Puppy First Year Health Checklist: Month by Month

Bringing home a puppy is joyful and a little overwhelming. The first twelve months set the foundation for lifelong health, and most of the important steps follow a predictable timeline. Use this puppy health checklist to see what to expect each month.

Weeks 6 to 8: The first vet exam

Book your puppy's first exam as soon as you bring them home. Your vet will check weight, heart, eyes, ears and teeth, start the first round of core vaccines, and talk about deworming. Bring any paperwork from the breeder or shelter. If you want an in-person visit, you can find a nearby veterinarian and book one this week.

Months 2 to 3: Vaccines, prevention and socialization

Puppies typically get a series of core vaccines (distemper, parvovirus, adenovirus) every three to four weeks through at least 16 weeks of age; in high-risk situations the vet may continue through 18 to 20 weeks. Ask your vet when to start flea, tick and heartworm prevention. This is also the key socialization window, so offer gentle, positive exposure to new people, sounds and surfaces.

Month 4: Rabies and teething

Rabies vaccination usually happens between 12 and 16 weeks, depending on local law. Teething starts around now, so expect chewing and offer safe chew toys. Mild gum soreness is normal. Bleeding, a foul smell or refusing food is not.

Months 5 to 6: Growth and spay or neuter planning

Growth is fast. Weigh your puppy regularly and adjust portions with your vet's guidance. Ask when spay or neuter makes sense, since timing varies by breed, size and your vet's recommendation. Start brushing teeth now so it becomes routine.

Months 7 to 9: Adolescence

Adolescent puppies test boundaries, and some develop new fears. Keep training consistent, keep prevention on schedule and watch weight. Large breeds are still growing, so check with your vet before switching to adult food.

Months 10 to 12: The one-year wellness exam

Schedule a first-birthday exam with a booster review, parasite testing and a dental check. Ask whether it's time for adult food and how to adjust exercise.

Keep every record in one place

Vaccine dates, deworming, weights and microchip numbers add up fast. Store them in a digital pet health vault so you can pull them up at the groomer, daycare or vet in seconds.

When to call a vet right away

Puppies can dehydrate quickly. Contact a vet promptly for repeated vomiting, bloody or persistent diarrhea, lethargy, refusing food, trouble breathing or pale gums. In an emergency, go to the nearest emergency clinic.

FAQs

How many vet visits does a puppy need in the first year?

Most puppies have three to four visits in their first four to five months for vaccines and checks, then a wellness exam around one year. Your vet sets the exact schedule.