My Shih Tzu Vaccination Journey: What Every First-Time Puppy Owner Should Know (2026)

When I brought Alex home, I knew vaccinations were one of the most important parts of keeping him healthy. I had read articles, watched videos, and even asked friends who had dogs about what to expect. Even after all that, I still felt a little nervous before his first vaccination appointment. As a first-time pet parent, I wanted to make sure I was doing everything right.

Looking back now, those vaccination visits weren’t just about protecting Alex from diseases. They also helped me become a more confident and responsible dog owner. If you’ve recently welcomed a puppy into your family, I hope sharing my experience with Alex helps you feel a little more prepared for your own journey.

Preparing for Alex’s First Vaccination

Before the appointment, I made sure Alex had eaten, carried some treats with me, and kept all his medical records together. I also wrote down a few questions for the veterinarian because I didn’t want to forget anything once I reached the clinic.

Like many new pet owners, I was wondering if the injection would hurt him, whether he would be scared, and how he might behave afterward. Those thoughts stayed in my mind throughout the drive to the veterinary clinic.

If you’re still preparing to bring home a puppy, I’d recommend reading What I Wish I Knew Before Getting My First Shih Tzu, where I share some of the lessons I learned even before Alex arrived.

Our First Visit to the Veterinary Clinic

The moment we entered the clinic, Alex became curious about everything around him. There were other dogs, unfamiliar smells, and new people walking around. He looked in every direction, trying to understand what this new place was all about.

I was probably more nervous than he was.

The veterinarian welcomed us warmly and spent a few minutes examining Alex before giving the vaccine. His weight, eyes, ears, teeth, heart, and overall health were checked to make sure he was healthy enough to receive the vaccination.

That health check itself gave me confidence because I realised these appointments weren’t just about injections. They were complete wellness visits where I could ask questions and make sure Alex was growing normally.

The Funny Moment I’ll Never Forget

When it was finally time for the vaccination, Alex became a little panicky. I gently held him while the veterinarian gave the injection.

It happened so quickly that it was over before either of us really had time to react.

As soon as it was done, Alex felt the tiny pinch on his back. What happened next still makes me smile whenever I think about it.

He kept turning his head over his shoulder, looking at the exact spot where he had received the injection. He looked back once, then again, and then kept checking it repeatedly as if he was trying to figure out what had just happened.

It was one of the funniest and cutest moments I’ve experienced as a dog owner.

Within a few minutes, he completely forgot about it and went back to being his cheerful self.

That little moment reminded me how quickly puppies move on from things that worry us far more than they worry them.

Alex Was a Real Super Kid

One thing that surprised me throughout his vaccination journey was how well Alex handled every appointment.

He received multiple puppy vaccinations and booster doses as recommended by our veterinarian, and every single visit went smoothly.

After each vaccination, I kept a close eye on him because I had read that some puppies might become sleepy, lose their appetite, or feel uncomfortable for a short time.

Alex, however, had other plans.

He stayed active, playful, and energetic just as he always was. It honestly amazed me how quickly he bounced back after every visit.

Sometimes I jokingly call him my little superhero because nothing seems to slow him down for very long.

Of course, every puppy is different, and some may need a little more rest after vaccinations. That’s why it’s always important to follow your veterinarian’s advice and monitor your puppy after each appointment.

Questions I Asked the Veterinarian

As a first-time dog owner, I didn’t want to assume anything. I asked every question that came to mind.

Some of the things I discussed included:

• When should Alex receive his next vaccination?
• When would it be safe for him to start going on regular walks?
• When could he safely meet other dogs?
• What signs should I watch for after the vaccination?
• Should I change his feeding routine that day?

Those conversations helped me understand that there are no silly questions when it comes to your puppy’s health.

If you’re unsure about something, ask your veterinarian. That’s exactly what they’re there for.

Keeping Track of His Vaccination Schedule

One habit I’m glad I started early was keeping all of Alex’s vaccination records organised.

Instead of trying to remember future appointments, I made sure every vaccination date was recorded and the next visit was already planned.

That simple habit made everything much less stressful.

If you’re looking for a complete timeline of recommended puppy vaccines, you can also read our Puppy Vaccination Schedule guide, which explains the purpose of each vaccination and when they’re usually given.

Vaccinations Are Only One Part of Raising a Healthy Puppy

Those regular veterinary visits also reminded me that raising a healthy dog involves much more than vaccinations alone.

Good nutrition, proper grooming, regular exercise, training, and preventive healthcare all work together to keep a puppy healthy.

Over the months, I found myself learning something new with almost every visit, and those lessons helped shape the routines Alex follows today.

You’ll find many of those experiences throughout our Dog Care Guide, Dog Nutrition Guide, Dog Grooming Guide, and Dog Training Guide for Beginners, where I’ve shared what worked best for us.

Looking Back Today

When I think about Alex’s vaccination journey now, the first thing that comes to mind isn’t the injections themselves.

It’s that adorable little puppy repeatedly looking back over his shoulder, wondering what had just happened.

That single moment still makes me laugh.

More importantly, those appointments taught me that being a good pet parent isn’t about knowing everything from the beginning. It’s about learning, asking questions, following professional advice, and giving your puppy the care they deserve.

Every vaccination visit made me a little more confident, and every visit helped keep Alex healthy while he continued growing into the happy, energetic Shih Tzu he is today.

Final Thoughts

Looking back, I can see how each milestone built on the last. Bringing Alex home, settling into our routine, and then taking him for his vaccinations all helped me become a more confident pet parent. If you’d like to follow our journey from the beginning, read My First 30 Days With My Shih Tzu Puppy.

If you’re taking your puppy for vaccinations soon, don’t let your own nervousness make the experience feel bigger than it really is.

Most puppies handle vaccinations incredibly well, especially when they’re cared for by an experienced veterinarian.

Stay calm, follow your veterinarian’s recommendations, keep your puppy’s vaccination records safe, and give them plenty of love afterward.

Looking back, I realise I worried much more than Alex ever did.

He was—and still is—my little superhero.

If you’re beginning your own journey as a first-time dog owner, I hope sharing Alex’s story gives you a little more confidence for your puppy’s first vaccination appointment.

Raju

Pet Care & Dog Training Expert – PetInfoGuide Pet care writer sharing expert dog training tips, puppy guides, cat care advice, and practical pet health information for responsible pet owners.

PetInfoGuide Editorial Team provides well-researched and practical pet care advice based on trusted sources and real-world experience. Our goal is to help pet owners make informed decisions about their pets’ health, nutrition, and daily care.