The most important vaccinations in the first year
Even in the first weeks of life, your puppy needs the protection of vaccinations. They protect him from dangerous diseases such as distemper, parvovirus, hepatitis, and rabies.
The vaccination schedule usually starts like this:
[TRANSLATION ERROR] Impfplan für Welpen: Wann welche Impfung ansteht – und warum sie so wichtig für die Gesundheit deines kleinen Lieblings ist.
Important: Some vaccinations are mandatory (e.g., rabies), while others depend on where you live and what you plan to do with your dog (e.g., traveling, frequent contact with other dogs). It's best to discuss this directly with your veterinarian.
Deworming – the right rhythm
Worms (e.g., →roundworms, hookworms, →tapeworms) can be quite a nuisance for your puppy – that's why regular deworming is so important! Protection should start as soon as he moves into his new home, and you should continue regular deworming.
In the first 6 weeks of life:
- Puppies and the mother should be dewormed 3 times at 14-day intervals.
From the 7th week to the 6th month:
- Weaned animals should be dewormed every 4 to 6 weeks.
From 6 months to 1 year:
- Deworming at 9 and 12 months of age.
Whether roundworms, hookworms, or tapeworms: Most preparations cover all common types of worms. It is important that you give your puppy the medication regularly – even if you don't see anything.
If you are unsure, it's best to ask your veterinarian for advice. They will help you find the right medication and the best schedule for your little adventurer.
Chipping and neutering – important decisions
In addition to vaccinations and deworming, there are a few other topics that are important for the protection of your puppy.
From the 12th week, it's time to think about →chipping: A small chip under the skin stores an individual number. This allows your dog to be clearly identified if he gets lost.
From the 6th month, many also consider →neutering or →sterilization. The right timing depends on many factors: breed, size, and character of your dog play a role. For large breeds, many veterinarians recommend waiting until after the first year to avoid disrupting healthy development. For females, it is often recommended to neuter between the first and second heat to slightly reduce the risk of breast cancer (mammary carcinoma). Therefore, it is worth discussing the topic individually with your veterinarian.
They will help you find the right time – always with an eye on your pet's health and well-being.
[TRANSLATION ERROR] Gesund groß werden: Tierärzt*innen helfen dir, wichtige Entscheidungen für deinen Welpen richtig zu treffen.
Starting life healthy
You now have everything important in view: vaccinations, deworming, chipping, and the question of neutering. For your puppy to grow up healthy and happy, regular →checks with your veterinarian are also essential. Especially in the first year, it's worth keeping an eye on weight, coat, and overall development.
The right food also plays a significant role: Puppy food provides everything your little rascal needs to grow – and ensures that he feels great. This also includes paying attention to good hygiene: clean bowls, fresh water, and a comfortable sleeping place make a big difference.
This is how you ensure that your puppy starts his adventure in life strong and healthy – and that you both have many wonderful years together!
