Like human babies, puppies are born with a degree of disease immunity that they get from their mother. However, that natural inborn immunity fades, and puppies need to be immunized against diseases like parvovirus, distemper and rabies. A series of vaccinations is needed for a pup to receive full protection.
As Early As Five Weeks
If your puppy has been at risk for parvovirus, it may get a vaccine for that disease as young as five weeks of age. Most puppies, however, will get their first shots at six weeks.
At Six Weeks
At six weeks, a typical puppy will get a combination vaccine that will protect against distemper, parvovirus, hepatitis and adenovirus cough. If the coronavirus is a factor in your area, your vet may suggest inoculating your pup against it as well.
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At Nine Weeks
Three weeks later, at age nine weeks, your pup should receive another vaccination. While the first shot has begun to stimulate the pup's immune system, the followup vaccinations will continue working with the immune system to produce the antibodies that will fight disease.
At 12 Weeks
At 12 weeks of age, your pup will get his or her first rabies shot. Although local law may vary concerning the age, rabies vaccinations are required in all states. Rabies is a deadly disease that is transmitted through the bite of an infected animal, and the vaccination of pets is a major factor in its successful control.
After Three Months
After your pup passes three months of age, it will have had the core shots that it needs. The noncore vaccines---optional shots that your vet may suggest---are Lyme disease, leptospirosis, and coronavirus. If your pup will be spending time in a kennel, tell your vet so he or she can administer a bordetella (kennel cough) vaccine.
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