Puppy Vaccination Guide: What Every New Dog Owner Needs to Know
Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting time—but it also comes with important responsibilities, especially when it comes to their health. One of the most essential steps in raising a healthy puppy is vaccination. While vaccine schedules can be overwhelming, your vet will walk you through this process carefully. This article will provide you the basics, to get you started.
Why Vaccinate Puppies?
Vaccines help protect puppies from serious, often life-threatening diseases. Puppies are born with some immune protection from their mothers, but this wanes over time, and they need a series of vaccines to build strong immunity on their own. Skipping vaccines puts your puppy at risk for preventable diseases.
Core vs. Non-Core Vaccines
Veterinarians classify vaccines as core (recommended for all puppies) and non-core (based on lifestyle and location).
Core Vaccines:
DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza)
Rabies
Non-Core Vaccines (may be recommended based on risk):
Leptospirosis
Bordetella (kennel cough)
Lyme disease
Canine influenza
Puppy Vaccination Schedule
Puppies typically begin their vaccines at 6–8 weeks of age. Here’s a general schedule:
6–8 weeks: First DHPP shot
10–12 weeks: Second DHPP + possible Bordetella or Leptospirosis (if advised)
14–16 weeks: Third DHPP + Rabies
16–20 weeks: Final boosters (depending on vaccine and region)
Your veterinarian may tailor this schedule based on your puppy's needs, health history, and local disease risk.
Talk to your veterinarian about their specific vaccination protocols. Some clinics follow different regional or health-based guidelines, and your vet will help determine what’s best for your individual puppy.
Why Multiple Doses?
Puppies need a series of boosters because their immune systems are still developing and the antibodies they get from their mothers may block the full immune response for a time. Multiple doses ensure their body builds strong and lasting immunity.
What to Expect After Vaccination
Mild side effects can occur, including:
Sleepiness
Soreness at the injection site
Low-grade fever
Temporary loss of appetite
These usually resolve within a day. Serious side effects (vomiting, facial swelling, difficulty breathing) are rare but require immediate vet attention.
How to Prepare for Your Puppy’s Vaccination Visits
Bring vaccination records or breeder/rescue paperwork.
Bring your puppy on a leash or in a carrier.
Ask questions about what to expect.
Plan a quiet day at home afterward in case your puppy is tired.
Final Thoughts
Vaccinating your puppy is one of the best investments in their lifelong health. Following the recommended schedule will protect them from devastating diseases and set them up for a healthy future. If you’re unsure about any vaccine or timing, your veterinarian is your best resource—don’t hesitate to ask!
