We’ll look at what to anticipate from your puppy and what they’ll need from you at this exciting stage of their development in this guide to living with a 12 week old puppy. A 12-week puppy schedule and a wealth of care advice are also included.
Your Labrador puppy, who is now 12 weeks old, has most likely been living with you for at least a few weeks. She will be in her stride after any initial nerves have subsided. But her human family may have a lot of concerns about her newly discovered confidence. If you’d like some additional assistance with training, too, you can sign up to receive our Training Tips by email by entering your email address in the box below.
Common questions you may ask this week
By now, some puppies should be sleeping through the night, but some may still wake up during the night to go potty. Even though it may seem like the sleepless nights will never end, they will Maintain a successful toilet training schedule, and your efforts will soon bear fruit.
Health and Care
Your puppy must go to the vet between the ages of 6 and 8 weeks for its initial puppy vaccinations, deworming, and examination. The puppy may have received its first vaccinations, deworming, and visit to the veterinarian from the breeder or adoption organization. Regardless, you should visit your veterinarian shortly after purchasing your new puppy to make sure it is in good health. Bring any documentation provided by the breeder or adoption organization so that your veterinarian can modify or prescribe a vaccination schedule.
Vaccinations for the puppy should be completed by the age of 18 weeks. But until then, you need to prevent exposure to diseases. Avoid letting your puppy interact with unfamiliar animals or walk through areas with lots of other dogs. Your puppy can play with healthy adult dogs and puppies who have received their shots and been dewormed. Verify that you are familiar with the dog’s owner and that you can rely on the animal’s wellbeing.
Soft Hair
The puppies are still covered in soft hair at this age, which thankfully sheds very little. They will require a pH-balanced, extremely delicate shampoo. This is a good time to introduce bathing to the puppy. Be sure to make the experience positive and fun. For cleaning in between baths, you can also use hypoallergenic, alcohol-free dog wipes.
FAQ
Is 12 weeks old still a puppy?
Your puppy will begin to grow quickly between the ages of 12 and 16 weeks, according to Louise Murray, DVM, vice president of the ASPCA Animal Hospital. Their senses and motor abilities have also advanced quickly, so they will be more adept at moving around and inquisitive about their surroundings.
How can I calculate my puppy age?
However, the American Veterinary Medical Association provides the following general rule: The first year of a medium-sized dog’s life is equal to 15 human years. A dog’s second year is roughly equivalent to nine years for a person. After that, a dog would have roughly five years for every human year.
What should a 12 week old puppy be doing?
Your puppy’s primary concerns at 12 weeks of age are still to eat, drink, sleep, go potty, and play. Your puppy should be starting to learn right from wrong and working on housebreaking. He should be playful and curious. Make sure your house is secure and puppy-proof.
Is a 3 month old dog a puppy?
A 3-month-old puppy is capable of learning boundaries, polite behavior, potty training, and fundamental commands. They’re also coming to love you, and this is the time when you and your dog really start to bond.