Before your puppy starts to roam free in the world, exploring dog parks and puppy classes, it is important to make sure you have received all of the appropriate vaccinations from the vet. At 4-5 months, you should be approaching your 3rd (and usually final) round of puppy vaccinations. There are several common vaccinations that all puppies receive, but vaccinations do vary based on living situations and demographics, so heed your vet’s recommendation. The next round of shots will come around the 1-year mark, and then you will continue with annual shots throughout your pup’s life.
The most common vaccines your puppy will receive are:
Distemper, Parvo, Corona, and Rabies. But remember, the vaccinations your puppy receives vary based on your pup, your demographics, and your vet. Always heed your vet’s advice.
Try to make the vet a pleasant experience:
Your visit to the vet at the 4-month mark is probably your first vet experience together. It is easy for your pup to become fearful of the vet’s office which can make these necessary visits very stressful for you both. Try to make this introduction as pleasant as possible for your little baby. Here are some suggestions:
- Take your pup for a long walk before the visit so he is not bursting with energy.
- Bring treats! Most puppies are highly motivated by food, and if you bring some of those treats, your pup loves then he will start associating the vet’s office with the delicious meaty treats.
- Be supportive: Stay by your pup’s side throughout the traumatic experience.
Learn as much as you can:
Before you head to the vet try to think of some questions that you may have about your puppy’s development. Ask about food/diet recommendations, growth projections, breed specific things to consider, and when to get the next round of shots. Your vet is a great resource, so use the time you have wisely.
Bringing a new family addition into the home is extremely exciting! Becoming a new puppy parent comes with a ton of new joys, challenges and responsibilities. PupBox was created to help new puppy parents like yourself, by providing all of the toys, treats, accessories and training information you need, when you need it. CLICK HERE to learn more about PupBox.
And remember, puppyhood is fast and is gone before you know it. Make sure to savor the time when your pup is young, and take lots of pictures along the way!
