Last Updated: 13/07/2025
Author: Dr Belinda Stancombe BVSc (Hons)
Reading Time: 7 minutes - short read
Congratulations, you have survived the first year of Paw-renthood and your puppy is all grown up! Now is a great time to reflect on the last year and celebrate all the wonderful achievements that you and your pet have had. While you have many wonderful memories to cherish, there have no doubt been some stressful moments that you would rather forget...toilet training, barking, digging, crying, jumping....the list goes on!
The important thing to remember is that you did it, and if you have put in the hard work in the first year then things tend to get a lot easier from here! Now is a great time to celebrate and cherish the wonderful and occasionally stressful memories from the past year.
Now that your pup is officially a doggo, out Vet Squad have put together this graduation guide on everything you need to know to make the transition from puppy to adulthood.
Puppy to Dog Graduation Guide
Vaccinations
Now that your pet is over 12 months of age they will be coming up to being due for their annual vaccinations. Dogs in Australia are routinely vaccinated yearly against Canine Parvovirus, Canine Adenovirus (Infectious Hepatitis), Distemper and Kennel Cough (Canine Parainfluenza II +/- Bordatella bronchisepta). Additional vaccinations such as for Leptospirosis may be recommended in certain areas so consult with your local veterinarian for recommendations specific to your dog's needs.
If your dog has previously received a proheart injection to protect against heartworm, they will also be due for another booster at the same time as their vaccination.
Tick, Flea, Heartworm and Intestinal Worming
It is important to continue with a regular preventative routine to protect your dog against nasty parasites. There are many different preventative products available which can make choosing the most appropriate one very difficult for pet owners. Generally, vets recommend protecting your dog against ticks, fleas, heartworm and intestinal worms, though this can vary depending on which region of Australia you live. Check with your local veterinarian to ensure that your pet is protected against all the relevant parasites.
Looking for more information? Read this helpful guide: Guide To Fleas, Ticks and Worms
Adult Diets
Once your puppy has reached their full growth, you will need to start feeding a diet labelled for 'adults'. Pets in the adult phase of life are typically fully grown, but not yet middle aged. Apart from dental disease and obesity, this age is typically considered a healthy period in a dogs life.
Typically, dogs reach their full growth around the following ages and are ready to start on an adult diet:
| Dog | Adult Age |
|---|---|
| Small Breed Dogs | 7-12 months |
| Medium Breed Dogs | 10-12 months |
| Large Breed Dogs | 15-18 months |
| Giant Breed Dogs | 18-24 months |
Healthy adult diets designed for this phase in life are typically comprised of less calories, protein, calcium, phosphorus, and fat than their previously fed puppy counterpart. Remember to transition your dog slowly to reduce the likelihood of tummy upsets.
Hopefully, these years will go by without too much need for a major diet change! You might like to feed a dental food for teeth maintenance or a diet to support the skin and coat or for a sensitive tummy.
Brands such as Royal Canin and Advance provide a range of breed specific diets to focus on your pet's exact needs. Some popular breed diets include Golden Retriever , Pug, Small Oodles and Medium Terriers.
Still not sure what to choose? Read this helpful guide: Premium Pet Food: Is It Worth It?
Tough Toys
Now that your dog has all their adult teeth, it is ok to start giving harder more durable toys that are suitable for adult dogs.
Interactive toys are a great way to keep your pet busy and distracted if you're away from home. There are plenty of interactive toys which dispense treats or encourage your pet to work for their food. You can even make your own treat-dispensing toy by cutting small holes into an empty drink bottle and filling with kibble.
Durable rubber chew toys satisfy your dog's natural chewing urges while keeping them occupied. Just add KONG Easy Treat Paste or Mimi and Munch Pooch Peanut Butter and dogs can spend hours trying to clean up the last morsel.
Lickimats are designed to keep your pet stimulated and entertained, reducing boredom and anxiety as well as slowing those that eat too quickly. The flexible mat design and raised grooves allow food to be spread or sprinkled on the surface and encourage licking to retrieve the tasty treat, all while releasing relaxing endorphins. Try loading the lickimat with pastes such as KONG Easy Treat Paste or even some natural yoghurt.
Long Lasting Treats
With tough adult teeth and generally a less sensitive tummy, their is a wide range of treats now that your dog can eat and enjoy!
Long lasting treats such as Goat Horn, Cow Hooves, and Ear Chews are great to keep your dog occupied when they're alone. Dental treats such as Greenies, Whimzees and Oravet are also long lasting while helping keep your pets teeth clean.
If you struggle to keep up with providing your pet with new fun toys and delicious treats, you might want to consider a Curious Box. Specially designed by our vets with your dog in mind, The Curious Box contains a selection of premium quality enrichment toys and treats, to keep your pet mentally and physically stimulated. Excellent value for money, The Curious Box is the perfect gift for birthdays, Christmas or just to spoil your furry family member.
Why not keep the fun coming with a Curious Dog Box Subscription? Conveniently delivered straight to your door and with a new theme every 6 weeks, your pet will receive a regular and delightful surprise. Simply select Auto Delivery when you place your order and choose the frequency that suits you and your pet. Save time and money with quality products your dog will love! Choose from The Little Dog Box, The Big Dog Box or The Chewer Box.
Walking Accessories
The first year of your pups life involves a lot of growth! Many pet parents struggle to find collars and harnesses that can be adjusted and fit their pet for longer then a few months.
Now that your dog is all grown up, you can invest in some good quality walking equipment to specifically suit your pet and their walking style.
If your dog pulls on the lead when walked, then you may want to opt for an anti-pull harness. The Halti Headcollar contains a padded nose strap which works by gently directing the head, steering your dog into the desired position. Likewise, anti-pull harnesses like the Rogz Stop Pull Harness redirect your dog's pulling and don't require attachment to the face.
Proper training is vital in order to stop your dog pulling on the lead, and it usually requires a great deal of persistence, patience, and mental fortitude! For tips on training, see our article Training Your Puppy to Walk on a Lead
Bathing and Grooming
We all know that dogs have a habit of getting dirty and smelly from time to time. As a general rule, use a dog specific shampoo and conditioner and aim to bath your dog about once every 2 weeks. Bathing them too frequently may dry out their skin which can cause itching or flaking.
If you have a dog with sensitive skin or is prone to allergies, make sure that you use a shampoo and conditioner specially made for sensitive skin which will help to protect their skin and ensure their coat remains smooth and shiny. For quick clean ups in between washes you can also use pet cleansing wipes and coat refreshing sprays.
Medium and long haired dog breeds need to be brushed daily to prevent knots and matts from forming in the coat. These breeds will also need to be groomed regularly to keep things neat and tidy. To groom your dog at home ensure that you invest in a good quality brush, clipper set and nail clippers.
Vitamins and Supplements
Natural vitamins and supplements are a great addition to any adult dog, whether you are wanting to provide the added boost of a multivitamin or provide additional assistance such as skin support, stress and anxiety or joint support. Natural supplements along with a complete and balanced diet, ensure optimal health and well- being for your adult dog.
Further Reading
Want to know more? Check out our Discover Page for more tips on keeping your pets happy and healthy.
