Dog Vaccination Schedule
"Dog vaccination schedule refers to the use of required dog vaccines which are administered to healthy dogs in order to improve the immune response to a variety of diseases. Said another way, to protect against often fatal diseases. Though, it is hard to define a precise canine vaccine schedule due to reasons of certain immunization principles and state laws, in most parts of the world, a dog vaccination schedule is formulated on the basis of “core” and “non-core” vaccines. Core vaccines are those which are compulsory for every dog, while non-core vaccines are administered only in certain areas and on the basis of epidemiological importance of a disease. Core vaccines included in a dog vaccine schedule are for Canine Distemper, Parvovirus, Hepatitis and Rabies. On the other hand, non-core vaccines differ with respect to geography and epidemiology of a certain disease. Unfortunately, the phenomenon of immunization requires more precise studies to make it safest for companion animals in order to reduce adverse effects. Studies are also under way on how to boost immunity naturally, using supplements and natural remedies along with regular vaccines. ."
Core and Non-Core Dog Vaccines:
Unfortunately, the exact phenomenon of immunization is yet to be understood completely. It is impossible for researchers to formulate a precise dog vaccine schedule because of physiological complications, mode of action, the varying immune status of each dog, side effects and difficulties in administration techniques. Some state laws and regulations in different parts of the world are another hurdle in defining an effective dog vaccine schedule.
Researchers have managed to formulate a classification scheme for different vaccines, on the basis of their importance and epidemiological distribution of different diseases (e.g; geography). This classification includes, “core” and “non-core” dog vaccines, which should be administered according to local laws and the presence of certain risks in the environment. The goal is to individualize the dog vaccination schedule for each patient.
Dog vaccination schedule recommendations are based on the American Animal Hospital Association guide. You can download the latest AAHA Dog Vaccine 2006 guidelines here.
Even though puppies can be vaccinated at 6 weeks of age, most veterinarians wait until age 7 to 8 weeks.
Core Required Dog Vaccines:
In a dog vaccine schedule, core dog vaccines are considered compulsory for each and every dog. These vaccines are administered for immunity against Canine Distemper, Canine Hepatitis, Canine Parvovirus and Rabies.
Vaccination against Canine Distemper, Canine Hepatitis and Canine Parvovirus is considered part of the core dog vaccination schedule, because of their vast epidemiological importance. On the other hand, immunization against Rabies is because of local laws or legislation in most parts of the world. A Vaccine that combines the core required dog vaccines is called DA2PP or DHPP (depending on the combination of vaccines - stands for distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus and parainfluenza).
List of Core Required Dog Vaccines:
- Canine Parvovirus
- Canine Distemper
- Canine Adenovirus 2/Canine Infectious Hepatitis
- Rabies
In general, the dog vaccination schedule is:
- Puppies 8, 12 and 16 weeks
- Repeat 1 year later
- Then repeat every 3 years
Core Dog Vaccination Schedule by Vaccine Type
| Dog Vaccine | Initial Puppy Vaccination Schedule <16 weeks) | Initial Adult Dog Vaccination Schedule >16 weeks (Boosters) |
| Canine Parvovirus | All puppies should receive a minimum of 3 doses between the ages of 6 and 16 weeks administered at intervals of 3 to 4 weeks (e.g.;; at 6,10 and 14 weeks or 8, 12 and 16 weeks). The final dose should be administered at 14 to 16 weeks of age | Two doses, 3-4 weeks apart. One dose is considered protective and acceptable |
| Canine Distemper | All puppies should receive a minimum of 3 doses between the ages of 6 and 16 weeks administered at intervals of 3 to 4 weeks (e.g.;; at 6,10 and 14 weeks or 8, 12 and 16 weeks). The final dose should be administered at 14 to 16 weeks of age | Two doses, 3-4 weeks apart. One dose is considered protective and acceptable |
| Canine Adenovirus-2 and Infectious Hepatitis | All puppies should receive a minimum of 3 doses between the ages of 6 and 16 weeks administered at intervals of 3 to 4 weeks (e.g.;; at 6,10 and 14 weeks or 8, 12 and 16 weeks). The final dose should be administered at 14 to 16 weeks of age | Two doses, 3-4 weeks apart. One dose is considered protective and acceptable |
| Rabies | Administer one dose as early as 3 months of age. A 3 year rabies vaccine may be substituted as an alternative to a 1 year rabies vaccine for initial and subsequent dose. | Administer in a single dose. Where authorized by local/state statutes a 3 year rabies vaccine may be substituted as an alternative to a 1 year rabies vaccine for initial and subsequent doses. |
Non-Core Dog Vaccines:
The other part of possibly determining a precise dog vaccination schedule are non-core dog vaccines. Dogs may be immunized against different diseases on the basis of their potential exposure, epidemiological importance of disease, local laws, breed etc. but non-core vaccines are not mandatory for every dog.
The requirements for immunization with non-core dog vaccines differ on the basis of factors such as breed, geography and epidemiology of a particular disease. Non-core vaccines become a mandatory part of a dog vaccination schedule only if exposure to certain disease is predicted.
