What shots do dogs and puppies need?
Vaccines play an important role in helping your dog to live a long and healthy life.
Within the first 12 months of their life puppies require several rounds of vaccines, whereas adult dogs typically require booster shots just once a year, or in some cases once every 3 years.
Not all dogs will require all of the available vaccines. Many vaccines are given to dogs only when they face an increased risk of contracting a particular illness. Your vet will recommend the best vaccines for your dog based on your pup's unique needs and lifestyle.
That said, this basic vaccine schedule from our Huntsville vets can help you to understand when your dog should see a vet for their next round of vaccinations.
Puppy Shot Schedule
6 - 8 Weeks
- *DHPP Shot 1
- Bordatella
- Leptospira
- Lyme
- Influenza Virus-H3N8
- Influenza Virus-H3N2
10 - 12 Weeks
- Influenza Virus-H3N8
- Influenza Virus-H3N2
- DHPP Shot 2
- Leptospira
- Lyme
- Rabies
14 - 16 Weeks
- DHPP Shot 3
Adult Dog Vaccination Schedule
Annually
- Bordatella
- Leptospira
- Lyme
- Rabies
- Influenza Virus-H3N8
- Influenza Virus-H3N2
Every 3 Years
- DHPP Booster
- Rabies
*DHPP: this vaccine protects against Distemper, Adenovirus, Parainfluenza, and Parvovirus.
Age Restrictions
Very young puppies and senior dogs with compromised immune systems are not eligible for all shots. Talk to your vet to find out more about vaccines for your dog.
The Importance of Vaccinations
Our vets believe that getting your dog vaccinated is an essential part of your pet's annual preventive health care. By getting your dog vaccinated early in life, and regularly throughout their lifetime, you help to provide your pet with their best chance of living a long, and healthy life.
Vaccines can protect your dog against a number of serious, often fatal diseases such as rabies, hepatitis, and parvovirus. When it comes to caring for your dog, prevention is always better than treatment.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.