Puppy Vaccination Schedule

Vaccinations are essential for protecting your puppy against serious and potentially fatal diseases. This comprehensive guide outlines the recommended vaccination schedule and what you need to know about keeping your puppy healthy during their early months.

Important Note: While this guide provides general information about puppy vaccinations, always follow your veterinarian's specific recommendations, as vaccination needs can vary based on your geographical location, your puppy's health status, and lifestyle factors.

Core vs. Non-Core Vaccines

Core Vaccines (Recommended for All Puppies)

Canine Parvovirus (CPV) - A highly contagious virus that causes severe gastrointestinal illness, particularly dangerous for puppies.
Canine Distemper Virus (CDV) - A serious viral illness that affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems.
Canine Adenovirus (CAV, Hepatitis) - Causes infectious hepatitis, affecting the liver, kidneys, and eyes.
Rabies - A fatal viral disease that affects the nervous system and can be transmitted to humans. Legally required in most areas.

Non-Core Vaccines (Based on Risk Factors)

Bordetella bronchiseptica (Kennel Cough) - Recommended for dogs that will attend daycare, boarding facilities, dog shows, or training classes.
Leptospirosis - Recommended for dogs with outdoor exposure, especially to wildlife or standing water.
Canine Influenza - Advised in areas with known outbreaks or for dogs in group settings.
Lyme Disease - Recommended in areas where Lyme disease is prevalent.

Recommended Vaccination Schedule

Age	Core Vaccines	Non-Core Vaccines (as recommended)
6-8 weeks	First DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvo)	Bordetella (if needed)
10-12 weeks	Second DHPP	Leptospirosis (first dose) Lyme (first dose, if needed) Canine Influenza (first dose, if needed)
14-16 weeks	Third DHPP Rabies (first dose)	Leptospirosis (second dose) Lyme (second dose, if needed) Canine Influenza (second dose, if needed)
12-16 months	DHPP booster Rabies booster (good for 1-3 years depending on vaccine used)	Annual boosters for non-core vaccines as needed
Adult (Annual)	DHPP booster (every 1-3 years) Rabies booster (as required by law, typically every 1-3 years)	Annual boosters for non-core vaccines as needed

Printable Vaccination Record

Keep track of your puppy's vaccinations with this printable record. Bring it to each vet visit to maintain a complete history of your dog's immunizations.

What to Expect After Vaccination

Normal Reactions

Mild reactions to vaccines are common and typically resolve within 24-48 hours. These may include:

Mild soreness or swelling at the injection site
Slight fever
Reduced appetite
Decreased activity or mild lethargy
Sneezing or mild coughing (after intranasal vaccines)

When to Contact Your Vet

Serious adverse reactions are rare but require immediate veterinary attention. Contact your veterinarian if you notice:

Facial swelling, hives, or itchiness
Vomiting or diarrhea
Difficulty breathing
Collapse
Severe lethargy or unresponsiveness
Any symptoms that worsen or persist beyond 48 hours

Socialization During the Vaccination Period

The critical socialization period for puppies overlaps with their vaccination schedule. While it's important to protect your puppy from disease, it's equally important to provide proper socialization during this formative time.

Safe Socialization Options

Puppy classes that require proof of vaccination
Visits with healthy, vaccinated dogs
Carrying your puppy in public areas to expose them to sights and sounds
Home visits from friends and family
Car rides and visits to puppy-friendly businesses

Places to Avoid Until Fully Vaccinated

Dog parks
Pet store floors
Areas frequented by unknown dogs
Walking in areas with high dog traffic
Boarding facilities (unless they have special areas for puppies)

Cost Considerations

Vaccination costs vary by region, clinic, and specific vaccines needed. On average, expect to pay:

$75-$100 per visit for core vaccines during the puppy series
$15-$30 for each non-core vaccine
$15-$40 for the rabies vaccine

Many clinics offer "puppy packages" that include all necessary vaccines at a discounted rate. Some animal shelters and non-profit organizations also offer low-cost vaccination clinics.

Keeping Vaccination Records

Maintain detailed records of your puppy's vaccinations, including:

Dates of administration
Vaccine types and brand names
Lot numbers (if provided)
Clinic information
Due dates for boosters

These records are essential for boarding, grooming, training classes, and travel. They also help maintain continuity of care if you change veterinarians.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are core vaccines for puppies?

Core vaccines are essential vaccinations recommended for all puppies regardless of lifestyle. These include vaccines for canine parvovirus, distemper, canine hepatitis (adenovirus), and rabies. These diseases are highly contagious, widespread, and can cause serious illness or death.

When should my puppy get their first vaccinations?

Puppies typically receive their first vaccinations at 6-8 weeks of age. This usually includes the first doses of the combination vaccine DHPP (distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, and parvovirus). Puppies then receive booster shots every 3-4 weeks until they are about 16 weeks old.

Are vaccine side effects common in puppies?

Mild side effects are relatively common but usually resolve quickly. These may include temporary soreness at the injection site, mild fever, reduced appetite, or lethargy for 24-48 hours. Serious reactions are rare. Contact your veterinarian immediately if your puppy experiences facial swelling, vomiting, diarrhea, collapse, or difficulty breathing.

When can my puppy socialize with other dogs safely?

Puppies should begin socialization before their vaccination series is complete, but in controlled environments. Avoid dog parks and areas frequented by unknown dogs until 2 weeks after the final vaccinations (around 16-18 weeks). Puppy socialization classes that require proof of vaccinations, visits with healthy vaccinated dogs, and controlled environments are safer options during this critical socialization period.