Keeping your dog healthy starts with preventive measures, and vaccines are one of them. Canine vaccines are a safe, proven, and tested way to help your pup build immunity against dangerous diseases.
They help your dog’s immune system recognize and fight off viruses before they can cause serious illness. Here’s how our friends at Noble Vet Clinics explain it:
Each dog vaccine contains a small amount of the pathogen that has already been deactivated, weakened, and modified so that it does not cause illness. This serves as a practice enemy that gets the immune system’s attention.
Because of this, the immune system gets to know that specific pathogen, helping it create antibodies that recognize and neutralize the real enemy later on. After the initial response, your dog’s body produces memory cells that remember the invader.
This means that if your dog comes into contact with the pathogen, the body will be ready.
However, this memory can fade over time. That’s why booster shots are needed. Boosters remind the immune system of it, maintaining long-term protection.
What Vaccines Do Dogs Need?
Dogs require several types of vaccines. There are generally two main types of dog vaccinations: core and non-core.
Core Dog Vaccinations
These canine vaccines are must-haves when it comes to your dog’s protection. In most countries, these are required for pet ownership. These include:
- DA2PP Vaccine. This puppy vaccine protects against four dangerous viruses: canine distemper, adenovirus-2, parainfluenza, and parvovirus. These viruses can cause problems in dogs’ nervous, respiratory, and gastrointestinal systems. Generally, dogs should be given this vaccine at 6 to 8 weeks of age.
- Rabies Vaccine. This protects against the rabies virus, which causes neurological and behavioral problems. The virus primarily spreads through bites from infected animals and is always fatal. Because of its progression and the unavailability of a cure, the rabies vaccine for dogs is required for protection.
Non-Core Dog Vaccinations
Non-core vaccines depend on your dog’s lifestyle, habits, and environment.
- Leptospirosis Vaccine. The lepto vaccine for dogs protects against the common bacteria that can cause leptospirosis. These bacteria generally spread through contaminated water, soil, or the urine of infected animals, making it a must-have for active dogs who love to play outdoors.
- Bordetella Vaccine. It’s also known as the kennel cough vaccine, mainly because it protects against the leading cause of kennel cough, Bordetella bronchiseptica. This vaccine is recommended for dogs who frequent areas where dogs crowd, such as boarding facilities and grooming salons.
Puppy and Dog Vaccination Schedule
Building strong defences early on will help puppies grow into strong adults. Vets will generally recommend a specific schedule that fits best for your growing pup. Here’s a general puppy vaccination schedule:
| Puppy Vaccinations | ||
| Age | Core Vaccines | Non-Core Vaccines |
| 6 to 8 weeks | DA2PP | Bordetella |
| 10 to 12 weeks | DA2PP | Leptospirosis, Bordetella |
| 14 to 16 weeks | DA2PP, Rabies | Leptospirosis |
| Adult Dog Vaccinations | ||
| When to Give | Vaccines | |
| Every 3 Years | DA2PP | |
| Every 1 to 3 Years | Rabies | |
| Every Year | Leptospirosis | |
| Every 6 to 12 Months | Bordetella | |
The first vaccine puppies should receive is the DA2PP. This should be given at the age of 6 to 8 weeks, followed by additional shots every 2 to 4 weeks until they reach 16 weeks of age. After the initial doses, the next booster shot should be given a year later. Routine DA2PP shots can be given every 3 years.
The first dose of the rabies vaccine for dogs should be given at 14 to 16 weeks of age. However, this can also vary depending on health and requirements. The next shot will be given a year later. Subsequent shots will be administered every 1 to 3 years.
The Bordetella vaccine can be given at the age of 6 to 8 weeks, followed by an additional shot 3 to 4 weeks later. Subsequent boosters should be given every 6 to 12 months, depending on your pup’s environment.
For leptospirosis, the initial dose is generally given at the age of 10 to 12 weeks, followed by an additional shot 4 weeks later. Subsequent doses will be given annually.
Common Vaccine Reactions in Dogs
After your dog receives a vaccine, it’s normal to see some side effects. These reactions are generally mild and short-lived. These include:
- Lethargy. You may notice this when your dog sleeps, rests, and avoids games more than usual. This is a common response that should be resolved within 24 to 48 hours.
- Mild Fever. A slight increase in body temperature can occur as your dog’s immune system starts producing antibodies. Your dog may feel warm to the touch but act normal.
- Soreness at the Injection Site. Sometimes, you might notice slight swelling or a small bump on the injection site. This generally goes away after a few days.
- Reduced Appetite. Dogs who have just gotten a dose may not feel like eating their meals. Make sure they remain hydrated during this time and keep food close.
- Sneezing or Coughing. In cases where intranasal vaccines are given, dogs may sneeze or cough for a day or two.
- Severe Symptoms. While rare, more serious symptoms such as vomiting, rash, difficulty breathing, or fainting can occur. Contact the vets immediately if these happen.
Conclusion
Dog vaccinations are an essential part of your best friend’s routine care. They’re one of the most effective ways to prevent serious, often untreatable diseases. Because when it comes to your best friend’s health, prevention is better than a cure.
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