How Often Should I Take My Labradoodle to the Vet for Checkups and Vaccinations?
Labradoodles are known for their energy, charm, and fluffy coats, but just like any other dog, they need consistent veterinary care to stay healthy. Regular checkups and timely vaccinations are key to helping your Labradoodle live a long, active life. Whether you’re a new doodle parent or looking to fine-tune your care routine, knowing how often to visit the vet can make all the difference.
Puppy Stage: The Most Active Vet Period
When your Labradoodle is a puppy, vet visits will be more frequent. From around six to eight weeks of age, your pup will start receiving a series of core vaccines, usually spaced out every three to four weeks until they’re about 16 weeks old. These include shots for distemper, parvovirus, adenovirus, and parainfluenza. Rabies typically comes later, around 12 to 16 weeks, depending on your state’s regulations.
During these early visits, the vet will also check your puppy’s overall growth, weight, and development. Deworming and flea prevention may also be part of the care routine. Don’t skip these early appointments—this is when your pup builds the foundation of their health.
Adult Dogs: Yearly Visits and Boosters
Once your Labradoodle hits the one-year mark, you can shift to an annual visit schedule. This is when booster shots are given to maintain immunity. Some vaccines, like rabies, may only be required every one to three years depending on your location and local laws.
During these visits, your vet will perform a full physical exam—checking your dog’s heart, lungs, eyes, ears, teeth, skin, and joints. If there are any changes in weight, behavior, or energy levels, your vet may suggest further tests or treatments.
Even if your dog seems perfectly healthy, regular checkups help catch early signs of illness. It’s like a safety net that makes sure nothing serious is brewing under the surface.
Senior Labradoodles: Twice-a-Year is Best
As your Labradoodle enters their senior years (usually around 7 to 10 years of age), more frequent vet visits are recommended. Every six months is ideal, since older dogs are more prone to arthritis, dental issues, kidney problems, and other age-related conditions.
During these appointments, the vet may recommend blood tests, X-rays, or other diagnostics to keep an eye on your dog’s internal health. Early detection can make treatment easier and more effective, so don’t overlook these biannual checkups.
Vaccination Schedules to Keep in Mind
Here’s a quick look at the core vaccinations and how often they’re generally given:
Rabies: Every 1 to 3 years
DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza): Booster at 1 year, then every 1 to 3 years
Leptospirosis: Annually, if recommended based on risk
Bordetella (Kennel Cough): Every 6 to 12 months, especially for social or boarding dogs
Canine Influenza: Annually, depending on exposure risk
Your vet might adjust this schedule based on your dog’s health, lifestyle, and where you live.
When to See the Vet Outside of Checkups
Sometimes, health issues pop up in between scheduled visits. If your Labradoodle is showing signs like vomiting, diarrhea, sudden weight loss, lethargy, limping, or unusual behavior, it’s worth calling your vet right away.
Also, if you’re planning to travel, board your dog, or start them in a new doggy daycare or training class, your vet may recommend extra vaccinations or parasite treatments.
Don’t Forget Preventive Care
Vaccinations and exams are important, but don’t forget things like dental cleanings, heartworm prevention, and flea and tick control. These preventive steps go hand in hand with regular vet visits and play a big role in keeping your Labradoodle happy and healthy.
Final Thoughts
Routine vet visits aren’t just about getting shots—they’re about building a full picture of your Labradoodle’s health at every stage of life. From wiggly puppies to wise seniors, each checkup is a chance to keep your doodle feeling their best.
At All About The Doodles, we care deeply about giving Labradoodles the healthiest and happiest life possible. Whether you're looking for grooming tips, training advice, or wellness support, we're here to help guide you through it all with love and know-how.