Puppy and Dog Vaccine Schedule: A Complete Guide for Pet Owners

A vital part of a dog’s overall health is receiving vaccines as a form of preventive healthcare, since vaccines protect dogs against diseases that can be deadly. From when a pup is born up through their elderly years, it’s crucial to adhere to vaccine schedules.

Follow our complete vaccine schedule to better understand which shots are vital for your four-legged friend’s health and happiness.

How Do Vaccines Work for Dogs?

Just like humans, dogs need vaccines to stay protected from diseases. Illnesses such as rabies have a history of killing many dogs, and the best way to protect your pet is through vaccination.

These vaccines are typically administered as a shot under the skin of a dog’s shoulder, hip, or thigh. Once your pet has been given a vaccine, a minimal amount of the disease’s microorganisms will be introduced to their immune system, which will help it build a defense against the disease. If your dog ever encounters the disease’s microorganisms in the future, their immune system will be equipped to fight it.

Vaccine Schedule: From 6 Weeks Old and Up

Vaccines are an important part of healthcare for young dogs, as puppies’ immune systems are vulnerable to the world around them. A dog’s overall vaccine schedule will begin as early as 6 weeks old.

Below, we’ve compiled a sample vaccine schedule, listing both core vaccines required for all dogs and noncore vaccines that may be needed based on lifestyle factors. Noncore vaccines can be discussed with your veterinarian.

6–8 Weeks

Core vaccines:

• DHP (Distemper, Hepatitis, or Parvo) – These vaccines address serious conditions, and puppies need to receive ongoing boosters every 2–4 weeks

Noncore vaccines:

• Bordetella – Preventative medication for this bacterium doesn’t have to be administered as a shot, because puppies can also receive it orally

10–12 Weeks

Core Vaccines: 

• DHP booster 

Noncore vaccines:

• Lyme disease – This is a 2-series vaccine, with an annual follow-up featuring a booster
• Canine influenza – This is a 2-series vaccine, and is typically followed by an annual booster

14–16 Weeks

Core vaccines:

• DHP booster 

• Rabies – Required by local or state law

Noncore vaccines:

• Lyme booster
• Canine influenza booster

16–20 Weeks

Core vaccines: 

• DHP booster – For at-risk puppies

1 Year 

Core vaccines: 

• DHP booster – Recommended for all dogs who are 1 year of age, or after 12 months have passed since their last DHP shot

Every 1–3 Years Moving Forward 

• DHP booster – This booster switches to a 3-year schedule after the 1-year booster
• Rabies – Depending on state laws, your pet will be on either a 1- or 3-year schedule

To help you plan, here is a quick breakdown that you can refer to:

Common Questions About Dog Vaccines

Do vaccines cause any side effects for dogs?

Vaccines typically don’t cause any serious side effects. Pups commonly experience some tenderness around the injection site or decreased energy the day of receiving the vaccine. These reactions don’t last more than 24 hours.

In rare cases, dogs may experience an allergic reaction to vaccines, which can include symptoms such as itchiness, facial swelling, vomiting, or difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these side effects, call your veterinarian immediately.

How much do vaccines cost?

The cost of a vaccine depends on a variety of factors, such as your location, the specific clinic, and the type of vaccine. On average, though, they typically run from $10–$20 for each shot. If you’re concerned about budgeting for vaccines, you can also look into any local, low-cost vaccination clinics or resources to help you pay. 

What should I do if my dog misses a dose?

It’s important to consult with your veterinarian, but any missed vaccinations can usually be easily administered. Veterinarians will typically require two separate visits that are spaced out between 3 and 4 weeks.

 Should I be concerned if my dog is not vaccinated? 

Yes, but no matter their age, it’s not too late to have your dog receive their shots. If your dog isn’t vaccinated, they’re more susceptible to preventable and deadly diseases. On top of this, these diseases can be costly, and in some cases can be spread to humans.

Are there vaccines for environmental threats?

Yes, depending on where you live, your veterinarian may recommend your dog receive additional vaccines to keep them safe from environmental threats. For example, if you live in an area populated by rattlesnakes, your dog will need the rattlesnake vaccine, which will protect your furry friend against the snakes’ venom.

 Other than health benefits, why is getting my dog vaccinated important? 

Having your pet up to date on vaccinations allows them to have complete freedom to attend places inhabited by other dogs. For example, many pet boarding facilities require vaccinations for any dog who will be staying there. Having your dog completely vaccinated ensures you won’t run into any issues out in the world.

Pet Palace Vaccination Requirements 

At Pet Palace, the health and safety of every dog that stays with us is our top priority. Because of this, we require the following vaccinations for each pup:

• DHPP
• Rabies
• Bordetella
• CIV (H3N2 and H3N8)

Whether you’re interested in our pet grooming, puppy training, pet boarding or day care, these vaccinations are required before your dog can be a guest at our resort.

Join the Fun at Pet Palace Today! 

When your furry friend is up to date on all of their vaccinations, they can experience all the fun that Pet Palace has to offer. If you’re interested in learning more about our dog services, feel free to reach out to one of our professionals.

 

 

Categories: Dogs, Pet Safety, Puppies, Tips for Your Pets