Beginning your puppy’s vaccination schedule when they are 6-8 weeks old is essential for protecting them against several viruses, but did you know that your dog will need an annual booster vaccination to maintain this protection?
Dog vaccination schedule
Depending on the brand of vaccines used, the below is a general vaccination schedule for your dog:
Puppy
- 6-8 weeks – First puppy vaccination
- 10-12 weeks – Booster vaccination
- 14-16 weeks – Final puppy vaccination
Your puppy must have at least 2 vaccinations to generate enough immunity to fully protect them. These booster vaccinations must be 3-4 weeks apart and one of them must be after the puppy is 12 weeks old as this is the age at which the immunity from the puppy’s mother has disappeared. 10-14 days after your puppy’s last booster vaccination, usually when they are 14-16 weeks old, it will be safe for you to take your puppy out in public areas.
Adult dog
- 12 months after last puppy vaccination – First adult booster
- Ongoing – Your vet will recommend an ongoing vaccination schedule for your dog based on their lifestyle and environment
One year after receiving the first course of vaccinations, your dog will need to have a booster vaccination. These will be given annually for the rest of your dog’s life to keep them fully protected. Some newer vaccines do not require annual booster vaccinations; your vet will tell you when they are next due.
It is important to consult your local Greencross Vets about your dog’s long-term vaccine program following their 12 month annual booster. Your vet will determine the most suitable vaccine schedule and ensure that it is tailored to your dog’s environment and lifestyle.
What vaccines do dogs need?
Core vaccines
All dogs must receive the following three core vaccines in order for them to be protected from these severe, life-threatening diseases.
Canine distemper
This highly contagious and often fatal disease is closely related to the human measles virus. It affects the brain, respiratory tract and spinal cord, so puppies and young dogs are particularly vulnerable as their immune system is still developing
Canine hepatitis
This fast-acting infectious disease is caused by the canine adenovirus. It is frequently fatal in puppies. It first attacks the liver, and then travels to the kidneys, spleen, lungs and eyes
Canine parvovirus
This is one of the most common fatal infectious diseases for dogs and causes profuse vomiting and bloody diarrhoea. As the virus can survive in the environment for more than 12 months, it does not require direct contact between dogs in order to be transmitted
Common non-core vaccines
Your Greencross Vet will recommend which non-core vaccinations your dog should receive based on their location, environment and lifestyle.
Parainfluenza virus
Commonly referred to as ‘canine cough’, this is a highly contagious respiratory infection that causes a dry, hacking cough. While it is not fatal, this virus can lead to other more serious infections
Bordetella bronchiseptica
A bacteria that can cause canine cough, this is a contagious respiratory disease with the main symptom being a harsh cough. Puppies and senior dogs are most at risk as they have weaker immune systems. In severe cases, this illness can lead to conditions like pneumonia
For more information on how to protect your pet and keep up to date with your dog’s vaccinations, visit your local Greencross Vets.
