Your puppy’s first sixteen weeks

Most puppies arrive home at around eight weeks, and the next two months are busy. The first visit is a check-up and the first set of core vaccines. We look at the eyes, ears, heart, gums and belly, and weigh the puppy so we can track growth.

The second and third vaccine visits follow at three- to four-week intervals, ending at around sixteen weeks with the rabies vaccine. Deworming happens at each visit. Bring the breeder’s card if you have one; it tells us what has already been given.

When can your puppy go outside? We suggest waiting until a week after the final vaccine for walks on streets and parks where many dogs pass. Before that, carry them out to see traffic and people, and let them meet vaccinated dogs you know, at home.

Use these weeks for gentle handling. Touch the paws, look in the ears, lift the lips. A puppy who is used to being handled at home will find every vet visit, nail trim and bath far easier for the rest of their life.