Bringing a new puppy into your home is a heartwarming experience filled with cuddles, playtime, and new responsibilities. One of the most essential responsibilities is ensuring your puppy receives the appropriate vaccinations, deworming treatments, and regular health checks. These steps are crucial in setting a foundation for a healthy and happy life.

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about puppy vaccinations, deworming, and veterinary health checks. We’ll include schedules, what to expect at each stage, and the importance of each step.

 

Why Puppy Vaccinations Matter

Vaccinations are vital in protecting your puppy from deadly diseases. Puppies are especially vulnerable to infections because their immune systems are still developing. Vaccinations provide immunity against common and potentially fatal illnesses.

Key Benefits of Puppy Vaccinations:

 

    • Protect against serious diseases like Parvovirus, Distemper, and Rabies

    • Prevent the spread of contagious diseases to other pets and humans

    • Support long-term health and immunity

    • Required for travel, boarding, and doggy daycares

Core vs. Non-Core Vaccinations

Core Vaccines are recommended for all puppies:

 

    • Canine Parvovirus (CPV)

    • Canine Distemper Virus (CDV)

    • Canine Adenovirus (CAV-1 and CAV-2)

    • Rabies

Non-Core Vaccines depend on your puppy’s lifestyle and environment:

 

    • Bordetella bronchiseptica (kennel cough)

    • Leptospirosis

    • Lyme Disease

    • Canine Influenza Virus

Consult your veterinarian to determine which non-core vaccines your puppy needs.

 

Puppy Vaccination Schedule

Puppy Age Vaccine Notes
6–8 weeks DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus) First round
10–12 weeks DHPP + Bordetella (optional) Second round
12–16 weeks DHPP + Rabies Final core series
16–18 weeks Leptospirosis, Lyme, or Influenza (as needed) Lifestyle dependent
Annually Booster shots Maintain immunity

Note: Your vet might adjust the schedule based on your puppy’s health and risk factors.

Puppies are often born with intestinal worms, and it’s common for them to pick up parasites from their environment. Deworming removes these parasites and prevents long-term health issues.

Common Intestinal Parasites in Puppies:

 

    • Roundworms

    • Hookworms

    • Whipworms

    • Tapeworms

    • Giardia

Signs of Worm Infestation:

 

    • Diarrhea

    • Vomiting

    • Bloated abdomen

    • Weight loss

    • Visible worms in feces

Deworming Schedule for Puppies

Puppy Age Deworming Treatment
2 weeks First deworming
4, 6, 8 weeks Repeat treatments every 2 weeks
12 weeks and beyond Monthly until 6 months of age
After 6 months Every 3 months or as advised by vet

Make sure to clean up your puppy’s waste immediately and keep play areas hygienic to prevent re-infestation.

 

Routine Health Checks for Puppies

Veterinary health checks are not just for vaccinations. Routine exams help catch health issues early and ensure your puppy is growing properly.

What to Expect During a Health Check:

 

    • Full physical exam (ears, eyes, teeth, skin, joints)

    • Weight and growth assessment

    • Heart and lung evaluation

    • Discussion of diet and behavior

    • Fecal exam for parasites

    • Microchipping (if not done)

Recommended Health Check Schedule:

 

    • Initial vet visit within first week of adoption

    • Follow-up visits every 3–4 weeks until 16 weeks old

    • Bi-annual or annual checks after puppyhood

Nutrition and Supplements to Support Immunity

A healthy diet supports a puppy’s immune system, growth, and vaccine response.

Essential Nutrients for Puppies:

 

    • High-quality protein (for muscle development)

    • DHA (brain development)

    • Calcium and phosphorus (bone growth)

    • Antioxidants and vitamins (immune support)

Optional Supplements:

 

    • Omega-3 fatty acids

    • Probiotics

    • Multivitamins (only with vet approval)

Always feed age-appropriate, vet-recommended puppy food and avoid overfeeding.

 

Socialization and Safety Post-Vaccination

While vaccinations offer protection, puppies are not fully immune until after their final booster series. During this period, socialization should be carefully managed.

Tips for Safe Socialization:

 

    • Avoid dog parks or high-traffic pet areas until fully vaccinated

    • Arrange playdates with vaccinated, healthy dogs

    • Expose to new sounds, surfaces, and gentle handling at home

Potential Side Effects of Vaccinations

Most puppies tolerate vaccinations well. Mild side effects may include:

 

    • Sleepiness

    • Mild fever

    • Soreness at injection site

    • Temporary loss of appetite

Rare but serious reactions include:

 

    • Vomiting

    • Facial swelling

    • Difficulty breathing

    • Hives

Contact your vet immediately if you notice severe symptoms.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I delay vaccinations or skip them?
Delaying or skipping vaccinations leaves your puppy vulnerable to fatal diseases. Always follow the vet-recommended schedule.

2. What if I adopt an older puppy?
Older puppies without a known vaccination history should start the vaccine series from scratch under your vet’s guidance.

3. How do I prevent worms between treatments?
Maintain good hygiene, regular flea control, and avoid letting your puppy eat feces or contaminated soil.

4. Can I give vaccines at home?
Some over-the-counter vaccines exist, but it’s best to have a licensed veterinarian administer them to ensure proper handling and dosing.

 

Final Thoughts

Your puppy’s health starts with proactive care. By following the correct vaccination, deworming, and health check schedule, you’re giving your furry friend the best start in life. Partnering with a trusted vet, feeding nutritious food, and staying alert to signs of illness ensures your puppy grows into a healthy, happy dog.

For more expert tips on raising healthy pets, explore our blog at PawsAndKitten.com/blog