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Puppy vaccination schedule: every shot, by age
Puppies get their first DHPP (distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, parainfluenza) shot at 6 to 8 weeks, then a booster every 2 to 4 weeks until they are at least 16 weeks old. Rabies is given once at 12 to 16 weeks. Both are boosted about a year later, then DHPP every 3 years and rabies every 1 or 3 years, depending on the vaccine and local law.
Puppy shot chart
| Age | Core vaccines | Optional, based on lifestyle |
|---|---|---|
| 6 to 8 weeks | DHPP #1 | Bordetella (kennel cough) |
| 10 to 12 weeks | DHPP #2 | Leptospirosis #1, canine influenza #1, Lyme #1 |
| 12 to 16 weeks | Rabies | Leptospirosis #2, canine influenza #2, Lyme #2 |
| 14 to 16 weeks | DHPP #3 (last puppy dose at 16 weeks or older) | |
| 6 months to 1 year | DHPP booster, rabies booster | Leptospirosis, Bordetella |
| Adult | DHPP every 3 years, rabies every 1 or 3 years | Leptospirosis, Lyme, influenza yearly; Bordetella every 6 to 12 months |
Schedules vary with the vaccine brand, your region and your puppy's health. Your vet sets the final plan.
What DHPP protects against
DHPP (also written DAPP or DA2PP) is one combined shot against four diseases:
- Distemper, a virus that attacks the lungs, gut and nervous system. Often fatal.
- Hepatitis (canine adenovirus), which damages the liver.
- Parvovirus, a severe gut infection that kills many unvaccinated puppies.
- Parainfluenza, one of the causes of kennel cough.
Why puppies need several doses
Antibodies from the mother's milk protect a newborn puppy but also block vaccines. They fade at a different age in every puppy, somewhere between 6 and 16 weeks. