Bringing home a new puppy is one of life’s greatest joys. Those little paws, wagging tails, and endless cuddles can melt anyone’s heart. But along with the excitement comes responsibility — and one of the very first steps in ensuring your pup’s long, healthy life is scheduling their first veterinary appointment.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly what happens during your puppy’s first vet visit, what to bring, which vaccines and tests are typically given, and how you can make the experience as stress-free as possible for your new best friend.
When Should Puppies Go to the Vet for the First Time?
Most veterinarians recommend that puppies have their first wellness exam at 6 to 8 weeks old. If you adopted your pup from a breeder or shelter, they may have already received their first round of vaccines, but it’s still important to have a vet perform a complete checkup.
This visit establishes:
- A baseline record of your puppy’s health.
- A chance to check for early issues (congenital conditions, parasites, infections).
- A vaccination schedule tailored to your puppy’s age and lifestyle.
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What to Bring to Your Puppy’s First Vet Visit
To make sure your appointment goes smoothly, come prepared with:
- Health records or paperwork from the breeder, shelter, or rescue.
- A fresh stool sample (yes, it’s important!) so the vet can check for parasites.
- A leash and secure carrier (puppies can be wiggly and nervous).
- A list of questions you want to ask (diet, exercise, training, etc.).
Pro tip: Bring along your pup’s favorite toy or a blanket with familiar scents — it can help reduce anxiety.
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What Happens During the Exam?
Your puppy’s first vet visit usually lasts longer than a typical appointment since the doctor will want to cover a lot of ground. Here’s what you can expect:
1. Physical Exam
The vet will perform a head-to-tail checkup, including:
- Listening to the heart and lungs
- Checking eyes, ears, nose, and mouth
- Feeling lymph nodes and abdomen
- Examining the skin and coat for parasites
- Looking at teeth and bite alignment
- Inspecting joints and gait for early orthopedic issues
2. Weight and Growth Tracking
Puppies grow rapidly, so accurate weight measurements are essential. The vet will record this to track development.
3. Vaccination Plan
Most puppies begin their core vaccine series at 6–8 weeks. Core vaccines include:
- Distemper
- Adenovirus (Hepatitis)
- Parvovirus
- Rabies (usually at 12–16 weeks)
Optional (non-core) vaccines may be recommended depending on your region and lifestyle:
- Bordetella (kennel cough)
- Leptospirosis
- Lyme disease
4. Parasite Screening and Treatment
The vet will check for intestinal worms, fleas, and ticks. Deworming medication is often given at this first visit, even if parasites aren’t detected yet.
5. Discussion of Nutrition and Care
Expect your vet to ask about your puppy’s food, feeding schedule, and appetite. They may suggest portion sizes and the right type of food for healthy growth.
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Vaccination and Checkup Schedule for Puppies
Here’s a typical puppy vaccination timeline (may vary by vet and region):
- 6–8 weeks: First DHPP (distemper, adenovirus, parvo, parainfluenza), deworming
- 10–12 weeks: Second DHPP, optional non-core vaccines
- 14–16 weeks: Third DHPP, rabies vaccine
- 6 months: Spay/neuter consultation, booster shots
After the first year, most dogs only need annual wellness exams and booster vaccines every 1–3 years.
How to Reduce Puppy Stress at the Vet
Vet visits can be overwhelming for puppies. Here’s how to help your furry friend relax:
- Handle paws, ears, and mouth at home to get them used to being touched.
- Take car rides before the vet visit so the trip doesn’t feel unusual.
- Bring treats to reward calm behavior.
- Stay calm yourself — puppies pick up on your energy.
Cost of a Puppy’s First Vet Visit
The price can vary depending on location and services provided, but here’s a ballpark:
- Basic exam: $50–$100
- Vaccinations: $20–$40 each
- Deworming: $20–$50
- Fecal test: $25–$50
Total: Around $100–$250 for the first visit.
Why the First Vet Visit Matters So Much
Your puppy’s first trip to the vet sets the foundation for their lifelong health. Early detection of medical issues, a tailored vaccination plan, and professional advice on care give your pup the best chance at a long, happy life.
Plus, establishing a positive relationship with your vet early on makes future visits much less stressful — for both you and your dog.
Final Thoughts
Bringing your puppy to the vet for the first time may feel intimidating, but it’s an exciting step in responsible pet ownership. By preparing ahead, asking the right questions, and following your vet’s recommendations, you’ll set your dog on the path to a healthy, happy future.
After all, those first wags at the vet are just the beginning of a lifetime of love and companionship. 🐾
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