Puppyhood is equal parts adorable chaos and critical development. By layering genomic data onto classic best practices, you’ll build a science‑driven foundation for lifelong vitality. Use this eight‑week‑to‑one‑year checklist—infused with DNA insights—to stay organised.

Week 8-10: Capture Baseline DNA

Collect a cheek‑swab before the pup tastes kibble; contaminants degrade sample quality. Early testing qualifies you for breed‑club genetic guarantees and sets a reference for future studies.

Week 8-12: Personalized Vaccine Plan

Certain breeds (Rottweilers, Dobermans) have weaker parvovirus titers. An ancestry‑guided schedule may add an extra booster at Week 20, strengthening immunity.

Month 2: Tailored Nutrition

Genes like IGF1 and MC4R influence growth velocity and energy use. Use DNA insights to pick large‑breed puppy formulas with controlled calcium–phosphorus ratios or high‑protein diets for petite metabolizers.

Month 3: Temperament-Based Socialization

DRD4 and OXTR variants correlate with curiosity versus cautiousness. Confident pups excel in busy puppy‑kindergarten; shy genotypes thrive on structured, one‑on‑one sessions.

Month 4: Baseline Imaging for High-Risk Breeds

If COL1A1 flags hip‑dysplasia risk, schedule early PennHIP radiographs. Early detection enables weight‑management and joint supplements before damage develops.

Month 5: Mental Enrichment Aligned to Genes

Herding‑breed DNA benefits from herding balls and agility tunnels; scent‑hound genes adore nose‑work games. Matching enrichment to genetic drives prevents boredom‑based behaviors.

Month 6-8: Spay/Neuter Timing Decision

Studies show delayed sterilization (18+ months) lowers orthopedic issues in large breeds. DNA ancestry guides your vet on the optimal age.

Month 9-12: Genetic Re-Screen & Growth Audit

Some labs offer free reanalysis as databases expand. Retest if initial call‑rate <98 %. Compare growth curves to breed‑DNA standards to fine‑tune nutrition.

Quick-Reference Checklist

• DNA Test - Swab before 10 weeks; retest if lab QC <98 %

• Vaccines - Add booster week 20 for low‑titer breeds

• Diet - Adjust macros by IGF1 / MC4R genotype

• Training - Select class by DRD4/OXTR temperament

• Screening - Early PennHIP if COL1A1 risk

• Reproduction - Delay neuter if large‑breed genotype present

• Enrichment - Match toys to ancestral drives

• Recordkeeping - Store DNA & vet docs in digital binder

Following this roadmap turns guesswork into data‑driven care—delivering healthier, happier adult dogs.