Puppy Shots Schedule: When Do Puppies Get Vaccinated?

Bringing home a puppy means taking on a lengthy to-do list. You have to introduce them to your family, provide safe toys, work on potty training, find the right puppy food, and get puppy vaccinations.

The last item on this list is typically the one most new pet parents have questions about.

• Does my puppy really need all these shots?
• What is the benefit of these shots?
• Will shots be painful?

These are valid questions, and with a little research, you’ll discover that shots for dogs are beneficial for both you and your pup.

What Are Puppy Shots?

What most people call “puppy shots,” doctors call vaccinations or boosters. When puppy owners hear “vaccination,” they typically think of the annual rabies shot their dogs get, but puppies actually need quite a few more vaccinations than that. Puppy vaccinations help dogs lead full and healthy lives.

Puppies need a series of vaccinations that will protect them from infectious diseases that can spread quickly from dog-to-dog or be picked up while outside playing.

Puppy Vaccination: Boosters Explained

Booster shots help your puppy build or “boost” their immune system. Typically, puppies get their first round of vaccinations between 6 and 8 weeks of age and every 3 to 4 weeks until around 20 weeks of age. Which vaccines your puppy receives at each appointment will vary depending on your dog’s size, local laws, and risk factors based on location and lifestyle.

Important Points About Puppy Vaccination

• Small and miniature-sized dogs may get fewer vaccines at each visit, resulting in more frequent visits.
• Some states or counties require rabies shots by a particular age, which can impact the protocol at your location.
• Risk factors such as boarding, grooming, and exposure to ticks can impact vaccine recommendations, which may include kennel cough, canine flu, or Lyme disease. Your veterinarian will help you determine which vaccines are best for your puppy depending on these aforementioned factors.
• Repeated vaccines are required to provide a puppy with the necessary time to respond to vaccination and build their own immunity while waiting for maternal antibodies to dissipate.

Keeping Disease Away – What Vaccines Do Puppies Need?

Each shot has been crafted to fight against a specific disease. The typical vaccine will read on your medical record as “DHPP,” “DHLPP,” or “DHLPPC.” These initials represent the first letter of the name of the disease (listed below). The DHPP vaccine is also commonly known as the DAPP vaccine.

Vaccines are commonly referred to as “core” or “noncore.”

Core Vaccines

Core vaccines are those strongly recommended or required to prevent disease and promote dog health.

• Canine Distemper (D). Distemper is a viral disease that viciously attacks a dog’s respiratory, nervous, and gastrointestinal (GI) systems. This disease is highly contagious and can be extremely difficult to treat. It can be spread through the air or shared water and food dishes from other dogs, skunks, racoons, and other infected animals. Symptoms of distemper include coughing, fever, eye and nasal discharge, vomiting, diarrhea, and abnormal neurologic signs, like inappropriate behavior, seizures, and/or paralysis. Distemper disease tends to be fatal in dogs. Vaccination starts at 6 to 8 weeks of age and is part of a series of vaccinations.
• Canine Hepatitis (H). Hepatitis is a viral disease that primarily attacks a dog’s liver and eyes. This disease can also lead to reproductive issues. Humans cannot contract hepatitis from dogs. Symptoms include fever, lethargy, anorexia, vomiting, and jaundice. Severe disease can lead to death.
• Leptospirosis (L). Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that, like hepatitis, attacks a dog’s liver and kidneys. However, unlike hepatitis, leptospirosis can be transmitted to humans from dogs. It is commonly spread by deer urine and rats. Some dogs are asymptomatic or exhibit signs like vomiting, diarrhea, fever, lethargy, jaundice, liver failure, and/or kidney failure. Your puppy’s DHLPP vaccine will protect them from this disease, and it is usually given at 12 weeks of age or older. It is highly reactive and associated with more reactions than most vaccines. The immunity doesn’t last as long as other vaccines and is occasionally bolstered mid-year.
• Canine Parainfluenza (P). Parainfluenza is a highly contagious, viral respiratory disease that can spread from dog to dog. It is one of the viruses that cause kennel cough. With the disease being so contagious, shelters and boarding facilities are particularly vulnerable.
• Parvovirus (P). Parvovirus, commonly referred to as “parvo,” is a serious, highly contagious, and often fatal disease that is especially dangerous for puppies. It attacks and suppresses a dog’s immune system, resulting in severe vomiting, bloody diarrhea, anorexia, and lethargy.
• Rabies Vaccine (RV). Rabies is the best-known required vaccination on this list. Almost everyone knows that pets need rabies vaccinations, and, in many locations, it is required by law. Rabies is another puppy disease that can be spread to a pet’s human counterparts. It spreads through wounds via the saliva of a rabid animal. Most animals can contract rabies, including bats, cats, rabbits, skunks, coyotes, and other small mammals. Rabies can be treated in humans when caught early enough, but it can be fatal in dogs. It’s very important that your dog is up-to-date on their rabies vaccinations in case they are ever attacked or bite someone. This vaccine is generally given between 12 and 20 weeks of age. We recommend consulting with your vet to make sure your shot schedule is compliant with state regulations.

Non-Core Vaccines

Non-core vaccines are those recommended based on risk factors, like location and exposure to other dogs at boarding and grooming facilities or dog parks.

• Coronavirus. There are many types of coronavirus, including the current COVID-19 strain, but that is not treated with this vaccine. This particular type of coronavirus causes gastrointestinal symptoms similar to parvovirus, specifically vomiting and diarrhea. It was a component of vaccines in the past, but is becoming less common. Coronavirus represents the last “C” in “DHLPPC”. Learn more about a different type of coronavirus (COVID-19) in dogs here.
• Bordetella Bronchiseptica. Commonly shortened to “Bordetella,” this is a contagious bacterial infection in dogs that causes kennel cough. Dogs who are boarded are more likely to contract kennel cough, but your pup can pick up this infection anywhere, even at the vet’s office, dog park, grooming shop, pet store, or from an infected neighbor’s dog. The bordetella vaccination greatly decreases your puppy’s chances of contracting kennel cough. When left untreated, this infection can develop into a serious upper respiratory issue capable of progressing to lung collapse or pneumonia. Injectable, oral, and nasal spray vaccines are available. Vaccination is frequently required at training classes, doggy daycare facilities, and boarding and grooming businesses. Signs of infection include coughing, which is difficult to stop, lethargy, and, in severe cases, pneumonia.
• Lyme Disease. Lyme disease, also known as borreliosis, is a disorder caused by the spirochete (Borrelia burgdorferi) spread by ticks. This can affect multiple organ systems and cause symptoms such as fever, lethargy, lameness, and anorexia. It is becoming more common in many areas of the country, but occurs most frequently on the east coast and in the Midwest. Prevention is focused on minimizing tick exposure and tick attachment. For endemic areas, year-round tick presentation is critical, and vaccination is recommended. Dogs can carry ticks into the home, which can attach to and infect humans.
• Canine Flu. Also called the Canine Influenza Virus (CIV) or H3N8 and H3N2, this is a highly contagious respiratory infection for dogs. Over the past 5 years, there have been periodic reports of outbreaks that have infected many dogs and closed veterinary clinics, shelters, boarding facilities, and grooming shops. The virus can cause a fever, cough, nasal discharge, and fatal pneumonia. A vaccine is available and often required by many boarding and grooming facilities.

What Is the Typical Puppy Vaccine Schedule?

The information noted above was a detailed description of the components of a vaccine and their intended purpose. However, what does a puppy really need and what is the typical puppy vaccine schedule?

Here is the bottom line on what shots your puppy needs:

• The MOST important vaccine components are Distemper, Hepatitis (Adenovirus), and Parvovirus. This represents the DHP or DAP in a vaccine’s initials.
• Young puppies begin their vaccine series between 6 to 8 weeks of age and receive a vaccine booster every 3 to 4 weeks apart until around 20 weeks of age. At some point, usually around 12 weeks or older, a rabies vaccine is given.
• Older puppies (over 16 weeks of age) who are just receiving their first vaccine will need that initial vaccine and a booster in 3 to 4 weeks. The rabies vaccine is also given at one of these appointments.
• Lyme, bordetella, and the canine flu vaccine may be recommended depending on your dog’s risk factors. Regardless of age, if given, the canine flu and Lyme vaccines are boostered in 3 – 4 weeks to achieve protection.
• The vaccines given at each appointment will vary depending on your dog’s size, local laws, and risk factors based on location and lifestyle. We recommend talking to your vet to best determine your dog’s yearly and lifelong vaccination schedule.

Puppy Vaccination Series Breakdown

• * Vaccine recommendations may vary depending on your location relative to risk of disease and other lifestyle factors that may impact the need for protection.
• ** A microchip is recommended and can be done at any age. Some shelters do it before a puppy leaves (usually at a very young age), while other vets do it during the spay/neuter procedure.
• *** Rabies vaccine may be given any time after 12 weeks in most locations.
• ****Leptospirosis protection is considered a core vaccine in some areas of the country.

