Pocket VetPuppy care guide (0–12 months)
The first year shapes your dog for life. Here's what matters most month by month — health, feeding, socialisation, and when something needs a vet.
Health basics
- ✓Vaccine series every 3–4 weeks until ~16 weeks (see our puppy vaccine schedule)
- ✓Deworming on your vet's schedule; start flea/tick + heartworm prevention
- ✓First vet visit within days of bringing them home
- ✓Plan spay/neuter timing with your vet
Feeding
- ✓Feed a complete puppy (growth) food — large breeds need large-breed puppy formula
- ✓Several small meals a day, reducing frequency as they grow
- ✓Keep lean — fat puppies aren't healthy puppies
- ✓Fresh water always available
Socialisation & training
- ✓Prime socialisation window is ~3–14 weeks — expose gently to people, sounds, surfaces
- ✓Puppy classes that require vaccines are great once partially vaccinated
- ✓Start crate training and short positive sessions early
- ✓Avoid dog-heavy public areas until the vaccine series is complete
Noticed something off with your dog?
Describe the symptoms and get an instant, calm triage — home care, vet soon, or emergency.
Check my dog nowSigns that need a vet
- ●Repeated vomiting or diarrhea (puppies dehydrate fast) — vet promptly
- ●Not eating, very low energy, or a swollen belly
- ●Coughing, labored breathing
- ●Limping that doesn't quickly resolve
Frequently asked
When can my puppy meet other dogs?
Meet known, fully-vaccinated dogs in safe spaces early for socialisation. Avoid parks and high-traffic areas until ~1–2 weeks after the final puppy vaccine (around 16 weeks).
How often should a puppy eat?
Young puppies typically eat 3–4 times a day, dropping to twice daily as they approach adulthood. Follow the food's growth guidelines and your vet's advice for your breed.
Other life stages
Pocket Vet editorial team
Written and maintained by the Pocket Vet editorial team using authoritative veterinary sources. Reviewed June 10, 2026. This guide is informational only and not a substitute for professional veterinary care — see our editorial & safety policy. When in doubt, contact your vet; in a true emergency, go to an emergency clinic immediately.
Sources