The first year has more appointments in it than any other, and they arrive in a slightly confusing order. Here is the shape of it, so you know what’s coming.
Weeks 6 to 9: the first visit
A full health check, a weight, and a conversation about worming and diet. If they came from a breeder or rescue, bring the paperwork. This visit is mostly about starting well and about the puppy learning that this building is not frightening.
Weeks 8 to 12: the vaccination course
Given in two or more visits a few weeks apart. We’ll tell you when your puppy is fully covered and can meet unknown dogs and walk in public places, which is usually a week or two after the final one.
Weeks 8 to 16: socialisation, which matters more than people expect
The window for a puppy to learn that new things are unremarkable closes early. Carry them out to see traffic, buggies, hats and umbrellas before they can walk in public. Puppy classes are worth doing and worth doing well.
Around 6 months: the neutering conversation
Timing genuinely varies by breed and size and it has changed in recent years. Come in and talk about it rather than working from a number you read somewhere.
Throughout: microchip, parasite cover and weight
Chip details registered and kept current, parasite prevention matched to how they live, and a weight recorded at every visit. That weight line over the first year is genuinely useful information later.
Not sure whether this needs a visit?
Call us on (555) 018-4400 and describe what you’ve noticed. Our nurses triage these calls all day and there’s no charge for asking. If it’s outside our hours and you’re worried, call [emergency hospital name] on [number].
This guide is general information, not a diagnosis. Nothing here replaces examining your specific animal.
Related service
Vaccinations