week 4
Week 4 — 12-Week Old Puppy
At this stage, your puppy is developing confidence and consistency. This week focuses on health milestones, grooming, and refining early training foundations.
1) Health & Vaccination
Around 12 weeks, your puppy is ready for their DHPP booster vaccine, which includes protection against distemper, adenovirus, parainfluenza, and parvovirus. Do not administer the rabies vaccine at this time — that will be handled by the client’s veterinarian at a later date.
- Schedule a vet appointment for the DHPP vaccine this week.
- Keep your health log updated with vaccine records and vet notes.
- Consult with the breeder or vet before adding any supplements or dewormers.
Bring the puppy’s medical folder to the appointment and photograph all updated documents for digital record-keeping.
2) Grooming & Maintenance
Schedule your puppy’s final grooming session before handoff. Regular grooming helps them stay photo-ready and ensures comfort with handling.
- Book a professional groom (bath, blowout, trim) within the next few days.
- Brush daily and continue trimming around the eyes, feet, and sanitary areas.
- Use gentle, positive reinforcement during grooming to reinforce calm behavior.
This session prepares your puppy for life-long grooming success and reinforces a calm, confident response to handling.
3) Training Progress & Focus
At 12 weeks, most puppies are mastering the basics and ready to increase distractions and duration in training sessions.
- Reinforce core commands: Sit, Down, Come, Place, Stay.
- Practice leash walking around light distractions (backyard, driveway, sidewalk).
- Continue crate time, focus on quiet independence, and short alone periods.
Consistency is key — build confidence through repetition and calm praise.
4) Confidence & Socialization
Exposure is still important, but safety comes first. Socialize with people, environments, and controlled stimuli while maintaining limited contact with unknown dogs.
- Continue car rides, brief store visits (in arms or carrier), and calm introductions to new environments.
- Allow short, positive interactions with vaccinated, known dogs.
- Pair all new experiences with treats and verbal praise to keep associations positive.
5) Preparing for Handoff
- Confirm final grooming and vet appointments are complete.
- Ensure health, socialization, and media logs are updated.
- Upload final photos and a short video for the client.
- Prepare a clean crate and include any comfort items for the puppy’s transition.
A polished presentation reflects our standard of excellence — every handoff should feel special and intentional.