Introduction
Bringing a new puppy home is incredibly exciting, but it also comes with a lot of responsibility. One of the absolute most important things you will do in your dog’s first year of life is protect them against deadly, highly contagious diseases like Parvovirus, Distemper, and Rabies.
The Standard First-Year Vaccination Timeline
Note: This is a standard guideline. Your veterinarian may adjust this slightly based on your puppy’s health, breed, and local outbreak risks.
- 6 to 8 Weeks Old:
- DHPPi (1st Dose): Protects against Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, and Parainfluenza. (Some vets start with a “Puppy DP” shot at 4-6 weeks if the pup is high-risk).
- 10 to 12 Weeks Old:
- DHPPi (2nd Dose / Booster 1)
- Leptospirosis (1st Dose): Often given as a combined shot (DHPPi + L).
- 14 to 16 Weeks Old:
- DHPPi (3rd Dose / Booster 2)
- Leptospirosis (2nd Dose / Booster)
- Anti-Rabies Vaccine (ARV – 1st Dose): This is a legal requirement in India.
The Annual Boosters Once the puppy series is complete, your dog is protected for their first year. After that, they will need annual booster shots for both the DHPPi+L combination and Rabies to maintain their immunity for the rest of their life.
Never miss a due date
Keep your dog’s medical records organized and get instant reminders for upcoming booster shots.
Post-Vaccination Care: What to Expect Just like humans, puppies can feel a little under the weather after getting their shots. It is completely normal for your pup to experience:
- Mild lethargy or sleeping more than usual for 24 hours.
- A slight decrease in appetite.
- Mild tenderness or a small, painless lump at the injection site.
Disclaimer: If your puppy experiences facial swelling, vomiting, difficulty breathing, or extreme lethargy, contact your veterinarian immediately, as this could indicate a rare allergic reaction.