What is the recommended vaccination schedule for dogs?

Dog Vaccination Schedule: A Vet-Approved Timeline

Dogs should receive core vaccinations starting at 8 weeks of age, with boosters at 12 and 16 weeks, followed by a booster at 1 year, and then every 3 years thereafter for core vaccines. This schedule ensures optimal protection against life-threatening diseases while minimizing over-vaccination 1, 2.

Core Vaccines for Dogs

Core vaccines are essential for all dogs regardless of lifestyle or geographic location:

• Rabies: Required by law in most areas

  • First dose: 12-16 weeks of age
  • Booster: 1 year later
  • Subsequent boosters: Every 3 years (depending on vaccine type and local laws) 2, 3

• Distemper, Parvovirus, Canine Adenovirus (Hepatitis):

  • First dose: 8 weeks of age
  • Second dose: 12 weeks of age
  • Third dose: 16 weeks of age
  • Booster: 15 months of age
  • Subsequent boosters: Every 3 years 1, 4

Non-Core Vaccines

These vaccines are recommended based on individual risk factors:

• Bordetella (Kennel Cough): For dogs in boarding facilities, dog parks, or training classes

  • First dose: As early as 8 weeks
  • Booster: Annually or more frequently based on exposure risk 1

• Leptospirosis: For dogs with outdoor exposure, especially to wildlife or standing water

  • First dose: 8 weeks
  • Second dose: 12 weeks
  • Booster: Annually 1

• Lyme Disease: Only for dogs in endemic areas

  • First dose: 9 weeks or older
  • Second dose: 2-4 weeks later
  • Booster: Annually (only in endemic areas) 5

Special Considerations

Maternal Antibody Interference

The reason for multiple puppy vaccinations is that maternal antibodies can interfere with vaccine effectiveness. These antibodies gradually decrease between 8-16 weeks, which is why we vaccinate multiple times during this period to ensure protection 1.

Duration of Immunity

Research has demonstrated that core vaccines provide immunity for at least 3-4 years after the initial series and first annual booster 6, 4. This is why the current recommendation is triennial rather than annual boosters for core vaccines.

Overdue Vaccinations

If a dog is overdue for boosters, they should receive a single dose of the vaccine and then be placed back on the recommended schedule. There's no need to restart the entire series 2.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

1. Over-vaccination: Vaccinating more frequently than every 3 years for core vaccines provides no additional benefit and may increase risk of adverse reactions 5, 4.

2. Under-vaccination: Failing to complete the initial puppy series can leave dogs vulnerable during the critical early months.

3. Inappropriate non-core vaccines: Administering non-core vaccines to dogs with minimal risk exposure (e.g., Lyme vaccine in non-endemic areas) 5.

4. Vaccinating sick dogs: Always postpone vaccination if a dog is showing signs of illness, as the immune response may be compromised.

5. Ignoring lifestyle changes: A dog's vaccination needs may change if their environment or activities change (e.g., newly adopted dog entering boarding facility).

By following this vaccination schedule, you can ensure your dog receives optimal protection against preventable infectious diseases while minimizing unnecessary vaccinations.