Free puppy vaccination schedule by age Topical Map Generator

Puppies typically receive their first core vaccine (DHPP) at 6–8 weeks of age, followed by booster doses every 2–4 weeks until at least 14–16 weeks old. Rabies is usually given at 12–16 weeks depending on local law and the vaccine product; your veterinarian will adjust timing based on shelter history, maternal antibodies, and local regulations.

Core vaccines for all puppies are DHPP (distemper, hepatitis/adenovirus, parvovirus, parainfluenza) and rabies, because of their severity and public‑health impact. Non‑core vaccines (bordetella, leptospirosis, Lyme, canine influenza) are recommended based on geographic risk, lifestyle, and exposure—your vet will assess which are appropriate.

A common schedule is DHPP at 6–8 weeks, repeat DHPP at 10–12 weeks and 14–16 weeks, with rabies administered at 12–16 weeks; many clinics then give a combined booster at one year. Exact timing depends on vaccine product, maternal antibody status, and local laws—never mix schedules between clinics without consulting your vet.

After the initial puppy series and the 1‑year booster, many core vaccines (like DHPP) move to a 3‑year interval depending on the product and titer results, while rabies schedules are governed by local law and vaccine label (1 or 3 years). Non‑core vaccine intervals vary—bordetella and leptospirosis often require annual revaccination.

Titer testing can confirm protective antibody levels for some diseases (e.g., distemper, parvovirus) and is a valid tool to avoid unnecessary revaccination for certain dogs, but it does not replace legally required rabies vaccines in most jurisdictions. Work with your vet to interpret titers and decide when titer‑based protocols are appropriate for your dog.

Mild reactions—transient soreness, lethargy, low‑grade fever, or decreased appetite—occur within 24–48 hours and usually resolve on their own. Seek immediate veterinary care if your dog shows facial swelling, severe vomiting or diarrhea, difficulty breathing, collapse, or any signs of anaphylaxis within minutes to hours after vaccination.

If a puppy is acutely ill (fever, severe diarrhea, vomiting) or significantly underweight, most vets will postpone non‑urgent vaccines until the puppy stabilizes to ensure an effective immune response and reduce risk. For shelter or high‑risk environments where infectious disease exposure is imminent, vets sometimes use modified protocols—discuss risks and benefits with your clinician.

Certain small breeds and some purebreds have a slightly higher documented rate of immediate post‑vaccine reactions, and brachycephalic breeds may need extra monitoring after injectable vaccines; however, these risks are still rare compared with the benefits. If your dog is a breed with known sensitivities or has a history of reactions, your vet may recommend alternative schedules, split dosing, or pre‑treatment protocols.

Most kennels and daycares require proof of up‑to‑date core vaccines (DHPP) and bordetella; boarding and international travel nearly always require a current rabies certificate. International travel may also require microchip identification, an international health certificate, and in some countries a rabies titer or waiting period—check destination and airline rules well in advance.

Compare full‑service vet clinic pricing with accredited low‑cost community clinics and municipal vaccination drives, ask about bundled puppy vaccine packages, and verify vaccine brands/products used rather than only price. Avoid skipping core vaccines to save money—consider spreading costs over visits and ask your vet about payment plans or discounted wellness packages.