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Vaccination Schedule For Dogs: Everything You Must Know
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Why is vaccinating my puppy important?
Puppies completely rely on the antibodies provided in their mother’s milk for protection against harmful microorganisms. Since this protection doesn’t last, vaccinating your puppy is important to prevent infections .To put it in a nutshell, vaccines help strengthen a dog's immune system to guard itself against disease-causing germs.
When should I start vaccinating my puppy?
Puppies should typically start receiving vaccinations at around 6 to 8 weeks of age. The exact timing may vary depending on the specific vaccination schedule recommended by your veterinarian.
How do vaccinations help in boosting dog's immunity?
By vaccinating dogs, we aim to ""prime"" their immune systems to respond effectively to potential threats. Vaccinations help prepare the immune system, so it can quickly recognize and combat specific pathogens, ultimately reducing the risk of severe illness or even death.
What is the recommended vaccination schedule for puppies?
The vaccination schedule varies slightly, depending on the region and the specific vaccine protocols recommended by your veterinarian. Generally, vaccinations start at around 6 to 8 weeks of age, with boosters given every 2 to 4 weeks until the puppy is around 16 weeks old. Additional boosters and annual vaccinations may be needed to maintain immunity.
Which diseases are typically covered by puppy vaccinations?
Vaccines and the primary doses schedule as a puppy and an adult are given below:
| Vaccine | Primary Dose Puppy | Primary Dose Adult |
| Distemper | 3 doses, 2-3-4 months | 2 dose, 3-4 weeks apart |
| Adenovirus – 2 | 3 doses, 2-3-4 months | 2 dose, 3-4 weeks apart |
| Parainfluenza | 3 doses, 2-3-4 months | 2 dose, 3-4 weeks apart |
| Bordetella bronchiseptica | 3 doses, 6-9-12 weeks | 2-3 doses 3 weeks apart |
| Parvovirus | 3 doses, 2-3-4 months | 1 dose |
| Lyme Disease : Borrelia burgdorferi | Two doses : 12th and 15th week | 2-3 doses 3 weeks apart |
| Corona Virus | Begins at 6 weeks & every 3 weeks until 12 weeks of age | 2-3 doses, 3 weeks apart |
| Giardia | 8th and 11th week | 2 doses, 3-4 weeks apart |
| Leptospirosis | 8th and 11th week | 2 doses, 3-4 weeks apart |
| Rabies | 3 months of age | 1 dose |
Are there any risks or side effects associated with puppy vaccinations?
Vaccinations are generally safe, but some puppies may experience mild side effects such as temporary soreness at the injection site or lethargy. Serious adverse reactions are rare but the following symptoms can occur:
- Sluggishness
- Appetite loss
- Fever
- Hives and/or facial or paw swelling
- Diarrhoea
- Dog vomiting
- Seizures, troubled breathing (anaphylactic shock), collapse
Is it necessary for my puppy to receive all recommended vaccinations?
Core vaccinations are highly recommended for all puppies as they protect against common and potentially dangerous diseases. Non-core vaccinations may be recommended based on your puppy's lifestyle and potential exposure risks, such as boarding, grooming, or outdoor activities. Discuss with your vet to determine the best vaccination plan for your puppy.
Can my puppy socialise with other dogs before completing vaccinations?
It’s advised not to take your puppy out for walks before completing their vaccinations, however they can socialise with other vaccinated dogs. Your veterinarian can guide you on safe socialisation practices and recommend when and where it is appropriate for your puppy to interact with other dogs.
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