Puppy Vaccinations and Recommended Schedule
Vaccinating puppies is crucial for their health and well-being. Vaccines help protect them from a range of potentially deadly diseases by stimulating their immune systems to build resistance. Additionally, many vaccines help prevent the spread of diseases to other animals and even humans (zoonotic diseases).
Key Reasons Puppy Vaccinations Are Important:
- Protection Against Serious Diseases: Vaccines guard against life-threatening illnesses like parvovirus, distemper, canine hepatitis, and rabies.
- Community Immunity: Vaccinating helps prevent outbreaks, protecting not just your puppy but other dogs and animals in your area.
- Legal & Travel Requirements: Rabies vaccination is legally required in many regions and necessary for travel or boarding.
- Cost-effective: Preventing disease through vaccination is far cheaper than treating serious infections.
Core Puppy Vaccinations & Recommended Schedule:
| Vaccine | Protects Against | Recommended Age |
|---|---|---|
| DHPP/DAPP (Combo Vaccine) | Distemper, Hepatitis (Adenovirus), Parainfluenza, Parvovirus | First dose: 6-8 weeks Boosters: Every 3-4 weeks until 16 weeks |
| Rabies | Rabies (fatal, zoonotic disease) | Typically at 12-16 weeks, booster at 1 year, then every 1-3 years (varies by law) |
| Bordetella (Kennel Cough) | Bordetella bronchiseptica (respiratory infection) | Around 8-12 weeks (if risk factors apply), booster annually |
| Leptospirosis | Bacterial infection affecting kidneys & liver (zoonotic) | Often given at 12+ weeks, may require booster |
| Lyme Disease (optional) | Bacterial infection from ticks | Given in areas with high tick populations, typically after 12 weeks |
| Canine Influenza (optional) | Dog flu | Recommended based on lifestyle and exposure risk |
Typical Vaccination Timeline Overview:
| Age | Vaccinations Given |
| 6-8 weeks | First DHPP/DAPP shot, Bordetella (if needed) |
| 10-12 weeks | Second DHPP/DAPP shot, possible Leptospirosis, Lyme |
| 14-16 weeks | Third DHPP/DAPP shot, Rabies vaccine |
| 12 months | DHPP/DAPP booster, Rabies booster, others as needed |
Final Tips:
- Always follow your vet’s advice regarding timing and specific vaccines.
- Keep your puppy indoors or in controlled environments until fully vaccinated.
- When socially exposing your puppy-carry him/her in your arms and keep off the public ground
- Don’t skip booster shots—they ensure long-term immunity.
