Every puppy is a little different, and your vet's exact plan may vary — but this is the general shape of the first year that most healthy puppies follow, based on current AAHA vaccination guidelines.

Weeks 6–8: The First Visit

  • First core vaccine dose (distemper, adenovirus, parainfluenza, parvovirus — often called DHPP or DAPP)
  • First deworming treatment
  • Puppy-formula food begins, if not already weaned onto it
  • Parasite prevention (heartworm, flea, tick) can typically start around 8 weeks

Weeks 8–12: Socialization Window Opens

  • Second core vaccine dose (3–4 weeks after the first)
  • Begin controlled socialization — puppy classes, safe introductions to new people and vaccinated dogs. This window matters developmentally even before vaccines are complete; ask your vet what's safe in the meantime.
  • Enroll in pet insurance now — this is the ideal window, before any condition has a chance to become "pre-existing."

Weeks 12–16: Rabies and the Final Core Dose

  • Rabies vaccine (required by law in nearly every state, given between 12–16 weeks)
  • Third and final core vaccine dose, given no earlier than 16 weeks — this last dose is what builds lasting immunity
  • Leptospirosis vaccine if recommended for your area — it moved onto AAHA's core list in the 2024 update

Months 4–6: Adult Teeth and the Spay/Neuter Conversation

  • Adult teeth come in, replacing puppy teeth — some minor chewing discomfort is normal
  • Talk to your vet about spay/neuter timing — this varies meaningfully by breed and size, with some large breeds benefiting from a delayed timeline for joint development
  • Continue full socialization now that the core vaccine series is complete

Months 6–12: Growth Monitoring and the Adult Food Switch

  • Small and medium breeds typically transition to adult food around 12 months; large and giant breeds often stay on puppy or large-breed formula longer, sometimes to 18–24 months, to support slower joint development
  • One-year vaccine boosters for core vaccines
  • First "adult" wellness exam — a good moment to reassess insurance coverage now that your dog's health history is established

Every Puppy's Timeline Shifts a Little

Breed, size, health status, and regional disease risk all affect the exact schedule. This is a general map, not a substitute for your vet's specific plan — always confirm timing with them directly.

Get the Two Things Right Early

Insurance enrolled before symptoms appear, and food that matches your puppy's actual growth stage — both matter more in year one than any other year.

Insurance → Fresh Food →