When should my puppy get their first vaccines and what do they cover?

Puppy Vaccination Schedule

Puppies generally begin their core vaccinations at approximately 6-8 weeks of age. These initial shots are crucial for protecting them from common and often severe canine diseases. The core vaccines usually include protection against:

• Canine Distemper: A highly contagious viral disease that affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems.
• Canine Parvovirus: A highly contagious virus causing severe vomiting and diarrhea, often fatal, especially in young puppies.
• Canine Adenovirus (Hepatitis): Affects the liver and can cause respiratory issues.
• Canine Parainfluenza Virus: One of the viruses that contribute to kennel cough.

These initial vaccines are typically followed by booster shots every 3-4 weeks until the puppy is around 16 weeks old, to ensure a robust immune response. After the initial series, regular boosters are given, usually annually or every three years, depending on the vaccine type and your vet's recommendation. Rabies vaccination is also legally required in many areas and is typically given around 12-16 weeks of age.

It's important to keep your puppy away from unvaccinated animals and areas with high dog traffic until their vaccination series is complete to minimize exposure risks.

When to see a vet

Always consult your veterinarian for an individualized vaccination schedule based on your puppy's age, health, and local disease prevalence. If your puppy shows any signs of illness before or after vaccinations, such as lethargy, vomiting, or diarrhea, contact your vet immediately.