Your Puppy's First Year: Vaccinations, Deworming and Milestones

Bringing home a puppy is pure joy — and a little overwhelming. Getting their first year right sets them up for a long, healthy life. Here's a straightforward roadmap, though your vet will tailor the exact timing to your puppy and your area.

Vaccinations

Puppies typically start their core vaccinations from around six weeks, with boosters every few weeks until about sixteen weeks, then a booster at a year. These protect against serious, often fatal diseases like parvovirus and distemper — both of which are still very much around in South Africa. Rabies vaccination is legally required and vital. Until the course is complete, keep your puppy away from unknown dogs and public areas where disease may lurk.

Deworming and parasites

• Puppies are usually dewormed every two weeks until twelve weeks, then monthly to six months, then routinely as an adult.
• Start tick and flea prevention early — ask your vet for a puppy-safe product.

Sterilisation

Spaying or neutering prevents unwanted litters and has real health and behaviour benefits. Your vet will advise the best age for your puppy. With so many pets already needing homes in South Africa, sterilisation is one of the most responsible choices you can make.

The other milestones

• Socialisation: gently expose your puppy to new people, sounds, surfaces and (safely vaccinated) dogs while they're young. It builds a confident, easy-going adult.
• Microchipping: a permanent ID that dramatically improves the odds of a lost pet coming home.
• Basic training: short, positive, reward-based sessions from day one.

Build the vet relationship early

A good relationship with a vet you trust is one of the best gifts you can give your puppy — and you. Those early check-ups are also the perfect time to ask every question on your list.