​1. Initial Health Check and Veterinary Visits

2. Puppy Vaccination Schedule

3. Nutrition & Feeding

4. Heartworm, Flea & Tick Prevention

5. Spay & Neuter

6. Training, Socialization & Behavioral Health

7. Safe Environment at Home

8.Final Thoughts

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Bringing home a new puppy is exciting—but it also comes with a lot of responsibility. Whether you're a first-time dog parent or it’s been a while since your last puppy, this guide will walk you through the most important aspects of early care to ensure your furry friend starts life healthy, happy, and protected.

 

1. Initial Health Check & In-Veterinary Visits

Your first stop should be the veterinarian - call us and set up an appointment!  Puppies need a complete physical exam within the first few days of coming home. This helps identify any congenital issues, infections, or other health concerns.

At this first appointment, your vet should:

• Assess your puppy’s overall health

• Discuss a vaccination schedule

• Test for parasites (like roundworms or hookworms)

• Possibly begin flea and heartworm prevention

• Answer your questions about food, sleep, potty training (consistency is most important), and more

 

2. Puppy Vaccination Schedule

Vaccines protect your puppy from life-threatening diseases. Here's a general timeline, but always follow your vet’s guidance:

 Core Vaccines:

• 6–8 weeks: Distemper, Adenovirus Parainfluenza, Parvovirus (DAPP combo)

• 10–12 weeks: Second DAPP shot & Bordetella (kennel cough)

• 14–16 weeks: Third DAPP shot + Leptospirosis & Rabies

• at least 18-18 weeks: Final Distemper/Parvo

   

 Optional Vaccines (based on lifestyle):

• Canine Influenza

• Lyme disease

Depending on the vaccine, we may recommend boosters yearly or every 3 years.

 

3. Nutrition & Feeding

High-quality nutrition is the foundation for healthy growth. Look for puppy food that is:

• Formulated for puppies (not adult dogs)

• Labeled “complete and balanced”

• Look for puppy food that has "small bites"

Feed according to weight and age guidelines on the packaging. Most puppies eat 3–4 times a day until around six  months of age, then transition to twice daily.

 

Avoid:

• Overfeeding (can cause joint problems in large breeds)

• Table scraps or rich human food (can upset the digestive system)

• Raw food unless specifically guided by your veterinarian

 

4. Heartworm, Flea & Tick Prevention

• Heartworm is a potentially fatal disease transmitted by mosquitoes. Start monthly heartworm prevention as early as 6–8 weeks old. Your vet will recommend a safe product based on your puppy’s weight.

• Fleas and ticks can also spread dangerous diseases.  Choose a vet-recommended flea/tick preventative—available as chewables, collars, or topical treatments.

 

5. Spay & Neuter

Talk to your vet about the right time to spay or neuter your puppy. Most are fixed around 6 to 12 months of age, though this can vary depending on breed and size. Spaying/neutering helps prevent certain cancers, behavioral issues, and unwanted litters.

 

6. Training, Socialization & Behavioral Health

Early training and socialization are key to raising a confident, well-behaved dog. Start with:

• Basic obedience commands like sit, stay, and come

• Potty training with positive reinforcement

• Leash training using a properly fitted harness

Expose your puppy to different environments, people, and pets during the critical socialization period (8–16 weeks). Always make new experiences safe and positive.

 

7. Safe Environment at Home

Puppies love to chew and explore. Puppy-proof your home by:

• Removing electrical cords, toxic plants, and small objects

• Providing safe chew toys

• Setting up a designated sleeping and potty area

Consider crate training—it helps with potty training and gives your puppy a secure place to relax.

 

Final Thoughts

Your new puppy depends on you for everything—from nutrition and health to love and leadership. With proper care, regular veterinary visits, vaccinations, and training, you’re laying the foundation for a long, joyful life together.

Need guidance or want to schedule a wellness visit for your puppy?  Call, email, or submit a contact form https://www.crittersanimalservices.com/contact for expert care and trusted advice.