The Early Years
Exercise, Training & Play
The early years will probably feel like the most intense when it comes to your dog’s physical and cognitive development. Regular engagement will help raise a well-behaved, confident, and happy dog.
A fully vaccinated pup should go for regular walks to explore, meet other dogs (and people), and stretch their paws. A good leash is vital to keep them safe and to support training. You’ll find many different styles available, and our Animal Care Experts can help you find the right one.
As well as the appropriate leash, when it comes to training, treats are your best friend. (See Food & Treats for more info)
Get your dog comfortable in the car, carrier, or crate on short trips first (like vet visits) before longer journeys. This helps ease their stress. They might even learn to love the adventure!
The Early Years
Exercise, Training & Play
The early years will probably feel like the most intense when it comes to your dog’s physical and cognitive development. Regular engagement will help raise a well-behaved, confident, and happy dog.
A fully vaccinated pup should go for regular walks to explore, meet other dogs (and people), and stretch their paws. A good leash is vital to keep them safe and to support training. You’ll find many different styles available, and our Animal Care Experts can help you find the right one.
As well as the appropriate leash, when it comes to training, treats are your best friend. (See Food & Treats for more info)
Get your dog comfortable in the car, carrier, or crate on short trips first (like vet visits) before longer journeys. This helps ease their stress. They might even learn to love the adventure!
Socialization Stages
1
8 WEEKS
At 8 weeks, 1st vet checkup, 1st set of vaccines/deworming 1st vaccine is often given by breeders or rescues prior to adoption
Begin safe socialization People and familiar fully vaccinated pups
Expose (not necessarily interact) to a wide variety of people Include children, people in hats/glasses etc.
Introduce to different household objects and experiences Include car rides, handling, touching feet, mouth etc.
Limit time spent outside Immune system is still underdeveloped
2
8-12 WEEKS
At 12 weeks, 2nd vet checkup, 2nd set of vaccines/deworming
Slowly introduce to new places, people, and experiences After 2nd set of vaccines
Venture out to clean indoor public places Avoid areas frequented by other dogs that may not be vaccinated
Explore the outdoors Avoid places frequented by other dogs that may not be vaccinated
Continue to socialize with vaccinated pups and dogs until 3rd set of vaccines
Enrol in puppy class Ensure clean environment and 2nd set of vaccines given (Bordetella recommended)
3
14-16 WEEKS
At 16 weeks, 3rd vet checkup, 3rd set of vaccines/deworming
Slowly introduce to new places, people, and experiences
Socialize with vaccinated puppies and adult dogs you know and trust Until 3rd set of vaccines
4
16+ WEEKS
Introduce to high traffic dog areas After 3rd set of vaccines (allow 7-10 days for full immunity) explore dog parks and pet stores etc.
Continue with training/socialization classes
Travel allowed Check destination for vaccine requirements
8 WEEKS
At 8 weeks, 1st vet checkup, 1st set of vaccines/deworming 1st vaccine is often given by breeders or rescues prior to adoption
Begin safe socialization People and familiar fully vaccinated pups
Expose (not necessarily interact) to a wide variety of people Include children, people in hats/glasses etc.
Introduce to different household objects and experiences Include car rides, handling, touching feet, mouth etc.
Limit time spent outside Immune system is still underdeveloped
8-12 WEEKS
At 12 weeks, 2nd vet checkup, 2nd set of vaccines/deworming
Slowly introduce to new places, people, and experiences After 2nd set of vaccines
Venture out to clean indoor public places Avoid areas frequented by other dogs that may not be vaccinated
Explore the outdoors Avoid places frequented by other dogs that may not be vaccinated
Continue to socialize with vaccinated pups and dogs until 3rd set of vaccines
Enrol in puppy class Ensure clean environment and 2nd set of vaccines given (Bordetella recommended)
14-16 WEEKS
At 16 weeks, 3rd vet checkup, 3rd set of vaccines/deworming
Slowly introduce to new places, people, and experiences
Socialize with vaccinated puppies and adult dogs you know and trust Until 3rd set of vaccines
16+ WEEKS
Introduce to high traffic dog areas After 3rd set of vaccines (allow 7-10 days for full immunity) explore dog parks and pet stores etc.
