All Genders, Dog, Vaccination
The Complete Guide to Vaccination for Puppies and Dogs
12
Sep
Sep
Vaccinations play a vital role in protecting your dog’s well-being. In this guide, we’ll walk through the essential vaccinations every puppy and dog should receive to lead a healthy life.
Why Vaccinations Matter?
Dogs, like humans, can be susceptible to various diseases that can cause severe health issues. Vaccines help them to produce protective antibodies, effectively guarding against these diseases.
Core Vaccines for Dogs
Canine Distemper Virus (CDV)
It is a highly contagious and potentially lethal virus that affects a dog’s respiratory and nervous systems. Puppies are especially vulnerable.
Canine Parvovirus (CPV)
Parvovirus causes diarrhea, vomiting leading to dehydration and potentially death.
Canine Adenovirus (CAV-2)
CAV-2 vaccines protect against both hepatitis and respiratory infections. Hepatitis can cause liver damage, while respiratory infections can damage the lungs.
Rabies
Rabies is a deadly viral disease that affects the central nervous system. Rabies vaccination is required by law in many places due to its public health significance.
Non-Core Vaccines
Bordetella Bronchiseptica
It is a highly contagious respiratory infection can spread rapidly in places where dogs crowd, like boarding facilities or dog parks. If your dog is frequently exposed to other dogs, this vaccine is recommended.
Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection that affects the liver and kidneys and could lead to organ failure. The vaccine is recommended for dogs in areas where the disease is prevalent.
Vaccination Schedule
The vaccination schedule for dogs typically includes:
| Age | Vaccination | Necessity |
| 6-8 Weeks | Distemper, Parvovirus, Adenovirus, Parainfluenza (DHPP) | Yes |
| 6-8 Weeks | Bordetella , Canine Influenza | If at risk |
| 10-12 Weeks | Second DHPP combination, Leptospirosis | Yes |
| 10-12 Weeks | Second dose of Bordetella and Canine Influenza | If at risk |
| 14-16 Weeks | Third DHPP combination and Rabies | Yes |
| 14-16 Weeks | 3rd dose of Bordetella and Canine Influenza | If at risk |
Annually or Every Three Years:
- DHPP combination vaccine
- Rabies vaccine
- And other non-core vaccines based on risk factors and veterinarian’s recommendations
Consult Your Veterinarian
Consulting your veterinarian is essential as every dog is unique, and their vaccination needs might vary based on factors such as breed, lifestyle, and geographic location.
Vaccinations are an integral part of responsible dog ownership and your dedication to their well-being will undoubtedly strengthen the bond you share!