What Do Puppy Vaccines Cost?

When it comes to the cost of vaccinations, each provider will be different. Some areas of the country are more expensive than others. Animal shelters and vaccine clinics in rural areas are generally less expensive. We recommend that you call a few of your local vets to ask for an itemized list that details the cost of each vaccination you are preparing to give your puppy. This way, you’ll be able to compare and contrast the fees that each provider charges.

Vaccine appointments often include an examination, which equates to an appointment fee, in addition to the cost of the vaccinations. Vaccine prices vary substantially.

The prices below are rough guidelines:

• DHPP vaccine – $12 to $45
• DHLPP vaccine – $15 to $54
• Rabies vaccine – $12 to $52
• Bordetella vaccine – $12 to $35
• Lyme vaccine – $18 to $50
• Canine flu vaccine (CIV)- $14 to $35

Because there are multiple vaccines required to protect your puppy, vaccinations are more expensive during the first year. Subsequent years require fewer vaccines and, therefore, are less expensive.

What Else Does a Puppy Need to Stay Healthy?

In addition to the core vaccines listed above, puppies need the following:

• Fecal checks need to be conducted to detect microscopic gastrointestinal parasites, like tapeworms, hookworms, roundworms, giardia, whipworms, and coccidia. Positive tests can indicate gastrointestinal parasitic disease, while negative results from a fecal sample can be inconclusive and misleading. Some parasites do not shed eggs consistently, so some samples may be negative even though the animal actually has a parasitic infection. Repeated fecal examinations may be necessary to detect some elusive parasites and two negative fecal exams are often recommended.
• Deworming medications should be given to treat worms. The most common deworming medication is called Strongid® T and given to newborn puppies at 2, 4, 6, and 8 weeks of age.
• Flea, tick, and heartworm prevention is critical to good puppy health. The particular coverage is dependent upon the area of the country. For example, in warmer climates, year-round protection is recommended. In cooler climates, spring, summer, and early fall coverage may be all that is required. The particular product recommendations may change as a dog ages, because certain products are approved for puppies, while others are specifically for dogs over 6 months.
• Spaying or neutering is recommended at approximately 6 months of age. The term “neuter” refers to the removal of an animal’s reproductive organs. In males, the correct term is “castration,” and for females, it is “spay” or “spaying.” Neutering is important to reduce the risk of unwanted puppies.
• Heartworm testing is recommended for puppies over the age of 6 months prior to starting prevention (if they have not yet been on preventative medication).
• Physical examinations by a licensed veterinarian are important to identify problems,, such as flea infestations, skin infections, heart murmurs, ear infections, dental problems, and much more.

Can You Use Feed-Store Vaccines?

Having a puppy can be expensive and the cost of vaccines, deworming, and flea, tick, and heartworm prevention can all add up. The question is – does where you get your vaccine matter?

According to most veterinarians, it does matter. Many vaccines provided by veterinarians are guaranteed. That means, if your pet is properly vaccinated and actually gets a particular disease, the costs may be covered.

Vaccines are delicate and improper storage can deactivate them. Veterinary clinics are careful in regard to how they store vaccines and monitor refrigeration temperature and expiration dates. Vaccines are shipped on ice or dry ice and most clinics have clear processes to preserve them.

State law requires some states to have thermometers in the refrigerators that store vaccines, as well as daily temperature monitoring and documentation. Some clinics have backup generators on their refrigerators to protect them from temperature changes.

While many feed stores try to do a good job, not all do. Veterinarians routinely treat puppies with diseases, such as parvovirus, that were vaccinated with feed-store vaccines. Feed store purchased and administered vaccines are better than nothing, but is that good enough for your puppy?

What Are Vaccine Titers?

Vaccine titers are blood tests that evaluate for the presence of antibodies that develop in response to a vaccine. They help determine protection (immunity) from a disease.

Some pet owners and veterinarians worry about over-vaccinating their pets. Titer tests can be performed in adult dogs to determine if they have protective antibody levels.

Low titers suggest poor protection, while high titers suggest good protection. There is no disadvantage of doing this other than the cost. This can be offset if a vaccine is not needed, but additive if an additional visit is needed for vaccination.

Titers are done in adult dogs that have already completed their series of vaccines. They cannot be done in puppies, because it is only with the vaccine series that they develop their immunity.

Learn more about vaccine titers here.

