Bringing home a Cane Corso puppy is excitingâbut your responsibilities as a new dog owner begin right away. One of the first and most important steps is scheduling a veterinary checkup during your puppyâs first week at home.
Whether you’re a first-time Cane Corso owner or just need a refresher, hereâs what you can expect at your puppyâs first vet visitâand how to make the experience smooth and stress-free. View our cane corso or contact us
đ When to Schedule the First Vet Appointment
Veterinarians recommend bringing your puppy in within 3 to 5 days of bringing them home, even if the breeder or rescue claims theyâve already been examined.
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), early vet visits are essential for:
- Confirming overall health
- Beginning a proper vaccination schedule
- Establishing a medical record
- Starting parasite prevention
This initial appointment also builds a foundation of trust between your Cane Corso and your vetâsomething youâll rely on throughout your dogâs life.View our cane corso or contact us
đ¶ What to Bring to the Appointment
Be prepared with the following items:
- Any medical records from the breeder or shelter
- A stool sample (fresh, in a sealed bag or container)
- A list of questions or concerns
- Your puppyâs food and treat information
- A secure leash and collar (even if youâre carrying them in)
Transport your Cane Corso in a safe, stress-free manner. A crate or pet seatbelt is ideal, even for young pups.View our cane corso or contact us
đ©» What Happens During the Visit
Your vet will perform a head-to-tail physical exam and begin establishing a preventative care plan.
Expect the following:
- Weight and temperature check
- Examination of eyes, ears, teeth, skin, and joints
- Listening to heart and lungs
- Checking for hernias or abnormalities
- Reviewing nutrition and feeding plans
- Parasite testing (worms, fleas, ticks)
- Discussion of training, socialization, and spay/neuter timing
Cane Corso puppies grow quickly, so tracking weight and body condition is crucial. Your vet will guide you on how to maintain healthy growth to avoid joint problems common in giant breeds.
For more information on large breed puppy care, see PetMDâs Cane Corso breed guide.View our cane corso or contact us
đ Vaccinations and Parasite Prevention
Your Cane Corso puppy likely received their first round of core vaccines between 6â8 weeks of age. These include:
- DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza)
- Bordetella (optional, often required for training/boarding)
- Deworming treatment
Your vet will create a vaccination schedule continuing through 16â18 weeks. Rabies is typically given around 12â16 weeks, depending on state law.
In addition, your vet will recommend starting:
- Heartworm prevention
- Flea and tick control
- Follow-up fecal exams
You can learn more about puppy vaccination schedules from the AKC’s vaccination timeline.View our cane corso or contact us
đ§ Ask the Right Questions
Donât be afraid to ask your vet questionsâthis is the perfect time to learn more about caring for a Cane Corso.
Good questions include:
- How much should my puppy eat and how often?
- When should I switch to adult food?
- What is the ideal growth rate for a Cane Corso?
- When should we discuss spaying or neutering?
- How do I prevent common orthopedic issues?
The more you know now, the more prepared youâll be as your puppy grows.View our cane corso or contact us
đŸ After the Visit
Once your first visit is complete, schedule follow-up vaccinations and checkups immediately. Regular vet visits during the first six months help:
- Monitor development
- Catch issues early
- Build a positive vet experience
Bring treats to reward calm behavior, and practice gentle handling at home to desensitize your pup for future visits.View our cane corso or contact us
â Final Thoughts
Your Cane Corso puppyâs first vet visit sets the tone for a lifetime of health and well-being. From vaccines to nutrition, your vet is a key partner in raising a balanced, confident, and strong companion.
By preparing ahead of time and asking the right questions, youâll help your puppy feel safeâand give yourself peace of mind.View our cane corso or contact us