Adding a new member to the family is such an exciting time. And just like any family member, you care about their health and wellness. Puppies need vaccines, just like humans. To keep your new family member safe, here’s what you should know about first-year puppy vaccines. 

Why Does My Puppy Need a Vaccine?

Vaccines are important for puppies because they help to protect them from certain diseases and viruses. Core vaccines help prevent the more common illnesses, and there are additional immunizations you can provide your pet depending on factors such as the area you live. 

What Are the Core First-Year Puppy Vaccines?

The core vaccines (DHPP) are given around 10 to 12 weeks, 16 to 18 weeks, and 12 to 16 months. Distemper and parvovirus are the first given, at around six weeks of age.

DHPP stands for:

• Distemper 
• Hepatitis (Adenovirus-2)
• Parainfluenza 
• Parvovirus 

When purchasing a puppy, you will be given the medical records of shots already received. Bring these to your first vet appointment so your vet will know which boosters are needed. 

Sometimes, your veterinarian may alter the vaccine schedule or recommend additional vaccines, so following their guidance is best.

What Else Do I Need to Know About First-Year Puppy Vaccines?

In addition to the core puppy vaccines, there are other vaccines that will benefit your pooch. Plus, some facilities like boarding or grooming can require additional immunizations.

Rabies

Rabies isn’t included in the core vaccines because it should not be given any earlier than three months of age. But, it is still a very important vaccine for all dogs due to rabies being a fatal disease that can be transferred to pet owners.    

Bordetella (Kennel Cough)

Bordetella vaccines are often required at pet boarding facilities, groomers, and other areas you might take your pet to help prevent the spread of this highly contagious bacteria that causes respiratory problems.

Leptospirosis

This virus is contagious through dirt and water and can also infect humans.

Lyme

If you and your puppy will be spending time outdoors, this vaccine can protect them if they’re bitten by a tick.  

Now That You Know All About First-Year Puppy Vaccines, It’s Time to Choose Your Pooch! Come to Love My Puppy for the Best Selection of Small Breed Puppies in Boca Raton

Puppy shopping? Pick the perfect pup for you here at Love My Puppy, Boca Raton’s premier pet shop!

Stop in today to learn more about our available small-breed dogs. Whether you need a hypoallergenic breed, a pooch that can handle apartment living, or a highly intelligent pup that can be trained for whatever you need, or you have other needs in a puppy, we have what you’re looking for!