First vaccines for your puppy: a simple schedule

Vaccines are the most effective way to protect a young puppy from serious, sometimes fatal diseases. This guide explains the usual pattern. Your vet decides the exact plan, because schedules differ by country, region and the puppy's health.

Why puppies need a series

Puppies get some protection from their mother's milk. That protection fades at an unpredictable time and can also block a vaccine from working. So puppies are vaccinated several times, until the maternal protection is surely gone.

A typical schedule

• 6 to 8 weeks: first core vaccine (distemper, parvovirus, adenovirus).
• Every 3 to 4 weeks after that: boosters, with the last one at 16 weeks or later.
• 12 to 16 weeks: rabies, where the law requires it or you plan to travel.
• About 12 months: first yearly booster, then as your vet advises.

Other vaccines (for example leptospirosis or kennel cough) depend on where you live and how your dog spends time.

Before and after

1. Bring any papers from the breeder or shelter.
2. A deworming and a health check are normally done at the first visit.
3. Keep the puppy calm for a day after the shot. Mild tiredness is common.
4. Call the vet if you see swelling of the face, repeated vomiting or collapse.

Going outside

Ask your vet when it is safe to walk on the ground. Meanwhile, carry the puppy, meet healthy vaccinated dogs and let it see the world from your arms.

Add every vaccine to your pet's log so the next date reminds you automatically.