Puppy Immunizations: 11 Essential Shots for Strong Puppies

Welcoming a puppy is exciting—and keeping them healthy is a top priority. The right shots protect your pup from serious diseases and build a strong immune foundation. Whether you’re new to dog care or have years of experience, vaccine schedules can feel confusing. This simple puppy shot guide breaks it down step by step. You’ll learn which vaccines your puppy needs, when to give them, and why they matter. By the end, you’ll know how to keep your puppy safe and happy from day one. Let’s get your puppy immunizations on track!

Which Shots Do Puppies Need?

Visiting the vet for a series of puppy shots may feel like a hassle, but these vaccines protect your pup from serious, even deadly, diseases. With so many vaccine names and illness risks, it’s easy to feel lost. Here’s a clear overview of the essential shots your puppy needs—and the optional ones for extra protection—so you know exactly how to keep your new friend safe.

1. Bordetella Bronchiseptica

Bordetella is a highly contagious bacterium that causes heavy coughing fits, gagging, and sometimes vomiting. In rare cases, it can spark seizures or even death. This bug is the main cause of kennel cough. Vaccines come as shots or nasal sprays. If you plan to board your puppy, sign up for group classes, or use doggie daycare, most places will ask for proof of this vaccine.

2. Canine Distemper

Distemper is a dangerous virus that attacks a dog’s lungs, stomach, and nerves. It spreads through the air when an infected animal coughs or sneezes and by sharing bowls or toys. Signs include fever, eye and nose discharge, coughing, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and even paralysis. There’s no cure. Vets offer support with fluids, medicines, and care to help your puppy’s immune system fight the virus. If your dog recovers, it may still carry and spread the virus for months.

3. Canine Hepatitis

Canine hepatitis is a viral infection that can be very serious for your dog. It affects several organs, including the liver, kidneys, spleen, lungs, and even the eyes. This virus is different from the hepatitis that humans can get, so it’s specific to dogs.

Symptoms can vary, with mild signs like a slight fever or congestion in the nose. However, more severe symptoms include vomiting, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), stomach swelling, and pain around the liver. While many dogs with mild symptoms can recover, the severe form of the disease can be deadly.

Sadly, there is no cure for canine hepatitis, but your vet can help manage the symptoms and provide supportive care to help your dog feel better. Keeping up with your puppy’s vaccinations is the best way to protect them from this dangerous disease.

4. Canine Parainfluenza

Canine parainfluenza is a contagious virus that can cause kennel cough, a common respiratory issue in dogs. It spreads quickly in places where dogs gather, like shelters, dog parks, and boarding facilities. Signs of infection include a dry cough, nasal discharge, fever, low energy, and loss of appetite. While most dogs recover with rest and plenty of fluids, some may need antibiotics if a secondary infection develops. Puppies and older dogs are more vulnerable. Vaccination is the best way to protect your dog, as it’s often included in combination shots given to puppies. Keeping your dog away from crowded areas and practicing good hygiene can also help prevent the spread of the virus. If your dog shows symptoms of kennel cough, be sure to visit the vet for the right treatment and to stop the virus from spreading to other dogs.

5. Canine Coronavirus

Canine coronavirus affects a dog’s stomach and intestines, causing symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. It’s different from the virus that causes COVID-19 in people, and COVID-19 doesn’t pose a health risk to dogs. Most dogs recover with rest and hydration. In severe cases, a vet may help manage symptoms, but no medication can directly kill the virus.

6. Heartworm

Heartworm disease is a serious condition caused by parasites living in a dog’s heart and lungs. While there’s no vaccine for heartworm, it can be prevented with medication your vet will prescribe, starting when your puppy is around 12 to 16 weeks old. Heartworms can cause severe damage, and the disease is transmitted by mosquito bites, not by other dogs.

7. Kennel Cough

Kennel cough is a respiratory illness that causes coughing and other symptoms like nasal discharge and lethargy. It’s caused by viruses and bacteria and is highly contagious, especially in places with many dogs. Treatment usually involves rest and hydration, and your vet may recommend cough suppressants for comfort. It’s important to keep dogs with kennel cough away from others to prevent spreading it.

8. Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection that can affect dogs and humans. It can be found in soil and water worldwide. Symptoms include fever, vomiting, and weakness. It’s treatable with antibiotics, but early treatment is important. Vaccination is available for dogs at higher risk, such as those in areas with standing water.

