Puppy Parent Survival Guide

Day 9: The First Veterinary Visit

Typically scheduled within the first 72 hours after puppy pick-up

Your puppy’s first veterinary visit is more than a routine exam.
It is an early learning experience that can influence how your dog responds to veterinary care throughout their life.

From a veterinary behavior perspective, early experiences help shape emotional responses. Neutral or positive first visits are associated with lower fear and improved cooperation as dogs mature.

What science tells us

Research in veterinary behavioral medicine shows that:

• early stressful veterinary experiences can increase fear-based behaviors later in life

• puppies form emotional associations quickly, even during brief experiences

• calm, low-pressure handling supports long-term tolerance of care
  
  

The purpose of this first visit is familiarity and safety, not perfect behavior.

Today’s priority: Reduce stress and build predictability

Veterinary professionals emphasize preparation and emotional regulation, both for the puppy and the handler.

Evidence-based strategies for Day 9:

• Arrive calm and prepared
  Puppies are highly sensitive to human stress and body language.

• Use positive reinforcement
  Soft treats, gentle praise, and calm voices during handling encourage cooperation.

• Advocate for your puppy
  It is appropriate to ask for slower handling, breaks, or modified positioning if your puppy shows signs of stress.
  
  

What to expect during the visit

It is normal for puppies to:

• hesitate during handling

• vocalize or squirm

• seek reassurance
  
  

These behaviors reflect novelty and immaturity, not poor temperament or training.

After the appointment

Support recovery by:

• keeping the remainder of the day low-stimulation

• returning to familiar routines

• avoiding additional new experiences
  
  

Allowing time for decompression supports emotional regulation and learning.

How to measure success

A successful first veterinary visit may look like:

• your puppy tolerated handling

• stress remained manageable

• your puppy recovered afterward
  
  

Learning does not require perfection.

Professional reassurance

Your puppy does not need to love the veterinarian today.
Neutral, predictable experiences are a solid and appropriate foundation.

You are supporting cooperative care skills that will benefit your dog for a lifetime.

🤍 LMU Goldens
Evidence-based puppy guidance • Ethical breeding support

(Guidance informed by AAHA recommendations and veterinary behavior research.)