List of Non Core Vaccines
The list of non-core dog vaccines may vary, but in most parts of the world dogs are usually immunized for:
- Canine Parainfluenza Virus (Kennel Cough)
- Clinical symptoms of canine influenza include a cough, nasal discharge, conjunctivitis and fever. It can progress to pneumonia and rarely death. Current hot spots where vaccine is used include New York City, Philadelphia, New Jersey, Colorado, especially Denver, and parts of South Florida. Vaccinate dogs that are exposed to race tracks, to greyhounds, or ones that are traveling in these areas.Vaccine reportedly reduces the duration and intensity of clinical signs and protects against the formation and severity of lung lesions. Give 2 doses to at risk dogs after 6 weeks of age 2-4 weeks apart.
- Lyme disease (Borrella Burgdorferi)
- Initial dose may be given at 9 or 12 weeks of age with a second dose at 2 to 4 weeks later. Initially adults get two doses, 2 - 4 weeks apart.
- Distemper/Measles
- Puppies receive one dose only between 4 and 12 weeks of age. Never indicated for dogs older than 12 weeks of age.
- Respiratory form of Canine Adenovirus-2
- Leptospirosis (not recommended for toy breeds unless risk is high)
- Given to dogs that are at higher risk. Given with vaccines for icterhemorrhagica, canicola, pomona and grippotyphosa. Dogs area vaccinated at 12 and 16 weeks with annual booster. Dogs considered candidates for vaccine include hunting dogs 1 month before hunting season.
- Canine Corona Virus (dogs older than 11 to 12 weeks not at risk for disease)
- AAHA guidelines indicate that the low incidence of this virus does not justify its use in most cases. It is primarily used for at risk dogs such as those that are breeding and dogs living in shelters. There is a higher chance of side effects if given with the leptospirosis vaccine.
- Giardia
- Vaccine is not recommended. There is insufficient evidence to warrant the use of this vaccine.
- Bordetella
- Given to at risk dogs 7 days before exposure. Immune response lasts 4 to 6 months.
- Dog Rattlesnake Vaccine
- Protects dogs against rattlesnake venom.
- Puppies get 2 doses 1 month apart. Given to puppies as young as 4 months.
- Adult dosage is 2 doses, 1 month apart
- Porphyromonas (dog periodontal disease)
- New vaccine that is used to prevent bacteria from causing periodontal disease in dogs (denticanis, gulae, salivosa).
Dog Vaccination Schedule:
There are still reservations related to the classification of dog vaccines as core and non-core, but for the time being it is the most authentic and widely followed criteria for defining immunization programs throughout the world. Once, according to geographical location and epidemiological importance, core vaccines are identified, which is more effectively done by local immunization regulatory authorities and practicing veterinarians, a possible dog vaccine schedule is required to be defined.
This too varies for each dog on the basis of breed and maternal immunity transmitted to a new born puppy. After birth, most dogs do not require immediate immunization since maternal antibodies are transferred, thus to enhance early maternal immunity, pregnant female dogs can be vaccinated in late pregnancy.
| Age | Vaccination Combination | Additional |
| 5 - 9 Weeks | 5 Way (Canine Distemper, Parvovirus, Canine Hepatitis, Para-Influenza and Adenovirus) | Kennel Cough, Corona Virus (If predicted) |
| 12 – 16 Weeks | 7 Way (Canine Distemper, Adenovirus, Parvovirus, Canine Hepatitis, Leptospirosis and Para-Influenza)Rabies (By Law) | Kennel Cough and Corona Virus (If predicted) |
| Annual Boosters for Adults | 7 Way (Canine Distemper, Adenovirus, Parvovirus, Canine Hepatitis, Leptospirosis and Para-Influenza) – Varies with immune status.Rabies (By Law) | Kennel Cough, Lyme Disease and Corona Virus |
Complications and Side Effects of
Required Dog Vaccinations:
Unfortunately, even after extreme care, research and legislation there are several complications and side effects associated with canine vaccination or immunization. Complications and severity of side effects varies from dog to dog, geography, epidemiology of a disease, failure due to mishandling and by not following protocols of vaccination.
Thus, it is always recommended that dogs should only be vaccinated after conducting sensitivity tests, confirming current immune status and by carefully following the manufacturer's directions.
Supplementation can help in reducing adverse effects of immunization, and in most cases, natural remedies have been proven very effective to reduce stress and minor symptoms caused by vaccination.
Natural Remedy Recommendations to Reduce Stress and Symptoms of Dog Vaccination
| Goal | Natural Remedy |
| Reduce stress caused by Vaccinations | PetCalm |
| Reduce mild reactions to Canine Distemper Vaccine and mild infections | ViPro Plus |
| Reduce mild reactions to Parvovirus Vaccine and mild infections | Parvo-K |
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References for Dog Vaccination Schedule:
Merck Veterinary Manual (Merck & Co.)
William R. Fenner, “Quick Reference to Veterinary Medicine” (Wiley-Blackwell, 2000)
American Animal Hospital Association
