Puppy Information

Puppy Vaccination Schedule

Protecting your puppy against preventable diseases is one of the most important parts of early care. Brentwood Bay Veterinary Clinic recommends three sets of puppy vaccines, timed to provide the best immune protection. First vaccine at 8 weeks of age, second vaccine at 12 weeks, and the third vaccine at 16 weeks. These visits also give your veterinarian a chance to perform a thorough physical exam and answer any questions you have about your puppy’s development. Keeping to this schedule is important because a puppy’s immune system is still maturing, and the antibodies they received from their mother begin to fade around this time.

Feeding Your Puppy: What and How Often

Proper nutrition is the foundation of growth. For young puppies, offer meals of a high-quality puppy food three to four times a day. This frequent schedule helps maintain steady blood sugar and supports rapid growth. After about six months of age, you can reduce to twice-daily feedings. At roughly one year old, your puppy can transition to a high-quality adult food. Always provide fresh, clean water and avoid leaving food out all day, as this can lead to overeating. Your veterinarian can help you choose the best diet for your puppy’s breed, size, and activity level. If you have questions about portion sizes, our team is happy to offer guidance tailored to your puppy.

Spaying and Neutering: Timing Recommendations

Deciding when to spay or neuter your puppy is a common question for new owners. The recommended timing differs between males and females. Female dogs should be spayed at 6 months of age, before their first heat cycle. Male dogs should be neutered between 15 and 18 months of age. Spaying before the first heat greatly reduces the risk of mammary tumours and eliminates the possibility of uterine infections. For males, waiting until they are fully grown allows proper bone and joint development, which are particularly important for larger breeds. Your veterinarian will discuss the best plan for your individual puppy during a wellness visit.

Flea and Parasite Control

Fleas are active year-round on Vancouver Island, so preventive care is needed in every season. The quietest months for fleas are December and January, while October and November are often the worst. Monthly flea prevention should be given throughout the year to keep your pet comfortable and prevent infestations in your home. Worming is another essential part of parasite control. We recommend worming puppies once a month for the first six months of life. After that, adult dogs should be wormed once or twice a year. Intestinal parasites are common in puppies and can sometimes be passed to humans, so regular treatment protects your whole family.

Housetraining and Socialization Tips

Housetraining takes patience and consistency. We advise using positive reinforcement such as treats and praise when your puppy goes in the right spot. Never hit or yell at your puppy for accidents. A simple rule to remember: a puppy can typically hold its waste for approximately the same number of hours as its age in months. So a two-month-old puppy needs a bathroom break every two hours. Socialization is equally critical during puppyhood. Expose your puppy to new people, pets, places, and experiences in a positive, controlled way. Puppy classes are an excellent setting for this, as early socialization helps prevent fear and behaviour problems later in life.

What to Expect at Your Puppy’s First Vet Visit

Your puppy’s first visit to Brentwood Bay Veterinary Clinic typically includes a full physical examination, a discussion of feeding and care, and the first round of vaccinations. The veterinarian will also talk about parasite prevention, dental care, and future procedures such as spaying or neutering. Bring any records you have from the breeder or shelter, and prepare a list of questions. Our veterinarians take the time to explain everything clearly, so you feel confident in caring for your new family member.