Getting a new puppy is an exciting time. While we hope to only see your pets annually for their vaccinations and health checks, sometimes the unexpected can happen and we also see them when they are unwell. Poorly pets can understandably be more stressed and nervous than usual – and then a vet comes along, which can be worrying for them. If vet visits and handling are introduced properly from a young age, it can make these situations easier for pets to cope with in the long run.

A key thing to practise at home is getting your puppy used to being handled all over, including touching paws, looking between the toes, and checking teeth and ears. Gentle handling, taking it slowly, and using positive reinforcement (lots of treats and praise!) are key. This helps puppies become accustomed to the type of handling they may experience during a check-up.

We usually recommend bringing puppies in monthly until approximately 6 months of age for a weigh-and-worm appointment, where they meet with a nurse, have some treats, get weighed, and have a positive and fun experience at the vets. This can be great for helping them feel happy and confident in the practice. These short, positive visits help puppies become familiar with the smells, sounds, and people at the clinic.

Owners should also help puppies become comfortable with gentle restraint. Vets sometimes need to hold a dog still during examinations, vaccinations, or nail trimming. Practising brief periods of calm restraint at home while offering treats can prepare the puppy for these situations. The goal is to teach the puppy that being handled does not need to be frightening. The kennel cough vaccine is given intranasally (i.e. a few drops of liquid into the nose), so getting your puppy used to having its nose gently held can help prepare them for this if it is required.

It is important for owners to remain calm and positive during vet visits. Dogs are very sensitive to human emotions and may become anxious if they sense stress or nervousness from their owner. Speaking in a calm voice, offering reassurance, and rewarding relaxed behaviour can help puppies feel more secure.

Other factors to consider include getting your puppy used to being in a crate for short periods. This needs to be introduced slowly, and again positive reinforcement and positive associations need to be created. Whether or not you decide to use one long-term, if your dog is ever hospitalised or needs crate rest due to injury, having this foundation can make it less stressful for them.

Finally, it is never a bad idea to muzzle train our dogs. While we hope we will never need one, if a dog is seriously injured, they can panic and react completely out of character. A muzzle can help veterinary staff provide appropriate medical treatment quickly. If introduced in a positive manner, this can again help reduce stress.

By taking the time to introduce handling, gentle restraint, crates, and vet visits in a calm and positive way, you are helping to build your puppy’s confidence for the future. These small steps can make a huge difference in reducing stress and anxiety during veterinary visits and medical treatment later in life. Creating positive experiences early on helps your puppy learn that the veterinary practice is a safe and rewarding place, setting them up for happier and more relaxed visits for years to come.