What Vaccines Does My Dog Need?
A Dog Parent’s Guide to Vaccinations
Everyone wants their dog to be happy and healthy. One of the keys to protecting their health is to ensure they get their vaccinations on the proper schedule. This will help protect them from serious and potentially fatal diseases, including rabies, distemper and parvo.
With so much conflicting information, it can feel overwhelming to figure out which vaccines your dog requires and when they’re needed. Here are the recommended canine vaccinations based on a pet’s age, health and lifestyle.
Why Do Dogs Need Vaccines?
Vaccines are a preventative measure designed to help a dog’s body build immunity against specific diseases. A vaccine includes a weakened, dead or partial part of virus, bacterium or other germ, which teaches the animal’s immune system to fight the real germ later.
Some cities and states require vaccines to protect other animals in the community. This creates a herd immunity to prevent diseases from spreading.
The exact time to schedule vaccines ranges, but dogs generally receive their first vaccines at six to eight weeks old, with regular boosters annually.
Two Types of Vaccines for Dogs: Core and Non-Core
Core vaccines are recommended for all dogs, regardless of their age, breed or lifestyle. These are used to prevent highly contagious diseases.
Non-core vaccines are recommended based on a dog’s individual needs. Veterinarians will recommend these based on factors like the dog’s lifestyle, environment and breed.
Core Vaccines
- Rabies
- Leptospirosis
- DAPP (a combination vaccine against four common contagious viral diseases: distemper, adenovirus, parvovirus and parainfluenza)
Non-Core Vaccines
- Bordetella (kennel cough)
- Lyme Disease
- Canine Influenza
Are Vaccines Dangerous to My Dog?
While most vaccinations are safe and will not cause adverse reactions in dogs, negative side effects can occur. Soreness, malaise, mild nausea or vomiting, and a lump at the vaccination site are usually mild and temporary.
Serious problems like labored breathing, shock or collapse can occur, which will require immediate treatment.
Overall, the benefits of protecting your pet and others in your community from serious illness far outweigh the risks. A skilled veterinarian can adjust timing, dosage and choice of vaccines to suit your dog’s needs.