What are the most essential vaccines for puppies?
Written by
Hoang Long
Reviewed by
Prof. Henry Webster, Ph.D.Keep your puppy safe from deadly diseases by ensuring they have received their core vaccines. Core vaccines are a must-have suite of protection for every puppy, regardless of the kind of life they lead. These core immunizations form essential defenses when your puppy is young and helpless. Never miss them.
Rabies Vaccine
- Legally required in all 50 states by 16 weeks maximum
- Protects against fatal viral disease transmitted through bites
- Provides 1-3 years of protection depending on state laws
DHP/DHPP Combination
- Essential protection against distemper, hepatitis, and parvovirus
- Distemper causes fatal neurological damage in puppies
- Parvovirus has 90% mortality rate in unvaccinated puppies
Leptospirosis Vaccine
- Crucial for puppies exposed to water or soil contamination
- Zoonotic disease that spreads from animals to humans
- Urban transmission rates increased 150% in recent years
Rabies vaccination, which is occasionally considered a legal necessity as well as a health protection, is required in all states. The law is enforced by fines of from $100 to $500. I have known heartbreaking cases of treatment by helpless owners, of unvaccinated puppies who have bitten another dog or human being. Always carry your rabies certificates with you.
The combination of DHP/DHPP is designed to avoid the deadliest puppy diseases. Distemper affects the nervous system, whereas parvovirus has a profound impact on the gastrointestinal system. Hepatitis also affects the liver. These vaccines have been responsible for significant reductions in mortality since their introduction.
Even for puppies in urban environments, protection against leptospirosis is critical. I have treated young puppies that contracted leptospirosis from puddles on sidewalks. This is a zoonotic disease transmitted by the contamination of rat urine. Vaccination prevents this disease from being transmitted to family members.
Start at 6-8 weeks of age and follow your veterinarian's vaccination schedule. Core vaccines require additional vaccinations at specific intervals to provide full effectiveness. Your veterinarian can create a vaccination schedule tailored to your particular needs, taking into account the diseases prevalent in your area and your breed.
Read the full article: Puppy Vaccination Timeline: Complete Guide
