Bringing home a new puppy is exciting, but the first year involves several important vet visits to keep your puppy protected and on track. Here’s a general timeline of what to expect.
6-8 Weeks
Your puppy’s first vet visit typically includes a full physical exam, the start of the core vaccine series, and a discussion about deworming and parasite prevention.
9-16 Weeks
Follow-up vaccines are given every 3-4 weeks during this window to build full protection against diseases like parvovirus and distemper. This is also a good time to discuss spay/neuter timing and microchipping.
16 Weeks and Beyond
Your puppy should receive a rabies vaccine (required by law in Texas) and complete their core vaccine series. Many puppies are also ready to start structured exercise routines around this time, depending on breed and size.
6 Months and Up
Spay or neuter surgery is commonly performed around this age, though timing can vary by breed size. This is also when many puppies transition toward adult feeding schedules.
The American Veterinary Medical Association notes that vaccine schedules can vary based on regional disease risk, so your veterinarian may adjust this timeline for your puppy.
Ready to get started? Learn more about becoming a new client, or call us at (254) 876-2552 to schedule your puppy’s first visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should my puppy get their first vaccines?
Puppies typically begin their vaccine series around 6-8 weeks of age, with follow-up doses every 3-4 weeks until around 16 weeks.
Is the rabies vaccine required for puppies in Texas?
Yes, rabies vaccination is required by Texas law, typically given around 12-16 weeks of age or as recommended by your veterinarian.
When should I schedule my puppy’s spay or neuter surgery?
Timing varies by breed and size, but many puppies are spayed or neutered around 6 months of age. Your veterinarian can recommend the best timing for your specific puppy.
What if I adopted an older puppy with an unknown vaccine history?
Let us know at your first visit. We can run titers or restart an appropriate vaccine series to make sure your puppy is fully protected.
