New Puppy Vaccination Schedule

Congratulations! You got a new puppy, and that’s an exciting event, for sure! While we know you’re looking forward to all the playtime, this post is a simple, friendly reminder that vaccination is essential to your puppy’s health. 

All puppies need a series of vaccinations to protect them from all-too-common canine diseases. The vaccination schedule may vary depending on factors that include the puppy’s age, breed, and local disease prevalence; however, we’ve put together the typical puppy vaccination schedule for your convenience. Feel free to print it out and take it with you to your vet. 

Since we know you want what’s best for your new furry friend, we recommend contacting your local veterinarian to ensure your puppy gets placed on the right schedule for him or her.

8-Week-Old Puppy Vaccinations

At eight weeks old, your puppy will need the following vaccinations:

• Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, and Parvovirus (DHPP) Vaccine: This is often the first core vaccination given to puppies. It protects against canine distemper, canine hepatitis, canine parvovirus, and canine parainfluenza, all of which are serious viruses that can be fatal.
• Bordetella (Kennel Cough) Vaccine: This vaccine is recommended for all puppies and adult dogs frequently in contact with other dogs or will be boarded, groomed, or attend doggy daycare.

12-Week-Old Puppy Vaccinations

At 12 weeks old, your puppy will need the following vaccinations:

• DHPP Booster: The puppy receives a second dose of the DHPP vaccine to reinforce protection.
• Leptospirosis Vaccination: Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection transmitted through contaminated wildlife urine. They can get it from drinking out of standing water or contacting infected soil. Leptospirosis is zoonotic, meaning that if your puppy contracts it, it can be transmitted to you.
• +/- Influenza Vaccine: If your puppy will be boarded, groomed, or exposed to other dogs via a dog park or doggy daycare, this vaccination is recommended.

16-Week-Old Puppy Vaccinations

At 16 weeks old, your puppy will need the following vaccinations:

• DHPP Booster: The puppy gets a third dose of the DHPP vaccine.
• Leptospirosis Booster: The puppy gets a second dose of the leptospirosis vaccine.
• Rabies Vaccination: Rabies is a serious condition affecting the brain and central nervous system. This vaccination is a requirement and will protect your puppy if bitten by a wild animal that carries the disease. 
• +/- Influenza Booster: The puppy gets a second dose of the +/- influenza vaccine.

9-Month-Old Puppy Test

Although this trip to your local veterinarian isn’t for a vaccination, it’s just as important, and at nine months old, your puppy will need the following test:

• First Heartworm Test: Heartworm disease can be treated effectively if caught early, but it can be difficult to kill or remove worms that have matured in the heart and lungs, making early heartworm testing important for your new pup. These tests help identify heartworm infections before they become symptoms. Learn more about just how crucial heartworm prevention is here.

Visit Our Fulton County Animal Hospital for Your Pet’s Health

Our Alpharetta veterinary team offers vaccinations and numerous other veterinary services to enhance your pet’s quality of life. We’d love the opportunity to consult with you about your puppy’s needs. 

We’ll review your pet’s health, lifestyle, and local disease risks when designing the recommended vaccine schedule, and we’ll provide guidance on when to start heartworm prevention, flea and tick control, and other preventive healthcare measures. 

We understand that it’s easy to get caught up in the fun and games of having a new puppy, but vaccinations and regular veterinary visits are crucial to ensure your new buddy’s health and well-being throughout their life.

Contact us to learn more about keeping your puppy safe and happy!