Rabies Vaccination for Puppies Under 3 Months
Yes, vaccination is still necessary if a dog bites you, even if the dog is below 3 months of age, because puppies can potentially carry rabies and the standard recommendation is to vaccinate dogs at 3 months of age—meaning unvaccinated puppies under this age pose a theoretical risk. 1
Standard Vaccination Age for Dogs
All dogs should be vaccinated against rabies at 3 months of age, with revaccination 1 year later, regardless of the age at initial vaccination. 1
Within 1 month after primary vaccination, peak rabies antibody titers are reached and the animal can be considered immunized, but this requires at least 30 days post-vaccination. 1
An animal is considered currently vaccinated and immunized only if it was vaccinated at least 30 days previously and all vaccinations were administered in accordance with the Compendium guidelines. 1
Why Puppies Under 3 Months Still Matter
Puppies below 3 months of age are not yet eligible for rabies vaccination, meaning they cannot be considered protected or immunized against rabies. 1
While maternal antibodies may provide some passive immunity in very young puppies, this protection is variable and unreliable for rabies prevention. 2
The 3-month minimum age for rabies vaccination is based on immunologic maturity and vaccine licensing standards, not on the absence of rabies risk in younger animals. 1
Post-Exposure Management Considerations
If bitten by a puppy under 3 months of age, the animal's vaccination status is by definition inadequate since it cannot have been properly vaccinated yet. 1
Local health departments should be consulted regarding the current regional rabies status and appropriate post-exposure prophylaxis recommendations. 1
The puppy's exposure history, source, and health status should be carefully evaluated, as stray or wild-caught animals pose higher risk. 1
Important Caveats
Rabies vaccination should only be administered by or under direct supervision of a veterinarian to ensure accountability and proper documentation. 1
Regardless of age at initial vaccination, a second rabies vaccination must be given 1 year later to complete the primary immunization series. 1
The dramatic reduction in canine rabies cases in the United States (from 6,949 in 1947 to 111-153 in the 1990s) is directly attributable to effective vaccination programs starting at 3 months of age. 1