Dogs need a series of vaccinations to protect them from various infectious diseases. These vaccines are generally divided into core vaccines (required for all dogs) and non-core (lifestyle) vaccines (given based on the dog's risk factors such as location and lifestyle).

Core Vaccines (Essential for All Dogs)

All dogs should receive these vaccines regardless of where they live or their lifestyle:

• Canine Distemper Virus : A serious, often fatal viral disease affecting respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems.
• Canine Adenovirus-2 (Hepatitis) : Protects against infectious canine hepatitis (adenovirus-1) and respiratory illness caused by adenovirus-2.
• Canine Parvovirus : Causes severe vomiting and diarrhea, often fatal if untreated.
• Rabies Virus : A fatal disease transmissible to humans; legally required in many areas.

These core vaccines are often combined into one shot known as DA2PP, DHPP, or DAPP, which covers distemper, adenovirus, parvovirus, and parainfluenza

Non-Core (Lifestyle) Vaccines

These are recommended based on geographic location, lifestyle, and exposure risks:

• Bordetella bronchiseptica and Canine Parainfluenza Virus (Kennel Cough) : Recommended for dogs that go to kennels, daycare, or have respiratory issues.
• Leptospira (Leptospirosis) : Recommended in areas where the bacteria is common, often spread by rodents.
• Borrelia burgdorferi (Lyme Disease) : Recommended in tick-prevalent areas.
• Canine Influenza Virus (H3N8 and H3N2 strains) : Recommended when the virus is circulating locally.
• Crotalus atrox (Western Diamondback Rattlesnake) : Recommended for dogs in rattlesnake-inhabited areas

Vaccination Schedule Overview

• Puppies : Begin vaccinations at 6–8 weeks, with boosters every 2–4 weeks until at least 16 weeks old. Rabies is usually given at or after 14–16 weeks depending on local laws.
• Adult Dogs : Core vaccines are generally boosted every 1 to 3 years depending on the vaccine and vet recommendation. Non-core vaccines may require annual boosters.
• Annual Vet Check : Even if vaccines are given every three years, an annual health exam is recommended

Summary Table of Core Vaccines

Vaccine| Disease Prevented| Frequency
---|---|---
Distemper| Viral disease affecting multiple systems| Initial series + boosters every 1-3 years
Adenovirus-2 (Hepatitis)| Infectious canine hepatitis and respiratory illness| Same as distemper
Parvovirus| Severe gastrointestinal disease| Same as distemper
Rabies| Fatal viral disease transmissible to humans| Initial + boosters every 1-3 years (legally required)

Lifestyle Vaccines Examples

• Bordetella (Kennel Cough)
• Leptospirosis
• Lyme Disease
• Canine Influenza
• Rattlesnake vaccine (in certain regions)

Consult your veterinarian to determine the appropriate vaccines and schedule based on your dog's health, lifestyle, and local disease risks