your puppy’s first year: health, training, and care made simple

0–3 months: building a foundation of trust

Your new puppy is learning about the world and figuring out how to feel safe in it. This early stage is all about creating positive routines and introducing new experiences slowly.

What to expect:

The first few months with a puppy are equal parts heart-melting and a little chaotic — in the best way. You’ll be learning each other’s rhythms while navigating middle-of-the-night whimpers, surprise potty puddles, and the occasional chewed-up shoe (or two).

Your puppy will explore the world nose-first and mouth-open, testing textures, sounds, and everything within paw’s reach. Gentle nipping and chewing are normal signs of discovery. Between bursts of zoomies and snuggly naps, they’ll start to recognize their name, respond to simple cues like “sit” and “come,” and look to you for reassurance.

Crate and potty training begin here too, along with the joyful realization that every little milestone (like their first dry night!) means your puppy is growing right before your eyes. It’s a stage filled with small but meaningful milestones that set the foundation for a confident, well-adjusted pup.

Key vet care checklist:

• Complete first comprehensive exam
• Start core vaccine series
• Start deworming
• Start flea, tick, and heartworm prevention
• Discuss nutrition to support healthy growth

Quick reads to help you and your puppy thrive together:

4–6 months: teething, training, and growth

Your puppy’s personality is coming to life! With new energy and curiosity, they’re learning how to navigate boundaries and interact with their environment, which often means a lot of chewing and testing limits.

What to expect:

This stage is when your puppy really starts coming into their own. Baby teeth start falling out and teething begins, so expect a flurry of chewing on anything within paw’s reach (table legs, sneakers, maybe even your favorite hoodie). Their energy surges right alongside their growth spurts, and their curiosity knows no bounds. They want to sniff, taste, and explore the world in every direction.

It’s the perfect time to double down on training and socialization, helping them learn what’s OK to chew, how to greet new friends politely, and how to handle all the exciting sights and sounds of puppyhood with confidence.

Key vet care checklist:

• Finish core vaccine series
• Discuss the best timing for a spay or neuter procedure
• Introduce regular dental care routine

Ready to level up your puppy know-how?

7–9 months: big energy and independence

Welcome to puppy adolescence, which is full of independence, energy, and the occasional stubborn streak. It’s common for your dog to “forget” familiar commands or develop new behaviors as they mature emotionally and physically.

What to expect:

Think of this stage as the canine version of middle school — full of attitude, curiosity, and boundless energy. Your puppy might test boundaries, ignore cues they definitely know, or suddenly decide the couch cushions are fair game to chew again. You may notice zoomies at odd hours, bursts of excitement during walks, and a few dramatic sighs when it’s time to come inside.

This phase can also bring a second round of chewing, more vocal “opinions,” and clingier moments as they navigate their newfound independence. Consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement go a long way in helping your growing pup channel all that big energy into good habits.

Key vet care checklist:

• Discuss any concerning behavioral changes
• Learn more about reproductive changes expected in female and male dogs
• Ensure your puppy stays current on flea, tick, and heartworm prevention

Your pup is changing fast, and here’s how to keep up:

10–12+ months: from puppy to young adult

Your puppy is starting to look and act like an adult dog. With more predictable routines and steadier energy levels, this stage is about reinforcing lifelong habits for health, behavior, and bonding.

What to expect:

Your fluffy ball of energy is starting to mellow out (at least a little). Around this age, you’ll notice them settling into familiar routines: morning walks, mealtimes, and favorite nap spots. They’re likely close to their adult size now, and with that comes steadier energy, better focus, and fewer zoomies out of nowhere. Training sessions may finally start to click, and all that consistency you’ve been working on begins to pay off. This sweet spot of growing up is when your dog still has plenty of playful spirit, but with the confidence and calm of a young adult.

Key vet care checklist:

• Discuss the transition to adult dog food
• Establish a wellness exam schedule
• Maintain preventive care and socialization

Optimum Wellness Plans make ongoing preventive care easy and affordable while helping you keep your dog’s health on track.

Keep the growth going:

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