Puppy Vaccination Schedule

Every veterinarian may have a slightly different approach to vaccinations. The information provided here outlines a common schedule, but it's essential to follow your veterinarian's specific advice for your puppy's health and well-being.

1st Puppy Vaccinations: 6 Weeks Old

At 6 weeks, your puppy should receive their first vaccination. This is a 'core' vaccine, crucial for protecting against potentially fatal diseases. It's important that your puppy has had this initial vaccination before you bring them home.

Core Vaccines Administered:

• Parvovirus
• Distemper
• Adenovirus (Hepatitis)
• Parainfluenza

2nd Puppy Vaccinations: 9 Weeks Old

The second round of vaccinations usually occurs 3 to 4 weeks after the first. This vaccine is a repeat of the first dose and further strengthens your puppy’s immunity.

Vaccines Administered:

• Parvovirus
• Distemper
• Adenovirus (Hepatitis)
• Parainfluenza

3rd Puppy Vaccination: 12 Weeks Old

At 12 weeks, your puppy will receive a round of the 5-in-1 vaccine (C5). It’s important to note that your puppy will not be fully vaccinated for another two weeks after this shot.

Vaccines Administered:

• Parvovirus
• Distemper
• Adenovirus (Hepatitis)
• Parainfluenza
• Leptospirosis

Socialization Note: Socialization is crucial during this stage, but precautions should be taken. Avoid grassy areas like parks and playfields, as these can harbor diseases. Instead, stick to safer environments like roads, and pavements.

4th Puppy Vaccination: 15 Weeks Old

The final puppy vaccination in the initial series is given at 15 weeks. This typically includes a booster for the C5. Then rabies and Bordetella are also added.

Vaccines Administered:

• Parvovirus
• Distemper
• Adenovirus (Hepatitis)
• Parainfluenza
• Leptospirosis
• Rabies
• Bordetella

Long-term Protection: After this, your veterinarian will likely recommend a booster shot for the C5 and rabies vaccines approximately 12 months later. Following this, booster vaccines are usually administered every 3 years. For the Bordetella, you should administer it every 12 months. If your dog is frequently exposed to other dogs (e.g., at boarding facilities, dog parks, grooming salons, training classes, or doggy daycare), it is important to remember the Bordetella booster.