Owner of Lab Puppy Has Questions About Teething, Shots, and Zoomies

Veterinarian Dr. John De Jong offers advice on common puppy behaviors and health concerns.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 7:09am

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An extremely abstracted, out-of-focus photograph of a Labrador Retriever puppy running through a lush, green backyard, with soft pools of warm light and color creating a dreamlike, atmospheric scene that captures the playful spirit of a new furry companion.The joyful energy of a new puppy exploring the world brings a sense of wonder and delight to its owner's daily life.Boston Today

A Boston-area dog owner with a four-month-old Labrador Retriever puppy has questions about their puppy's teething, eye weeping, vaccination status, and wild running episodes known as 'zoomies'. Dr. John De Jong, a local veterinarian and president of the World Veterinary Association, provides guidance on these typical puppy behaviors and health issues.

Why it matters

Raising a new puppy can be an exciting but challenging experience, especially for first-time dog owners. Understanding normal puppy development and behaviors can help owners properly care for their furry friends and avoid unnecessary worry or trips to the vet.

The details

The owner's Labrador Retriever puppy, who is 40 lbs at four months old, has been losing puppy teeth, has a drooping lower eyelid that causes eye weeping, and frequently runs around the house in wild bursts of energy known as 'zoomies'. The owner also has questions about when the puppy can safely interact with other dogs and if it needs any additional vaccinations beyond the upcoming rabies shot.

  • The puppy is currently four months old.
  • The puppy is scheduled for a rabies shot next week.

The players

K.D.

The owner of the four-month-old Labrador Retriever puppy with questions about their puppy's health and behavior.

Dr. John De Jong

A local veterinarian in Boston and the president of the World Veterinary Association, who is providing advice to the puppy owner.

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What they’re saying

“What a joy to go through all that you are experiencing with a puppy. Even though you had a dog of the same breed, all puppies are different in so many ways.”

— Dr. John De Jong, Veterinarian

“As for exposing puppies to other dogs, there is much to be said for socialization. Let her play with other dogs since by now she should be fully vaccinated for transmissible diseases. She does not need a rabies vaccine to interact with other dogs but once done, you should be all set.”

— Dr. John De Jong, Veterinarian

“As for the 'zoomies,' it is nothing more than a burst of energy and is completely natural. Enjoy this time!”

— Dr. John De Jong, Veterinarian

What’s next

The puppy is scheduled for a rabies shot next week, which will allow it to safely interact with other dogs.

The takeaway

Raising a new puppy can come with many questions, but understanding normal puppy behaviors and health concerns can help owners provide the best care. With the guidance of an experienced veterinarian, this Labrador Retriever owner can feel reassured about their puppy's teething, eye weeping, socialization, and energetic 'zoomies'.