Vaccinations are vital for protecting your dog against a number of dangerous, and potentially deadly conditions. Here, our vet shares the recommended schedule for getting your dog vaccinated.
Puppies
When adopting or purchasing a puppy be sure to request a copy of your new pet's medical records, including their immunization records. Your dog will visit the vet numerous times throughout their life, and knowing their medical and immunization history is important.
When should your puppy get their first shots?
For optimum protection, our vets recommend that your puppy receive their first round of vaccinations as soon as they are weaned, between six to eight weeks old.
After that, your puppy should receive a series of shots every two to four weeks until they are about 14 weeks old.
I'm not sure if my dog is up-to-date on shots, what should I do?
If you have a dog that's over 16 weeks old and isn't fully vaccinated, or if you don't know the vaccination history of your pet, consult your vet. You may be advised to begin the vaccination process again in order to protect your pet.
When it comes to your pet's health it's always better to be safe than sorry!
Vaccination Schedule for Puppies & Adult Dogs
The following is a helpful outline of which vaccinations your dog should receive and when.
DHLPPC: Protects your dog against distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, parainfluenza, parvo and corona.
- First vaccination: 6 - 8 weeks
- Second vaccination: 9 - 11 weeks
- Third vaccination: 12 - 14 weeks
- Fourth vaccination: 16 - 17 weeks
- Booster shots: Every 12 months
Bordetella: Protection against kennel cough.
- First vaccination: 14 weeks
- Booster shots: Every 6 - 12 months
Rabies: Keeps your pet safe from the deadly rabies virus.
- First vaccination: 16 weeks (varies by state)
- Booster shots: Every 12 - 36 months
Lyme: Helps to prevent Lyme disease in pets.
- First vaccination: 14 weeks
- Second vaccination: 17 weeks
- Booster shots: Every 12 months
Does my dog need all of the available vaccines?
Risk factors are different for each pet. However, to protect your dog's health throughout their lifetime it is essential to keep your pet immunized against parvovirus, distemper, rabies and hepatitis.
Your vet will consider the risk factors facing your pet and advise you on which immunizations are best for your dog.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.