Continue with training/socialization classes
Travel allowed Check destination for vaccine requirements
The Adult Years
Bringing home an adult pet is a wonder-fur experience. You’ll most likely have some details about their personality, their favourite foods and games etc., and they may already understand some commands.
By mid-life, adult dogs will probably be house-trained, but it’s always a good idea to go over the basics again (i.e. where to ‘go’ and where not to ‘go’), and rewarding them with a treat when successful.
Exercise, Training & Play
Treating your new dog like a young puppy and going back to basics, can help keep things simple, on track, and build a trusting relationship.
When your dog hits their adult years, exercise is key to keeping them lean and healthy. Walks and park visits give them stimulation and physical activity, as well as fun ‘sniff’ time. ‘Fetch’ with a favourite frisbee keeps exercise interesting.
When it comes to training, remember you can always teach a new dog new tricks! Introduce a rotation of new and novel toys, including interactive puzzles and games, to keep their brains and bodies active—just like doing a crossword or Sudoku, but for dogs. Variety is key!
Freeze pet-safe broth on a lick mat for a tasty, interactive treat that mentally stimulates and nourishes.
The Adult Years
Bringing home an adult pet is a wonder-fur experience. You’ll most likely have some details about their personality, their favourite foods and games etc., and they may already understand some commands.
By mid-life, adult dogs will probably be house-trained, but it’s always a good idea to go over the basics again (i.e. where to ‘go’ and where not to ‘go’), and rewarding them with a treat when successful.
Exercise, Training & Play
Treating your new dog like a young puppy and going back to basics, can help keep things simple, on track, and build a trusting relationship.
When your dog hits their adult years, exercise is key to keeping them lean and healthy. Walks and park visits give them stimulation and physical activity, as well as fun ‘sniff’ time. ‘Fetch’ with a favourite frisbee keeps exercise interesting.
When it comes to training, remember you can always teach a new dog new tricks! Introduce a rotation of new and novel toys, including interactive puzzles and games, to keep their brains and bodies active—just like doing a crossword or Sudoku, but for dogs. Variety is key!
Freeze pet-safe broth on a lick mat for a tasty, interactive treat that mentally stimulates and nourishes.
Use treat dispensers (or scatter the treats around your home by hand) to encourage dogs to 'hunt'. This enrichment game is mentally stimulating and mimics their natural feeding behaviour.
The Senior Years
Giving an older pet a second chance is rewarding for everyone. BFFs in their golden years are likely to need a little extra TLC—we can help with that—while you help with the extra cuddles.
Specialized foods, supplements, and accessories designed for older pets goes a long way to supporting healthy aging.
Opt for low-sodium foods and supplements for aging hips and joints.
Play & Exercise
Staying active remains an important element in the lives of senior dogs. Daily walks should still be on the agenda for canine companions, even if at a slower pace.
If your pet has mobility issues, small alterations to their new surroundings can greatly impact their lives. Think products like ramps and steps to help dogs get in and out of the car.
Health & Wellness
Older dogs can be more sensitive to temperatures. Keep them cozy with a sweater, an extra layer under a raincoat, or a winter jacket. Protect their paws with booties, and consider adding a sock base layer for warmth and anti-slip traction at home to reduce joint stress.
It's a great idea to support joint health early—give supplements before your senior dog shows signs of slowing down.
The Senior Years
Giving an older pet a second chance is rewarding for everyone. BFFs in their golden years are likely to need a little extra TLC—we can help with that—while you help with the extra cuddles.
Specialized foods, supplements, and accessories designed for older pets goes a long way to supporting healthy aging.
Opt for low-sodium foods and supplements for aging hips and joints.
Play & Exercise
Staying active remains an important element in the lives of senior dogs. Daily walks should still be on the agenda for canine companions, even if at a slower pace.
If your pet has mobility issues, small alterations to their new surroundings can greatly impact their lives. Think products like ramps and steps to help dogs get in and out of the car.
Health & Wellness
Older dogs can be more sensitive to temperatures. Keep them cozy with a sweater, an extra layer under a raincoat, or a winter jacket. Protect their paws with booties, and consider adding a sock base layer for warmth and anti-slip traction at home to reduce joint stress.
It's a great idea to support joint health early—give supplements before your senior dog shows signs of slowing down.
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Copyright © 2025 Pet Valu Canada Inc.