New Puppy Checklist: Everything you Need for the First Few Weeks

Your puppy's first year is packed with appointments. Here's what to book and when:

• Microchip and council registration: most states require microchipping by law, before the puppy is sold or given away. Council registration is separate and doesn't happen automatically. when your pup is microchipped. Our guide to council registration for dogs in Australia covers the rules state by state
• Vaccinations: three rounds, usually at 6 to 8 weeks, 12 weeks, and 16 weeks. Avoid dog parks and beaches until two weeks after the final shot. See our puppy vaccination guide for the full schedule
• Intestinal worming: every 2 weeks until 12 weeks of age, then monthly. Tapeworm cover at least every 3 months (look for praziquantel). Our guide on how often you should worm your dog breaks down the protocol
• Heartworm prevention: start by 12 weeks, then a yearly injection or monthly tablet for life. For a vet comparison of options, read the best heartworm treatment for dogs
• Flea and tick: start from 6 to 9 weeks depending on the product. Combination products like Nexgard Spectra or Simparica Trio cover most bases - our flea, tick and worming guide for dogs compares the leading products
• Desexing: usually around 6 months, though large breeds over 20kg may benefit from waiting until 12 months. Our guide to desexing your pet walks through the timing trade-offs
• Pet insurance: most worthwhile when taken out before any illness or injury. Pre-existing conditions are almost always excluded for life, so the earlier the better. See our take on why you should get pet insurance for your dog