Your Dog’s Vaccination Schedule: What You Need to Know

Protecting your dog from preventable diseases is a cornerstone of responsible pet ownership. Vaccinations prime your dog’s immune system to fight infections, but navigating the schedule can be confusing. Here’s a science-backed breakdown:

Core vs. Non-Core Vaccines

Core Vaccines (Recommended for ALL dogs):

Rabies: Legally required in most regions. First dose at 12-16 weeks, booster at 1 year, then every 1-3 years.
Distemper, Parvovirus & Adenovirus (DHPP): Administered in a combination shot. Initial series starts at 6-8 weeks, with boosters every 2-4 weeks until 16 weeks. Boostered at 1 year, then every 3 years.
Leptospirosis (Increasingly considered core): Protects against bacteria in water/soil. Requires annual boostering.

Non-Core Vaccines (Based on lifestyle/risk):

Bordetella (Kennel Cough): Essential for boarding, daycare, or social dogs. Boosters every 6-12 months.
Lyme Disease: Recommended in tick-endemic areas. Annual booster.
Canine Influenza: Advised for dogs in high-contact environments. Annual booster.

Age-Based Vaccination Timeline

Puppies (6-16 weeks):
- Start DHPP at 6-8 weeks; repeat every 3-4 weeks until 16 weeks old.
- Rabies vaccine at 12-16 weeks.
- Leptospirosis & Bordetella as early as 8 weeks (2 doses, 3-4 weeks apart).
Adult Dogs (1-10 years):
- DHPP booster 1 year after puppy series, then every 3 years.
- Rabies booster 1 year after initial dose, then per local laws (1-3 years).
- Annual: Leptospirosis, Bordetella, Lyme, Influenza (if applicable).
Senior Dogs (10+ years):
- Continue core boosters (Rabies/DHPP) per veterinary advice.
- Assess necessity of non-core vaccines based on health/activity level.

Critical Considerations

Vet Consultation is Key: Regional disease prevalence, breed sensitivities (e.g., Ivermectin-sensitive breeds), and health status (e.g., immunosuppressed dogs) alter protocols.
Titer Testing: For core vaccines, blood tests can measure immunity levels to avoid over-vaccination.
Adverse Reactions: Monitor for lethargy, swelling, or vomiting post-vaccination. Report severe reactions immediately.
Legal Compliance: Rabies vaccination records must be current for travel, licensing, and emergencies.

Pro Tips for Owners

Keep Records: Use apps like PetDesk or a physical folder. Include date, vaccine type, brand, and lot number.
Travel Requirements: International travel (e.g., EU Pet Passport) may mandate specific vaccines 21+ days pre-trip.
Shelters/Boarding Facilities: Update Bordetella & Canine Influenza 1-2 weeks before admission.

Vaccines are medical interventions – never adopt a one-size-fits-all approach. Partner with your veterinarian to design a schedule tailored to your dog’s environment, age, and health. Consistent prevention ensures your companion enjoys a vibrant, disease-free life.