When your puppy is born, he already has some antibodies to help fight disease. As the puppy nurses for the first time, he receives even more antibodies that help protect him from disease. While these antibodies are present in the puppy̵7;s body, vaccinating the puppy will not have any effect. Because of this, it̵7;s best to consult with your veterinarian about exactly when to begin vaccines and what kinds of vaccines to give. Recommendations vary from litter to litter. However, general guidelines start puppy shots at 6 weeks of age and include a series of core inoculations.
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Core Vaccines
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Core vaccines, those that are generally recommended for every puppy, are given every three to four weeks until the puppy has is enough and has developed enough immunity that the odds of her contracting an infectious disease are low. Core vaccines for puppies include inoculations against parvovirus, canine distemper virus, canine adenovirus and parainfluenza. A year after the puppy shots are complete, your puppy will need a booster vaccine.
Rabies
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Rabies vaccination is required by law in all states and by many local governments. Puppies are generally vaccinated against rabies when they are between 16 and 24 weeks of age. A booster shot is given one year later. A three-year rabies vaccine is available at some veterinary hospitals following the puppy̵7;s first booster shot. However the three-year vaccines isn̵7;t recognized as meeting the law in some jurisdictions so you should check local ordinances to ensure the three-year vaccine would be legally acceptable.
Non-Core Vaccinations
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Vaccinations against other illnesses are available, however they are not recommended for every dog. Your veterinarian will advise you as to whether the risk of your puppy developing the particular illness outweighs the potential for side effects from the non-core vaccines. These vaccines include those against Bordetella, coronavirus, Lyme and giardia.
Side Effects
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While the dangers of not vaccinating generally far outweighs the risk of side effects from vaccinating a puppy, it̵7;s a good idea to be aware of signs that your puppy may be having a reaction to an inoculation. Pain and swelling at the injection site is a common side effect and of little concern to the puppy̵7;s long-term health. A low-grade fever and decreased appetite may also develop for a couple of days. Anaphylactic shock is uncommon, though it does occur. Symptoms include seizure, severe diarrhea, shock and vomiting. This is an emergency situation and your puppy should be taken to a veterinarian immediately.
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