New Dog Checklist: Health Guide for First-Time Dog Owners
Bringing home a new puppy or rescue dog is an exciting experience but it also comes with big responsibilities. That's why I prepared a New Dog Checklist, which covers all the basics of owning a dog and is meant to help out first time dog owners. One of the most important areas to get right from day one is your dog’s health and safety. Whether you're buying a puppy or giving a second chance to a rescue dog, those tips are applicable toyou.
Health Checklist with detailed explanations to help you navigate these essential first steps:
1. Find a Veterinarian
Your veterinarian will become a crucial part of your dog’s life when it comes to health. Think of them as your dog's primary care doctor, someone who will provide regular checkups, preventative care, vaccinations, and guidance through health concerns and eventual emergencies (that I hope you'll never experience 🙏🏻).
If you haven’t already chosen a vet, ask friends or local pet owners for recommendations. You can also check online reviews for clinics in your area. Look for someone who is experienced, communicative, and has good rapport with both pets and humans.
While choosing the vet clinic it is important to consider its location and distance from your home, as well as opening hours and services available at the clinic. Some clinics have more equipment and specialists in certain areas of veterinary care.
Emergency veterinary care is also something that you need to consider upfront. Does your chosen clinic offer emergency care? If not, look up emergency vet services in your area and keep list of phone numbers and addresses in case you need it. Looking for emergency vet while you need help only adds to the stressful situation.
2. Schedule a Vet Visit Within the First Week
As soon as your dog settles in, book their first visit - ideally within the first week. This initial appointment allows the vet to do a full physical exam, assess overall health, and establish a medical record. For puppies, this is when the vet may discuss vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and nutrition. For rescue dogs, the vet can identify any overlooked conditions or discuss behavioral or age-related needs.
Why it matters: Early detection of issues like infections, dental problems, or parasites can prevent complications down the line.
In some countries (e.g. The Netherlands) you will register your pet in official database during this first visit. You should also ask about microchip and if it's possible to register your dog's chip during this visit.
Some shelters microchip animals in their care but you have to make sure that chip number is assigned to you as an owner in online database. It's also an opportunity to check if your pet:
- has a microchip,
- if it's readable,
- if it's registered correctly.
3. Vaccination Schedule
Vaccines protect your dog from dangerous and sometimes fatal diseases such as parvovirus, distemper, and rabies. Puppies typically start their core vaccines at 6–8 weeks old, followed by boosters every few weeks until about 16 weeks. Rescue dogs may have incomplete vaccination histories, so it’s crucial to check with the shelter or vet and catch up on any missed shots.
Ask your vet for a vaccine schedule based on your dog’s age, health status and local regulations. Some countries require rabies vaccination every year, other require it every 3 years.
If you plan to cross border of your country with your pet, you will also need a passport with all the vaccines documented in it.
4. Flea, Tick, and Worm Prevention
Parasite control is not just about comfort: it's a health necessity. Fleas and ticks can transmit diseases like Lyme disease and cause allergic reactions or skin infections. Worms, including roundworms and heartworms, can seriously affect your dog’s internal organs. Fortunately, there are many preventative options available, including monthly oral tablets, topical treatments, and collars.
Talk to your vet about which products are best for your dog based on their age, size, and environment. Prevention is far more effective and affordable than treatment after infestation.
5. Pet Insurance (Optional but Recommended)
Veterinary care can be expensive, especially if your dog gets sick or injured unexpectedly. Pet insurance offers peace of mind by covering a portion of your medical costs, from routine care to emergency surgery. Plans vary widely in coverage and price, so take time to research options that fit your budget and needs. Even a basic policy can help offset the cost of unexpected vet visits and major procedures.
Some insurance companies offer additional pet insurance with your home insurance. This add-on can be cheaper than stand-alone pet insurance. Look it up or ask your insurance agent if it's possible to add it to your existing policy.
By being proactive and informed, you’re setting your new furry friend up for success. Check out other essential topics in our guide, such as how to dog proof your home and avoid common hazards.