Time for a health check
At six months, it is advisable to make a vet's appointment for your puppy so they can provide a thorough health-check. Your vet will want to make sure your puppy is on track with his development and growth, so will check his weight and provide a general health assessment.
Calm puppy
Before you set off to the vet's, put your puppy on a secure collar and lead. And if you're travelling by car, make sure he has a safety harness on. Try to encourage your puppy to go to the toilet before you set off, and take a poop scoop and bag with you just in case.
By now, grooming, training and playing with your puppy will have made him enjoy being handled, but take along some tasty treats to encourage him to behave at the vet's. This will reassure him and help him learn that a trip to the vet can be a positive experience, for hi,m and for you.
What to expect
Your vet will weigh your puppy to make sure he is growing at the correct rate and advise you if any changes to his feeding amounts are required. The vet will look carefully at your puppy's eyes, ears, paws and teeth. By this age your puppy's adult teeth should be coming through. His baby teeth will usually fall out naturally to make room, but if this is not the case your vet will make a recommendation on what needs to be done. They will also check with you what de-worming and flea control regime you have in place, and recommend any future treatments that might be necessary.
Tasty Tips
What should I be feeding?
Your vet will be interested in what food you are feeding your puppy and will advise you on any changes that may be necessary or recommended. He or she may recommend that you switch to a high quality food. This simple procedure is one of the best things you can do for your puppy's long-term health. If you have a male puppy, any territorial habits, including the tendency to want to roam and fight other dogs will be prevented. In female puppies, neutering helps reduce the risk of womb infections and mammary tumors.
Microchipping
Something else that you might consider is microchipping. This tiny, invisible device is easy to fit and will give you the peace of mind that your puppy will be easy to find if he gets lost.
Pet insurance
If you haven't already, now's a good time to consider pet insurance. It can be reassuring to know you're covered for any health problems your puppy might have in the future. Just make sure you read the small print before you buy, and check it's the right policy for you.
Related products
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Chicken Recipe Dog Food
Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Dog Food
Supports energy level & beautiful coat. Helps keep immune system, heart & kidneys healthy
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Perfect Digestion Small Bites Chicken, Whole Oats & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome for dogs age 7+. Delicious food in a small bite size
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small & Mini Savory Stew with Beef & Vegetables Dog Food
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet Small Paws dry dog food
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Large Breed Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Supports controlled bone & joint growth. Promotes healthy brain, eye, muscle & immune system development
Hill's Science Diet Adult Chicken & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Supports lean muscle and beautiful coat for adult dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight & Joint Support Hearty Vegetables and Tuna Stew Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Senior Vitality Small & Mini Chicken & Vegetable Stew Dog Food
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Hill's Science Diet Adult 11+ Small & Mini Chicken, Brown Rice & Barley Recipe Dog Food
For the unique nutritional needs of mature Small & Mini Dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Chicken Meal, Barley & Rice Recipe Dog Food
Supports energy level and beautiful coat in mature dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult 6+ Large Breed No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe dog food
Supports energy & beautiful coat. Helps keep immune system, joints, heart & kidneys healthy
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Small & Mini Savory Stew with Chicken & Vegetables
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet Small & Mini dog food
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Small & Mini Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
For the unique nutritional needs of mature Small & Mini dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult 6+ Large Breed Chicken Meal, Barley & Rice Recipe Dog Food
Supports energy & beautiful coat. Helps keep immune system, joints, heart & kidneys healthy
Hill's Science Diet Perfect Digestion Small Bites Chicken, Brown Rice & Whole Oats Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome. Delicious food in a small bite size
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Salmon, Whole Oats, and Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Small & Mini Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health, tailored for unique needs of Small and Mini puppies
Hill's Science Diet Adult Light Small & Mini Chicken Meal, Barley & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Low calories for less active small & mini dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Chicken, Barley & Whole Oats Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small & Mini Savory Stew with Chicken & Vegetables Dog Food
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet Small & Mini dog food
Related articles
Your Dog in Pain: Recognizing & Relieving
Learn how to recognize the signs & symptoms if your dog is in pain, whether you should give him medication, and if you need to call a veterinarian.
Safe Dog Biscuits to Share with Your Pup
You love your dog, and you want to spoil him with treats all year round without compromising his health. What are the best safe dog biscuits?
Tips for Leaving Your New Dog Home Alone
Check out these helpful tips on how to housebreak your puppy and feel confident in leaving him alone while you're at work.
Managing Your Dog's Farts & Gas Problems
Learn the underlying causes behind excessive dog farting, signs that gas problems may be a larger health concern, and how to help manage these issues.
What Is Collie Eye Anomaly?
Learn more about collie eye anomaly in dogs, including breeds that can be affected (is it just collies?), causes & symptoms, and tips for prevention.
Methods for Stopping Your Puppy's Aggressive Behavior
Learn why your new puppy might show signs of aggression & biting, as well as how you can train to him to stop this behavior.
No Matter What Kind of Trip, This Dog Travel Checklist Can Help.
Whether you're taking your dog on a road trip, camping, or flying with him, use these helpful travel checklists to make sure you pack everything he needs.
Is Hand Sanitizer Bad for Dogs? (& What to Do if They Eat it)
Learn whether hand sanitizer can be toxic for your dog, including potentially harmful ingredients that can be bad, and what to do if they've eaten it.
Dog Carrier Bags: What You Need to Know
Discover helpful tips for choosing the right dog carrier bag or purse for your tiny pup, including safety features to look for & when a dog purse is ideal.
Urinary Issues in Dogs: What You Need to Know
Learn the underlying causes of urinary issues and incontinence in dogs, why he might be peeing in the house, as well what you can do to help.
Should You Allow a Dog to Give You Kisses?
Wondering if dog kisses are safe for you & your family? Learn the facts about how clean your dog's mouth is and when you can enjoy a smooch from your pup.
Tips for Keeping Your Dog's Teeth Clean & Healthy
Discover how common dental disease is in dogs and what you can do to help prevent it happening to your dog.
How Proper Dog Oral Care Leads to Healthy Dog Teeth
Are you paying enough attention to dog oral care? Learn some great ways to keep your dog's teeth & gums healthy, including a guide for brushing his teeth.
Caring for Your Dog: Common Myths & Realities
With all the misinformation available online about dogs, it's time you got the true canine facts. Learn about some common dog myths you may have heard.
Knowing the Life Stages of Your Large Dog
Determine the human year equivalent of your large or giant breed dog as their size plays a much larger role in their aging than smaller dogs.
Chondrodystrophic Dog Breeds: All About Short-Legged Dogs
All About Chondrodystrophic (Short Legged) Dog Breeds
Can Dogs Drink Pool Water?
Learn facts and precautions about dogs and drinking pool water, including what types are most hazardous and what to do if your dog drinks too much.
Cyanosis & Blue Skin in Dogs: Symptoms, Treatment & More
Cyanosis in dogs can be a serious condition, with symptoms like blue skin needing emergency treatment. Learn what to do if your dog shows signs like this.
Why Are My Dog's Eyes Red?
Learn common causes of red eyes in dogs, from normal allergies to more serious health concerns, and treatment options your vet might suggest to help.
Can Dogs Eat Soy?
Learn whether soy is a safe ingredient in dog foods, if there are any health benefits or concerns, as well as if they can have products like soy sauce.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.