Clinical review status: no licensed veterinarian has reviewed this publication. It is source-led general orientation, not veterinary advice, a diagnosis, a treatment plan or dosing guidance. Ask a qualified veterinarian about your pet.
Book an early veterinary visit
Bring the source and ownership record, birth date or estimate, microchip details, every vaccine and parasite record, diet, current products and any signs of illness. The vet can examine the puppy and set a vaccination, parasite, nutrition and follow-up plan.
Vaccination and exposure belong in one plan
The 2024 WSAVA vaccination guidelines explain why puppy vaccination is a series and also state that careful socialisation can begin before the series is complete. Ask the veterinarian which environments and known healthy dogs are appropriate locally; avoid sick dogs and uncontrolled, contaminated or high-traffic dog areas.
Socialisation is calm learning
AAHA's current new-puppy guidance describes managed exposure that builds confidence rather than forced interaction. Let the puppy observe people, sounds, surfaces, handling and other animals at a comfortable distance. Stop or increase distance when the puppy shows fear or cannot disengage.
Use reward-based training
The AVSAB humane training position statement supports reward-based methods and advises against aversive methods. Choose a trainer who explains methods and credentials, welcomes observation and does not use pain, fear, intimidation, shock, prong collars or dominance claims.
Heat, food and growth
Puppies can be vulnerable to heat and overexertion. Adjust activity to conditions and the individual, provide a cool environment and never leave a puppy in a parked vehicle. Feed a complete diet appropriate to growth on veterinary advice; do not add supplements or impose an online calorie target without assessment.
Sources and review boundary
References: WSAVA vaccination, AAHA puppy guidance and AVSAB humane training. Checked 1 August 2026; no licensed veterinarian has clinically reviewed this page.
Frequently asked
Must socialisation wait until every vaccine is finished?
Not necessarily. Current veterinary guidance supports careful socialisation before completion, while avoiding sick dogs and uncontrolled high-risk areas. Ask your vet for a local risk plan.
What training methods should I use?
Use reward-based methods. Avoid training that relies on pain, fear, intimidation, shock, prong collars or dominance.
Can an online chart set my puppy's vaccine dates?
No. The treating veterinarian must use age, records, health, product instructions and local risk to set the series.
How should I exercise a puppy in the heat?
Adjust activity to conditions and the puppy's signals, provide a cool environment and stop before distress. Ask your vet about individual exercise limits.
What should I bring to the first vet visit?
Bring origin and ownership details, age, microchip, vaccine and parasite records, diet and product names, plus notes on any health or behaviour concerns.