Shortly after you pick up your puppy, you should pay a visit to the veterinarian's office. The veterinary visit allows you to learn whether your pup has any infectious diseases or other problems. If a major problem is identified that prompts you to take the puppy back to the breeder, at least you've found out early enough that you can return the pup before you've had too much time to fall in love with her.

If you've selected your veterinarian carefully, this visit will allow your new poodle to develop positive associations with going to the vet. Your vet and all the staff should be gentle and caring, and you should do everything in your power to see that your pup isn't frightened.

Because the mother's immunity passes to the pups through her milk, your puppy may not be immune to infectious diseases, even if she has been vaccinated already. So when you're at the veterinarian's office this visit, carry her. A good vet follows sanitary procedures, so you shouldn't have to worry about her contact with the examination table. But it's wise to avoid contact with the ill dogs that might be at the vet's office.

Should You Vaccinate?

Don't give your puppy a vaccination at this vet visit. The painful shot might build a painful association with the veterinarian's office. Take a close look at the vaccination records your breeder will have given you. Talk with him in advance about his vaccination recommendations, and do some research so that you know whether a vaccination at this point is recommended. If so, schedule another appointment.

Vaccinations are not benign. Poodles, in particular, are prone to autoimmune problems, which can be triggered by vaccinations. Go to the vet prepared to discuss the issue, with a clear idea in mind of what you think is most appropriate for your pup. You can't take back a vaccination.

The New Adult

If your new poodle is an adult dog, a trip to the veterinarian to rule out any health concerns is still in order. If she's come from a rescue group or shelter, chances are good that she's been recently vaccinated. Don't vaccinate him again until you know for sure that she needs it. Again, you want to avoid overvaccinating your poodle.

Ask your vet to give your new dog a thorough exam and identify any potential problems you might want to keep your eye on. Make sure this first vet visit is a positive one, regardless of the age of your poodle. This is a chance to set some precedents and build positive associations for your dog.