

What to Expect at Your Dog’s Routine Wellness Exams

Puppies Up to 1 Year: Visits as Needed
Puppy Vaccination Schedule
Canine vaccines are split into core vaccines and non-core vaccines. Veterinarians typically give core vaccines to every dog, while a dog’s lifestyle and health determines if they receive non-core vaccines. Here’s what a typical puppy vaccine schedule looks like, but you should ask your veterinarian which vaccines they recommend for your puppy.1
Core vaccinations
- 6-8 Weeks: DAPP (distemper, adenovirus, parainfluenza, parvovirus)
- 10-12 Weeks: DAPP
- 14-16 Weeks: DAPP, Rabies (typically given at 16 weeks or later, may be given earlier if required by law)
Non-core vaccinations
- 6-8 Weeks: Bordetella, parainfluenza (often included in DAP combo vaccine)
- 10-12 Weeks: Leptospirosis, Lyme
- 14-16 Weeks: Leptospirosis, Lyme

Adult Dogs: Yearly Checkup
Adult dogs are 1-7 years old, and vets typically recommend an annual wellness exam. Here are some of the tests and exams you can expect:
- Routine checkups
- Vaccine boosters
- Heartworm test
- Dental exams
- Breed-specific tests or exams
- Other tests as needed based on your dog’s health history

Senior Dogs: Twice-a-Year Checkups
Emergency Vet Visits
Even with regular care, emergencies can occur. That’s why it’s important to know when your dog requires emergency care. Though not all inclusive, here are some of the signs that indicate an emergency veterinary visit is warranted:
If you see any of the following signs, take your dog to the emergency vet right away:
- Trouble breathing
- Lack of appetite and/or not drinking
- Hind leg weakness
- Collapse or seizures
- Sudden change in bowel movements or urination
- Bloating
- Limping
- Excessive panting
- Excessive whining
Reference
- 1. 2022 AAHA Canine Vaccination Guidelines. American Animal Hospital Association. Accessed Jan 24, 2023. https://www.aaha.org/aaha-guidelines/2022-aaha-canine-vaccination-guidelines/home/
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