reproductive diseases; and prevention and amelioration of certain undesirable behaviors have been documented as benefits to spaying/neutering dogs and cats. However, potential health problems associated with spaying and neutering have also been identified, including an increased risk of prostatic cancer in males; increased risks of bone cancer and hip dysplasia in large-breed dogs associated with sterilization before maturity; and increased incidences of obesity, diabetes, urinary tract infections, urinary incontinence, and hypothyroidism.”