Puppy Health

Let's talk about your puppy's health

From puppy vaccinations to monthly flea treatments to puppy dental care, puppy grooming and more, this chapter of our puppy guide will tell you everything you need to know for the long-term health of your beautiful pooch.

Puppy vaccination schedule

To ensure your puppy gets the best protection against preventable diseases and illnesses, it’s important to keep their vaccinations up to date. As a puppy, they will have to get a number of shots in the first few months of their life.

Here's the puppy vaccination schedule in Australia:

Puppy’s ageType of vaccination6–8 weeksFirst puppy vaccine10–12 weeksSecond puppy vaccine16–18 weeksThird puppy vaccine1+ (every 12 months)Booster shot

Other things you need to know about puppy vaccinations

• Most breeders and rescue organisations only let you take home a puppy at around 8–10 weeks old, so by this time your pooch will likely have had their first (and maybe even second) puppy vaccination.

• Your puppy may be worried about an unfamiliar environment like the vet, so keep them calm and give them lots of love, pats or treats if necessary.

• Vaccinations take around two weeks to take full effect – so your puppy shouldn’t be out and about in public places such as the dog park. Chat to your vet about any special care or precautions you should take during this time.

Flea, worm and tick treatment for puppies

While booster vaccinations only need to be on your mind once a year – and any good vet will send an annual reminder message to you –flea, worm and tick treatments for puppies are more commonly a monthly task. 

Always read the instructions and make sure your puppy weighs the right amount for the treatment you are giving and if you have any questions, ask your local vet for flea, tick and worming product recommendations and advice.