9. Lyme Disease

Lyme disease is caused by ticks and can affect your dog’s joints, kidneys, and heart. Symptoms may include limping, fever, and loss of appetite. Fortunately, Lyme disease can be prevented by keeping your dog on tick prevention. Vaccination is also available, especially if you live in areas where Lyme disease is common.

10. Parvovirus

Parvovirus is a highly contagious virus that mainly affects puppies. It causes vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration, which can be fatal if not treated quickly. There is no cure, but with prompt veterinary care, many dogs survive. The best prevention is vaccination, which is vital for puppies before they come into contact with other dogs.

11. Rabies

Rabies is a fatal viral disease spread through the bite of an infected animal. It affects the nervous system and can cause severe symptoms like paralysis and hallucinations. Rabies is preventable with vaccination, which is required by law in many areas. Make sure your dog is up to date on rabies shots to protect their health and the safety of others.

Talk to your vet about the right vaccinations for your puppy. They’ll help guide you on which are essential and which are optional based on your dog’s lifestyle. Keeping up with your puppy’s health care routine ensures they stay safe, happy, and healthy!

Puppy Vaccination Schedule

Every puppy’s vaccination schedule is unique, and it’s important to know that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all plan. Where you live, your dog’s lifestyle, and their individual health risks all play a role in deciding which vaccines are necessary. Not every dog needs every shot, so it’s a good idea to work closely with your vet to determine the best plan for your puppy. Be sure to discuss vaccinations during your regular vet visits.

That being said, here’s a general guideline for the first year of your puppy’s vaccination schedule.

Puppy’s Age	Recommended Vaccinations	Optional Vaccinations
6 — 8 weeks	Distemper, parvovirus	Bordetella
10 — 12 weeks	DHPP (vaccines for distemper, adenovirus [hepatitis], parainfluenza, and parvovirus)	Influenza, Leptospirosis, Bordetella, Lyme disease per lifestyle as recommended by veterinarian
16 — 18 weeks	DHPP, rabies	Influenza, Lyme disease, Leptospirosis, Bordetella per lifestyle
12 — 16 months	DHPP, rabies	Coronavirus, Leptospirosis, Bordetella, Lyme disease
Every 1 — 2 years	DHPP	Influenza, Coronavirus, Leptospirosis, Bordetella, Lyme disease per lifestyle
Every 1 — 3 years	Rabies (as required by law)	none

How Much Do Puppy Vaccinations Cost?

The cost of puppy vaccinations can vary depending on a few factors, such as your location and the specific vaccines your puppy needs. On average, the cost of puppy vaccinations for the first year ranges from $75 to $400. This price includes the core vaccines, which are typically administered in a series of three shots at 6, 12, and 16 weeks of age.

Core Vaccines

Core vaccines are essential for all puppies and typically include:

• DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza): Usually around $20–$45 per dose.
• Rabies: Costs about $15–$30, and is often required by law.

Non-Core Vaccines

Non-core vaccines are given based on your puppy’s lifestyle and health risks:

• Bordetella (Kennel Cough): Typically $15–$40.
• Leptospirosis: Usually $25–$50.
• Canine Influenza: Around $35–$85.
• Lyme Disease: Costs about $35–$55.

These vaccines are sometimes administered in combination packages, which can help lower the cost.

Additional Costs

In addition to the cost of vaccinations, you might have other fees to consider, such as:

• Veterinary Exam Fees: Typically $35–$85 per visit.
• Deworming: Around $20–$50 during the first year.
• Fecal Exams: Usually $20–$40.

Some veterinary clinics offer bundled packages that include exams and vaccinations at a discounted rate.

Tips to Save on Vaccination Costs

• Adopt from Shelters: Many shelters include initial vaccinations as part of the adoption fee.
• Low-Cost Clinics: Look for community clinics or veterinary schools that offer discounted services.
• Pet Insurance: Some pet insurance plans cover vaccinations, so it’s worth checking with providers.

Investing in vaccinations is a key part of keeping your puppy healthy and preventing serious, costly diseases. Always consult with your vet to determine the best vaccination plan for your puppy’s needs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, keeping your puppy up-to-date on their immunizations is one of the most important steps in ensuring a long, healthy life. A well-planned vaccination schedule, tailored to your puppy’s specific needs, can protect them from a range of serious and often preventable diseases. While the exact vaccines may vary depending on your location and your dog’s lifestyle, working closely with your veterinarian will help you navigate the process with confidence. Remember, starting vaccinations early and following through with booster shots can make a significant difference in your puppy’s health and well-being. With the right care and protection, you’re giving your puppy the best chance to grow into a happy, healthy adult dog.

FAQ: Puppy Shots and Vaccinations