Welcome home,
little one.
Bringing home a puppy comes with excitement, new routines and plenty of questions. This guide is a practical starting point for navigating those first weeks together.
Their world just
changed completely.
A new home means new people, smells, sounds, routines and surroundings. Give your puppy time to settle in, introduce new experiences gradually and start building routines that help life feel predictable and comfortable.
The first week
checklist.
Tap each item as you go. You don’t have to accomplish everything at once. The goal is to start building a safe, comfortable routine.
Starting their care
on the right paw.
Your puppy’s first veterinary visit is an opportunity to review their health, history and individual needs, and to start planning their ongoing care.
Previous health records
If available, bring vaccination records, previous veterinary information and details about any medication or treatment your puppy has received.
Their current routine
Be ready to discuss feeding, behaviour, activity, toileting and anything you’ve noticed since your puppy came home.
Preventive care
Your veterinary team can review vaccination history and discuss appropriate preventive care based on your puppy’s age, history, lifestyle and individual needs.
Your questions
Write down anything you’re unsure about. Your first visit is a good time to ask questions about caring for your new puppy.
Prevention starts
early.
Vaccination and parasite prevention are important parts of puppy care. The appropriate plan can vary, so your veterinarian should recommend a schedule based on your puppy’s individual circumstances.
Vaccination
Bring any existing vaccination records to your appointment. Your veterinary team can review what has already been given and discuss what may be appropriate next.
VACCINATION GUIDE →Parasite Prevention
Parasite prevention should be discussed with your veterinarian so recommendations can be matched to your puppy and their lifestyle.
PARASITE PREVENTION →
Little routines.
Big difference.
Consistency can help your puppy settle into their new life. Build routines gradually and adjust them as your puppy grows.
Nutrition
Keep feeding consistent and discuss nutrition with your veterinary team if you’re unsure what is appropriate for your puppy.
Rest
Give your puppy a comfortable place where they can settle and rest away from too much activity.
Learning
Keep learning experiences positive, gradual and appropriate for your puppy’s age and individual comfort.
Connection
Spend time together, learn their personality and give them space to become comfortable with their new family.
This is only
the beginning.
Home
Visit
Care
Routines
Together
Questions worth
asking.
Every puppy is different. These are useful conversation starters for your veterinary visit.
A note about this guide
This guide provides general pet care information and does not replace veterinary assessment or advice specific to your puppy. Vaccination, parasite prevention, nutrition and other care recommendations can vary based on your puppy’s age, history, health and lifestyle. Speak with your veterinarian about the appropriate plan for your pet.
A lifetime together
starts here.
Have questions about your new puppy? Our veterinary team can help you understand their individual care needs.