Welcome to the
Eukanuba Puppy Guide.

Everything you need to give your puppy a great start.

Visiting Your Veterinarian

In addition to providing your new puppy optimum nutrition, scheduling regular visits to the veterinarian is the key to his enduring health and happiness. Here's how to prepare.

Getting Ready

As the "parent" of a new puppy or new adult dog, it's important for you to help. If you have time, introduce your dog to his new veterinarian by scheduling an orientation-only visit. Let the veterinarian's staff pet him and offer him treats. If you project a calm, upbeat attitude, your dog will likely remain calm too. Some experts recommend scheduling these "just dropping in" visits on a regular basis.

The First Appointment

At your dog's first appointment, you'll be asked basic information, and a staff member may weigh your pet. Keeping track of his weight can help identify problems associated with weight loss or gain. Then you'll meet the veterinarian. You'll be asked about your dog's diet and lifestyle. Next you'll get to ask about your dog's care. Then the veterinarian will examine him and may administer his first vaccinations.

The Vaccination Schedule

The information you provided will help the veterinarian determine the kinds of diseases your dog may be exposed to and plan an appropriate vaccination schedule. Schedules vary, but it's important for puppies to get a series of vaccinations to provide optimal protection against infectious diseases like the ones listed below. The series is begun as early as 6 weeks old, with boosters given 3 to 4 weeks apart until puppies are 12 to 16 weeks old.

  • Canine Distemper
  • Adenovirus-2
  • Canine Parainfluenza (Da2P)
  • Canine Parvovirus (CPV)