🐶 Complete Guide to Dog Vaccinations: Schedule, Types & Tips
Vaccinations are a crucial part of keeping your dog healthy and protected against life-threatening diseases. Whether you're a new dog parent or have had pets for years, understanding the right vaccination schedule is essential to ensure your pup lives a long, healthy life.
🧪 Why Are Vaccinations Important for Dogs?
Vaccines help build immunity in dogs by exposing them to safe versions of dangerous viruses and bacteria. This prepares their immune system to fight off infections effectively. Regular vaccinations can:
- Prevent fatal diseases like rabies and distemper
- Reduce the spread of contagious illnesses to other dogs (and sometimes humans)
- Ensure a long, healthy life for your pet
📋 Core vs. Non-Core Vaccines
- Core Vaccines: Essential for all dogs regardless of location or lifestyle.
- Non-Core Vaccines: Recommended based on a dog’s lifestyle, environment, or risk of exposure.
✅ Core Vaccines Include:
- Rabies – Fatal and transmissible to humans (required by law in most places)
- Canine Distemper – Affects respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems
- Canine Parvovirus – Highly contagious and often deadly
- Canine Adenovirus (Hepatitis) – Affects the liver and eyes
💉 Non-Core Vaccines (Given as Needed):
- Leptospirosis – Spread through contaminated water
- Bordetella bronchiseptica (Kennel Cough) – Common in dogs that socialize or go to grooming/daycare
- Canine Influenza – Dog flu virus, common in outbreaks
- Lyme Disease – Spread by ticks
📅 Dog Vaccination Schedule (Puppies & Adults)
🐾 Puppy Vaccination Schedule (6 to 16 weeks):
| Age | Vaccine |
|---|---|
| 6–8 weeks | DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus) |
| 9–11 weeks | DHPP (2nd shot), Leptospirosis (optional) |
| 12–14 weeks | DHPP (3rd shot), Rabies |
| 16 weeks | Final DHPP + optional vaccines like Bordetella or Lyme |
🐕 Adult Dog Vaccination (Annually or Every 3 Years):
- Rabies: Every 1–3 years depending on state law
- DHPP: Booster every 1–3 years
- Leptospirosis, Bordetella: Annually if risk persists
📍 Indian Pet Vaccination Card Example
In India, most vets issue a physical vaccination card with stamps for each dose and booster. Ensure the vet includes:
- Date of vaccination
- Type and brand of vaccine
- Next due date
- Vet’s signature and stamp
💡 Post-Vaccination Care Tips
- Some dogs may feel sleepy or slightly sore—this is normal
- Watch for allergic reactions (vomiting, swelling, difficulty breathing) and contact the vet immediately if seen
- Avoid strenuous activity for 24–48 hours
📝 Tips for Pet Parents
- Never skip or delay core vaccinations
- Keep a record of all vaccinations and reminders
- Ask your vet for titer tests if you're unsure about repeat shots
- Use pet health tracking apps like Tails Connect to stay on schedule
📲 Track Vaccinations with Tails Connect
Stay on top of your dog’s health with Tails Connect:
- ✔️ Set reminders for upcoming vaccines
- ✔️ Store vet records securely
- ✔️ Discover trusted pet clinics and services nearby
Download Tails Connect:
🐕 Final Thoughts
Vaccinating your dog is not just a health responsibility—it’s an act of love. Following a proper schedule can protect your furry companion from many painful and deadly illnesses. Make sure you work with a trusted vet and keep your dog’s vaccination history up to date.
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