Dog Vaccination Schedule: Protecting Your Canine Companion

Essential Dog Vaccines

Vaccinations are your dog’s first line of defense against serious diseases. Here’s the complete guide:

Core Vaccines (Essential for All Dogs):

• DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza):
  • Puppies: 6-8 weeks, 10-12 weeks, 14-16 weeks, 16-20 weeks
  • Adults: Annual or every 3 years
• Rabies:
  • First vaccine: 12-16 weeks
  • Booster: 1 year later, then every 1-3 years

Non-Core Vaccines (Based on Lifestyle):

• Bordetella (Kennel Cough): For dogs in boarding, daycare, or dog parks
• Lyme Disease: For dogs in tick-endemic areas
• Canine Influenza: For dogs in high-risk environments
• Leptospirosis: For dogs exposed to wildlife or standing water

Puppy Vaccination Timeline:

6-8 weeks: First DHPP
10-12 weeks: Second DHPP
14-16 weeks: Third DHPP + Rabies
16-20 weeks: Final DHPP booster

Adult Dog Schedule:

Most adult dogs need annual or triennial boosters depending on the vaccine type and your vet’s recommendations. Regular wellness exams help determine the best schedule for your dog.

Why Vaccines Are Critical:

Vaccines prevent deadly diseases like:

• Parvovirus: Highly contagious, often fatal in puppies
• Distemper: Affects multiple body systems
• Rabies: Fatal to both dogs and humans