It’s also important to know when your puppy should get their shots and how to make their experience at the vet a positive one. Here is everything you need to know about puppy shots and your first trip to the vet:
When Puppies Should Get Their Shots
The puppy shot schedule is based on your dog’s age, not its breed. The basic timeline looks like this:
- 6-8 weeks old: First set of shots
- 10-12 weeks old: Second set of shots (given in two doses)
- 14-16 weeks old: Third set of shots (in three doses)
What Shots Your Puppy Should Get
Shots help prevent the spread of disease in the community, which is why it’s so important to ensure your dog receives all their vaccines according to schedule.
Following the above schedule for vaccines, your dog should get the following shots at the appropriate age:
6 to 8 weeks: Distemper and Parainfluenza (DHLPP)
There are two different types of vaccines: distemper and parainfluenza (DHLPP). The combination shot protects against these three diseases with one dose at 6-8 weeks old. After this initial round of vaccinations, they will need a few additional boosters.
10 to 12 Weeks: DHPP, Bordetella, and Leptospirosis (DAPP or DAPPL)
DAPP stands for “distemper, adenovirus parvovirus and parvo.” The DAPP shot is usually given at 10 to 12 weeks of age. It’s a combination vaccine that protects your puppy against those three major diseases.
14 to 16 Weeks: DHPP, Bordetella, and Rabies
- DHPP is a combination vaccine that protects against distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, and parvovirus.
- Bordetella is a bacteria that causes kennel cough (aka dog flu).
- Rabies is a virus that causes neurological disease in dogs and other mammals.
Side Effects of Shots for Puppies
Puppies can get diarrhea, fever, and rash after getting their shots. These side effects are not severe and will go away in a few days. If you have concerns about the health or behavior of your puppy after getting shots, contact your veterinarian immediately.
How to Make Your Vet Visit Less Stressful on Your New Puppy
Here’s what you can do a new puppy parent to make your first trip to the vet a success and cause as little stress as possible to your newest family member:
- Bring along a toy or treat that your puppy loves–it will help keep her calm during the visit and make her more likely to cooperate with whatever instructions the vet gives.
- Take your dog for a walk before visiting the vet, so they are tired and more cooperative.
- If you can, bring your new puppy’s favorite person to help calm them down – this might be you or another family member.
No matter what you do to help ease the stress on your pup as they visit the vet, know that you’re doing the right and responsible thing by keeping up with your pup’s vaccination schedule. You will help stop the spread of disease and protect your pup from harmful viruses well into the future.
