Puppy's First Vet Visit: How to Prepare and What to Expect

Scheduling the First Visit

Your puppy's first veterinary visit should happen within the first week of bringing them home, regardless of age. Even if your breeder or shelter says the puppy is healthy, a professional examination is essential for establishing a baseline and catching any hidden issues.

Ideally, schedule the appointment when your puppy is naturally calm — usually after a nap or play session. Avoid scheduling during peak clinic hours when the waiting room is crowded and stressful.

What to Bring

• Any medical records from the breeder or shelter, including vaccination history and deworming records
• A fresh stool sample (collected within 12 hours of the appointment) for parasite screening
• A list of questions — write them down before the visit so you don't forget in the moment
• A favorite toy or blanket to help your puppy feel more comfortable
• Treats for positive reinforcement during the exam

What the Veterinarian Will Check

A comprehensive first-exam covers every system in your puppy's body:

• Weight and body condition: Establishes a baseline for growth tracking
• Temperature, pulse, and respiration: Vital signs confirm normal physiological function
• Eyes and ears: Checking for discharge, infection, or congenital abnormalities
• Teeth and mouth: Assessing bite alignment and dental health
• Heart and lungs: Listening for murmurs, irregular rhythms, or abnormal breathing sounds
• Abdomen: Palpating for hernias, organ enlargement, or pain
• Skin and coat: Checking for parasites, infections, or allergies
• Joints and bones: Assessing hip and elbow development, especially in large breeds
• Genitalia: Checking for undescended testicles in males

Vaccination Schedule Overview

Your vet will recommend a vaccination protocol based on your puppy's age, health status, and local disease risks. The core vaccination schedule typically includes:

• 6-8 weeks: First DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus)
• 10-12 weeks: Second DHPP + optional Bordetella (kennel cough)
• 14-16 weeks: Third DHPP + Rabies (required by law in most areas)
• 12-16 months: Booster for all core vaccines

Non-core vaccines (Lyme, Leptospirosis, Canine Influenza) may be recommended based on your geographic location and lifestyle.

Questions to Ask Your Veterinarian

• What is my puppy's current weight, and what should they weigh as an adult?
• What food do you recommend, and how much should I feed per day?
• When should I schedule spaying or neutering?
• What parasite prevention do you recommend for our area?
• Are there any breed-specific health concerns I should watch for?
• How often should I schedule check-ups during the first year?
• What are the signs of emergency that warrant an immediate visit?

Building a relationship with your veterinarian from day one is one of the best investments you can make in your puppy's lifelong health. Don't hesitate to ask questions — no question is too small when it comes to your new companion.