Vaccinations for Dogs and Puppies

The vaccination of puppies and dogs is essential when it comes to keeping them healthy. Vaccinated dogs will have a strong immune system that will help them fight off various diseases such as rabies and Lyme disease. In addition, many countries require dogs to be vaccinated before crossing their borders. So, if you are planning on travelling with your canine companion, you’ll want to make sure that all his vaccines are up to date.

Which vaccines does my puppy or dog need?

The “core” vaccine given to dogs is called DHPP. It protects them from four diseases: distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza and parvovirus.

Your veterinarian may also recommend that your dog be vaccinated against leptospirosis, Lyme disease, rabies and Bordetella.

How often does my dog need to be vaccinated?

The vaccination schedule for puppies is as follows: the first dose of DHPP vaccine is given at 8 weeks, the second at 12 weeks and the third and last at 16 weeks. After that, your dog will need a booster shot every three years.

The leptospirosis and Lyme disease vaccines are administered at 12 and 16 weeks, while the rabies and Bordetella vaccines are given at 16 weeks.

Your veterinarian will let you know the booster vaccination schedule for the various vaccines your dog will be receiving.

How should I prepare my puppy for the first vaccines?

Puppies can be anxious when they are brought to the clinic for their vaccines. There are easy things you can do to help prepare your puppy for this visit. First, before you visit the vet’s office, get your pup used to the different ways in which he will be handled during the checkup. To do this, simply touch the mouth, ears, paws and so on. When you do this at home, you are helping to desensitize him. Your dog will be more likely to react well when the veterinarian handles him in the same way.

It’s also a good idea to bring treats with you to the vaccine appointment. By giving him treats at the vet’s office, you will be creating a positive association for your pup.