Cutting Costs and Keeping Your Puppy Healthy

When you bring a new puppy home, you promise to love and care for them for their entire life, which includes seeing to their medical needs. Vaccinations may seem expensive at the time, but treating any of the diseases that these vaccinations prevent can be a much greater expense. For example, parvovirus is completely preventable and prominent in unvaccinated puppies, and can cost thousands to treat. Outpatient treatment can cost $ 600 – $900 and hospitalized treatment can be $6,000 or more depending on the severity of the illness. When it comes to your puppy’s health, it’s better to be proactive as opposed to reactive.

One easy way to help cut down on the cost of vaccinations is through pet insurance. Some plans may cover illness and accidents only, while others cover the cost of vaccinations, fecal examinations, deworming, flea, tick, and heartworm preventions, spay or castration procedures, and even food.

Frequently Asked Questions About Puppy Shots

I’m not sure if my dog is up-to-date on shots, what should I do?

Check the vaccine schedule above or call your veterinarian to determine if your puppy is up-to-date or not. If your puppy is less than 6-months-old and has not had a shot for over 5 weeks, they are probably past due.

When should your puppy get their first shots?

Your new puppy should get their first shots between 6 and 8 weeks of age.

When can you take a puppy outside into public areas?

Based on the immune system of the puppy and vaccine physiology, a puppy is considered immune competent about 10 days to 2 weeks after their final vaccines, which should be around 20 to 22 weeks of age. However, socialization is very important to puppies and some experts believe that the risks of behavioral problems from not getting properly socialized may be more problematic than the risk of infectious disease.

There is low risk of infection if you socialize your puppy in select situations, such as with adult dogs that are properly vaccinated.

At what intervals do puppies get shots?

The proper interval between shots is three to four weeks.

How many parvo shots does a puppy need?

Parvo is a contagious disease and prevention is necessary. Puppies need a series of shots and how many parvo shots they get depends on their age at the point of their first shot. The very minimum number of vaccines is two after the age of 15 to 16 weeks. For example, a puppy that is 16 weeks would receive a shot that contains parvo at 16 and a booster at 20 weeks. A 6-week-old puppy may need 4 to 5 shots.

Are dog vaccines the same as cat vaccines?

No, vaccines for dogs are totally different from those created for cats.

Once my puppy is an adult dog, do they still need vaccines?

The immunity provided by vaccines doesn’t last forever. Booster vaccines are recommended.

How many sets of shots do puppies need?

Puppies generally need a series of shots that can begin as early as 8 weeks of age and repeat every 3 to 4 weeks until they are 20 weeks of age.

What is the 5-in-1 vaccine for puppies?

The 5-in-1 vaccine, also referred to as DHLPP, DHLPPC, DHPP, covers common puppy diseases including canine distemper virus, two types of adenovirus, and parvovirus.

Can I do puppy vaccines at home?

It is possible to do vaccines at home with something you purchase at a pet store or feed store. However, it is preferred to have an examination and vaccines provided by a veterinary hospital that can guarantee the quality of the products, ensure they are stored at the proper temperatures, and administer them properly.

What happens if I’m late with my puppy vaccines?

Call your veterinary hospital for their recommendations based on your dog’s age. If they are late, get them in for a booster as soon as possible. If it has been less than 6 weeks since the last vaccine, they may be able to get this puppy boostered, putting you back on schedule. More than six weeks since your last vaccine, and they may require another booster vaccine 3 to 4 weeks later to get caught up.

What is a puppy shot schedule chart?

• 6 – 8 weeks. Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus
• 10 – 12 weeks. Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus (DHPP)
• 14 – 16 weeks. Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus, Rabies (DHPP or DHLPP)
• 18 – 20 weeks. Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus (DHPP or DHLPP)

My puppy’s vaccine schedule is off. Will we have to start over?

If you missed vaccines for your puppies, starting over will depend on how late you are and the age of the puppy. If it has been more than 6 weeks, you may have to start over.

How many vaccinations does a puppy need?

This answer depends on the age of your puppy. If you adopt a puppy that is 8-weeks-old, they may need a total of 4 shots. If you adopt a puppy that is 16 weeks old, they may only need 2 shots.

What is the vaccination schedule for a 3-month-old puppy?

Generally, the schedule is as follows:

• 12 weeks. One shot, such as the Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, or Parvovirus (DHPP).
• 16 weeks. One shot for Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus, (DHPP or DHLPP) and one shot for rabies.*
• 20 weeks. Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, Parainfluenza, and Parvovirus (DHPP or DHLPP).

*Rabies may be given earlier or later.