This Petstock article was reviewed for accuracy by Dr Gloria Ebeyer (DVM, Grad Cert SAECC, MANZCVS [Veterinary Practice]), an Australian-registered veterinarian.
Bringing home a new puppy is equal parts exciting and terrifying.
One minute you’re soaking up the cuddles, and the next you’re Googling ‘is it normal for my puppy to attack my toes?’ at 11 pm.
The best way to get on top of it all (and give yourself some peace of mind) is booking your puppy’s first health check. But what does that actually involve?
Below, we’re breaking it down.
What specifically happens during my puppy’s first vet visit?
If you’re picturing something clinical or intimidating, you’re on the wrong track.
A puppy health check is exactly what it sounds like: a full nose-to-tail assessment by a vet to make sure your new arrival is developing well. Most puppy checks are gentle and thorough, yet over before your pup has had time to get too wriggly.
Your vet will usually:
- Check your puppy’s overall condition: This includes weight, body condition, coat, skin, eyes, ears and teeth. They’re looking for signs your puppy is healthy and hydrated.
- Listen to your pup’s heart and lungs: This is to check for any irregularities in breathing or heart rhythm.
- Examine joints and movement: Puppies grow quickly, so your vet will check how they’re moving and developing – paying special attention to their hips and legs.
- Check for parasites: Fleas, ticks and worms are common in young dogs, so this is an important one to tick off early.
- Review vaccination status: If your puppy has already had vaccinations, your vet will check what they’ve received and when the next ones are due.
From there, the conversation usually opens up. You might talk about feeding, toilet training, teething, zoomies, or anything else on your mind. It’s all part of the process, and no question is too small.
What’s ‘normal’ for a puppy (and what’s not)?
This is the part new puppy owners worry about the most.
The short answer is that there’s a range of ‘normal’, but your vet will help you understand what’s right for your specific puppy.
Generally, they’ll be looking for steady growth, a healthy appetite, bright and alert behaviour and good movement. They may also talk you through the key developmental stages – neonatal (0 to 2 weeks), transitional (2 to 4 weeks), socialisation (3 to 12 weeks), juvenile (3 to 6 months) and adolescence (6 to 18 months) – so you can know what’s coming next.
But if something doesn’t seem quite right, this is where it’s picked up early. That’s exactly what these checks are for.
How do I prepare for my puppy’s health check?
You don’t need to overthink it, but a little prep goes a long way.
To keep the visit as stress-free as possible, here are a few things worth packing:
- Any paperwork from the breeder or shelter
- Vaccination records (if you have them)
- Details of their current food and appetite
- A stool sample – if requested by your vet (it’s weird to bring, otherwise)
If you’ve noticed anything you’re unsure about with your puppy, even if it feels minor, jot it down beforehand. It’s surprisingly easy to forget things once you’re in the room. And trust us: your vet won’t be surprised by a game of 20 questions. Some helpful ones to consider asking are:
- How much should I be feeding my puppy?
- What vaccinations do they need next?
- When should I start parasite prevention?
- Is their behaviour normal for their age?
- When can they start socialising or attending puppy school?
On the day, try to keep things calm and positive. A short outing beforehand can help take the edge off your puppy’s energy – just avoid overdoing it if they’re not fully vaccinated yet.
How much does a puppy health check cost?
Costs can vary depending on the clinic and what’s included, but most standard consultations sit somewhere between $50 and $100+.
If your puppy needs vaccinations, treatments or additional tests, that may add to the total – something your vet will always talk you through first.
That said, there is a helpful option for new puppy owners…
At Petstock Vet, we offer free puppy health checks for puppies under 16 weeks.
It’s our way of helping you start your puppy parenting journey with confidence, giving you access to expert advice from the very beginning.
You’ll get the full experience – a thorough check, time to ask questions and guidance tailored to your puppy – in a setting designed to feel welcoming and supportive (no judgement, we promise).
What do I do after the puppy health check?
After your puppy’s first health check, the world is your oyster.
As they grow, you’ll start thinking about things like:
- Selecting the best puppy food for their phase of development
- Starting puppy school to build confidence and good behaviour (Petstock offers programs from just $99 for 5 weeks)
- Managing the teething and chewing tendencies (good luck!)
And then there’s all the million other things to consider when getting a puppy.
Don’t worry, though. Enjoy this time with your little friend. They’ll be your big friend before you know it.
You got this!
Ready to book your puppy’s first health check? Schedule a free visit with your local Petstock Vet today.
This Petstock article was last reviewed in June 2026. The information in this article is general in nature and is not a substitute for individual veterinary advice. Always consult your vet if you have concerns about your pet’s health.