Bringing home a new puppy is an exciting time filled with cuddles, playtime, and plenty of learning. One of the most important responsibilities as a new pet parent is ensuring your puppy gets the proper vaccinations. These vaccines protect against serious, sometimes life-threatening diseases and set the foundation for a lifetime of good health.
Why Are Puppy Vaccinations Important?
Puppies are especially vulnerable to infections because their immune systems are still developing. Vaccinations provide crucial protection by stimulating their immune systems to recognize and fight specific pathogens. Without these vaccines, your puppy could be at risk of diseases such as parvovirus, distemper, and rabies.
The Puppy Vaccine Schedule
Your puppy should begin their vaccination series between 6 to 8 weeks of age. This is the ideal time to start building their immunity against potentially life-threatening diseases. From there, the core vaccine series typically continues in 3- to 4-week intervals until your puppy reaches about 16 weeks old.
During the 6-8 week mark, your puppy should receive their first round of core vaccines, which generally includes protection against distemper, parvovirus, and adenovirus (hepatitis). These are essential vaccines that help safeguard your puppy during their most vulnerable early weeks.
At 10-12 weeks, your puppy will receive the second round of core vaccines. At this stage, your veterinarian may also recommend optional vaccines based on your puppy’s lifestyle and environment. These may include Bordetella (to prevent kennel cough), leptospirosis, and canine influenza. The leptospirosis vaccine is particularly important for dogs that may be exposed to standing water, wildlife, or livestock, as the disease can be transmitted through contaminated water or soil.
The final round of core vaccines is typically administered between 14-16 weeks of age. This visit usually includes the rabies vaccine, which is required by law in most areas, as well as additional boosters for leptospirosis and other recommended vaccines.
Finally, between 12-16 months of age, your dog should receive booster shots to reinforce immunity developed during the puppy series. Staying on track with these vaccinations gives your puppy the best protection as they grow into a healthy adult dog.
Additional Considerations
Every puppy is different, and your veterinarian may adjust the vaccine schedule based on your pet’s breed, health, environment, and lifestyle. Puppies that will be boarding, attending daycare, or frequently visiting dog parks may need additional vaccinations for protection against contagious illnesses.
Schedule Your Puppy’s First Wellness Exam Today
Missing or delaying vaccines can leave your puppy vulnerable during a critical development window. Following a consistent vaccination schedule ensures your pet is protected during their early weeks and sets them up for a healthier future.
At Montana Veterinary Hospital & Boarding, we’re here to help you give your puppy the best start in life. Contact our office in Bozeman, Montana, by calling (406) 586-2019 to schedule your puppy’s first wellness exam and begin their vaccination series.
