Why Dog Vaccination is Important
Vaccinations protect dogs from deadly, contagious diseases. They:
- Boost immunity
- Prevent disease outbreaks
- Protect other animals and humans (some diseases are zoonotic)
Core vs Non-Core Vaccines
| Type | Vaccine | Protects Against | Required for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Core | DHPP (or DA2PP) | Distemper, Hepatitis (Adenovirus), Parvovirus, Parainfluenza | All dogs |
| Core | Rabies | Rabies (fatal, zoonotic) | Legally required worldwide |
| Non-Core | Bordetella (Kennel Cough) | Bordetella bronchiseptica (respiratory disease) | Boarding, dog parks |
| Non-Core | Leptospirosis | Leptospira bacteria (kidney/liver damage) | Outdoor/active dogs |
| Non-Core | Lyme Disease | Borrelia burgdorferi (via ticks) | High-tick regions |
| Non-Core | Canine Influenza | Dog flu (H3N8, H3N2 strains) | Social dogs/travelers |
Dog Vaccination Schedule by Age
| Age | Vaccine | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 6–8 weeks | DHPP (1st dose) | Start core vaccination series |
| 10–12 weeks | DHPP (2nd dose), Bordetella | Optional: Leptospirosis, Lyme (based on risk) |
| 14–16 weeks | DHPP (3rd dose), Rabies (1st dose) | Rabies legally required in most countries |
| 12–16 months | DHPP booster, Rabies booster | Final puppy boosters |
| Adult (1–7 yrs) | DHPP: Every 1–3 yrs Rabies: Every 1–3 yrs |
Based on vet advice/test results Law varies by region |
| Senior (7+ yrs) | As recommended by vet | Based on health condition |
Stick to your vet’s guidance for the exact schedule and region-specific laws.
Tips for Safe Vaccination
- Always get vaccinations from a licensed veterinarian.
- Monitor for side effects (e.g., lethargy, swelling at injection site).
- Keep a vaccination record (digital or printed).
- Avoid stressful activities 24 hours post-vaccination.
- For puppies, avoid social exposure until vaccinations are complete.
Printable Dog Vaccination Record Sheet
| Date | Vaccine Given | Next Due | Vet/Clinic Name | Notes |
|---|
Commitment, Firmness, but kindness.
About Author :
Do you have any problems with your pet? Then why not send your problem to DAVID THE DOGMAN. David is a Canine Behaviorist who works and lives in Marbella, Spain. Tel/Fax (00345) 2883388. His web site is located at: http://www.thedogman.net.
David has his own radio and TV shows, and writes for many newspapers and magazines. David has been working with dogs for many years and started his career in Israel, working on the Border Police.
He has been involved in all forms of training, including air sea rescue, air scent work, and has trained dogs for finding drugs. David has devoted the past 10 years to studying behaviour and the very passive approach. He does not use choke chains, check chains, or any form of aggression.
David The Dogman is available for private consultations in your home, for further details telephone; Tel: (+95) 2883388