Bringing home a new puppy is an exciting experience, but it comes with important responsibilities. This guide provides essential tips and checklists to help you care for your puppy properly — especially during the crucial first 60 days.
Puppy Care Tips
- Safe Sleeping Area: Create a warm, quiet space for your puppy to rest without disturbance.
- Regular Routine: Puppies thrive on structure. Establish feeding, sleeping, and toilet routines early.
- Socialisation: Expose your puppy to other pets, people, and sounds in a calm, gradual way.
- Chew Toys: Provide chew toys to prevent damage to furniture and assist with teething.
- Puppy-Proof Home: Remove hazards such as electrical cords, toxic plants, and small objects.
First 60 Days Checklist
- ✔️ Schedule first vet visit within the first week
- ✔️ Deworm every 2 weeks until 12 weeks of age
- ✔️ First vaccine at 6–8 weeks (core vaccinations)
- ✔️ Socialise with other vaccinated puppies
- ✔️ Begin toilet training using a consistent spot
- ✔️ Use a lightweight collar and ID tag
- ✔️ Start gentle leash walking after 8 weeks
Note: Puppies should only go outside in public areas once vaccinated against major diseases.
Feeding Schedule
Feeding your puppy a balanced diet at the right intervals is vital for healthy development.
| Age | Meals per Day | Food Type |
|---|---|---|
| 6–12 weeks | 4 meals | High-quality puppy food (moistened if needed) |
| 3–6 months | 3 meals | Puppy kibble or raw diet (consult your vet) |
| 6–12 months | 2 meals | Continue puppy formula or transition to adult at 12 months |
Always provide fresh, clean water and avoid human food or table scraps.
Training Basics
- Name Training: Teach the puppy to respond to their name with rewards.
- Potty Training: Take your puppy out after naps, meals, and play sessions.
- Positive Reinforcement: Use treats, toys, and praise to encourage good behaviour.
- No Punishment: Avoid shouting or physical discipline — redirect instead.
- Simple Commands: Start with “sit,” “stay,” “come,” and “leave it.”
Short, fun training sessions (5–10 minutes) daily are more effective than long ones.
Vet Visits and Vaccinations
Your vet will guide your puppy’s health plan. Here’s a general schedule followed in South Africa:
| Age | Vaccination |
|---|---|
| 6–8 weeks | 1st Vaccination (Parvo, Distemper, Hepatitis) |
| 10–12 weeks | 2nd Vaccination |
| 14–16 weeks | 3rd Vaccination + Rabies |
| 6–12 months | Booster + Rabies booster |
Deworming: Every 2 weeks until 12 weeks, then monthly until 6 months old.
Keep all vet records safe and updated. Microchipping is highly recommended.
Need More Help?
Visit our Verified Breeders Directory or contact your local vet for breed-specific puppy care guidance.