There are a number of diseases that your puppy can contract if not properly vaccinated. Our Ankeny vets are here to tell you the puppy vaccine schedule that we recommend to protect your new fur baby.
The Importance Of Your Puppy's Shots Schedule
Dog vaccines provide the best way to protect your new puppy from a host of life-threatening diseases. Treatment for the illnesses your dog's vaccine protects against is likely to cost more than the cost of their shots.
Not All Dogs Need All Vaccines
In the Ankeny area, vaccines are recommended to help prevent bordetella, distemper, parvovirus, hepatitis, and rabies.
According to your veterinarian, the vaccines recommended for your dog will be based on your dog's age, where you live, and your dog's lifestyle.
Puppy Vaccination Schedule
Puppy Vaccination Schedule
6 - 8 Weeks
- *DHPP Shot 1
10 - 12 Weeks
- Booster: DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus)
- Bordetella (Optional)
- Leptospirosis (Optional)
14 - 16 Weeks
- Booster: DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus)
- Rabies
- Booster: Bordetella (Optional)
- Booster: Leptospirosis (Optional)
12 - 16 Months
- Final Booster: DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus)
- Rabies
- Final Booster: Bordetella (Optional)
- Final Booster: Leptospirosis (Optional)
Why Is Deworming Important For Puppies?
Puppies are often born with worms that get passed down from their mother, and they can also pick up parasites from their environment.
These parasites can cause a number of health issues, such as malnourishment and anemia, and in severe cases, they can be fatal.
Deworming your puppy will help eliminate any worms or parasites and prevent future infestations.
When Should You Deworm Your Puppy?
Deworming should begin when your puppy is between 2–3 weeks old and should be repeated every 2–3 weeks until they are 12 weeks old.
After that, deworming should occur every 3–6 months, depending on the risk factors in your pup's environment.
Some puppies may require more frequent deworming, so it's always a good idea to consult your vet to determine the best schedule for your pup.
How Is Deworming Done?
Deworming medication can come in many different forms, including tablets, liquid, or paste.
Your vet will recommend the best type of medication for your pup and will show you how it is administered.
It is very important to follow your vet's instructions when giving medication to your puppy to make sure the parasites are completely eliminated.
Possible Side Effects of Dog Vaccines
Some dogs and puppies can have adverse reactions to their shots. The sensitivity to an individual ingredient of a specific vaccine is typically caused by this.
Dogs of different breeds have different reactions to some ingredients. Some sheepdogs, such as German shepherds, are sensitive to individual vaccinations.
Your vet will skip any vaccines that contain ingredients that your dog may be sensitive to.
The Bottom Line on Dog Vaccines
Vaccinations are a key element of your dog's preventive health care. By taking your dog in for his/her shots early in life, then regularly as they move through adulthood, you give your furry friend the very best chance of living a long and healthy life.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.