Vaccinations are essential for protecting your puppy from serious diseases. Here’s a guide to the typical vaccination schedule for puppies.
- 6-8 Weeks:
- Distemper: Protects against a contagious viral disease that affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems.
- Parvovirus: Protects against a highly contagious virus that causes severe gastrointestinal illness.
- Adenovirus (Hepatitis): Protects against infectious hepatitis, which affects the liver.
- 9-12 Weeks:
- Second Round of Distemper, Parvovirus, and Adenovirus: Boosts the initial vaccination.
- Parainfluenza: Protects against a respiratory virus that causes kennel cough.
- Bordetella: Protects against kennel cough, especially important for puppies that will be boarded or around other dogs.
- 12-16 Weeks:
- Third Round of Distemper, Parvovirus, Adenovirus, and Parainfluenza: Provides further protection.
- Rabies: Legally required in many areas, protects against the deadly rabies virus.
- 16-20 Weeks:
- Final Round of Distemper, Parvovirus, Adenovirus, and Parainfluenza: Completes the initial series.
- Leptospirosis: Protects against a bacterial disease that affects the liver and kidneys, especially important for puppies in areas where leptospirosis is common.
- 6 Months to 1 Year:
- Booster Shots: Depending on your vet’s recommendation, your puppy may need booster shots for distemper, parvovirus, adenovirus, and other vaccines.
- Spaying/Neutering: Discuss the timing of spaying or neutering your puppy with your vet.
- Annual Vaccinations:
- Rabies: Typically required by law annually or every three years, depending on local regulations.
- Bordetella: Booster if your dog is frequently in contact with other dogs.
- Leptospirosis: Annual booster if needed.
- Optional Vaccinations:
- Lyme Disease: Recommended for dogs in areas where Lyme disease is prevalent.
- Canine Influenza: Recommended for dogs that are often in close contact with other dogs, such as in boarding facilities or dog parks.
- Vaccine Records: Keep a record of all vaccinations and booster shots. This is important for future vet visits, boarding, and traveling. Having up-to-date vaccine records ensures that your puppy is protected and helps in managing their overall health care.
