How to Vaccinate a Puppy

The most important part of taking care of your new puppy is getting her vaccinated against possible diseases. Puppies that are not vaccinated are at a high risk for developing serious illnesses that can lead to long-term medical problems or even death. Read on to learn how to vaccinate a puppy.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Take your puppy to the vet at six weeks of age. Vaccinations for puppies typically begin when the dog is between six to eight weeks of age.

2. Start with the combination vaccine for puppies. Most combination shots contain antibodies that protect against distemper, hepatitis, adenovirus cough, parainfluenza and parvovirus.

3. Return the puppy to the vet every three to four weeks for additional booster shots. Your vet will give your pet at least two doses of the combination vaccine.

4. Set up an appointment for your puppy to receive the rabies vaccine. Most breeders and vets recommend the dog be at least six months old before they receive this vaccination.

5. Look for any reactions to the vaccines. If your dog has swelling or vomiting one to two days after receiving the vaccination, contact your vet.

Tips & Warnings

• The puppy should receive the combination vaccine by 16 weeks of age. Large breed puppies can usually receive the shots until 20 weeks of age.
• Vaccines that are given before six weeks of age are not as effective. The puppy may still develop the conditions that they have been vaccinated against.
• Leptospirosis is the component that is most likely to cause a reaction in your puppy. Some pet owners ask for it to be left out of the booster shot.