Puppies need a series of vaccinations starting at about 6 to 8 weeks of age. The initial vaccinations are given every 2 to 4 weeks until the puppy is around 16 weeks old to ensure proper immunity as maternal antibodies wane. A typical schedule includes:
- First shots at 6-8 weeks (usually core vaccines like distemper, parvovirus, adenovirus)
- Subsequent boosters every 2-4 weeks (e.g., at 10-12 weeks, 14-16 weeks)
- Rabies vaccine typically given around 12-16 weeks, depending on local laws
- A booster at about 6 or 12 months of age
After the first year, dogs generally need booster vaccinations every 1 to 3 years depending on the vaccine and lifestyle factors. Core vaccines like DHPP (distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, parainfluenza) are usually given every 1-2 years, while rabies boosters are given every 1-3 years as required by law. Non-core vaccines (e.g., Bordetella, Lyme disease, leptospirosis) may be recommended based on risk factors and lifestyle
. In summary:
- Puppy shots start at 6-8 weeks
- Given every 2-4 weeks until about 16 weeks old
- Booster at 6-12 months
- Then boosters every 1-3 years
Always consult your veterinarian to tailor the vaccination schedule to your puppy’s needs and local regulations.
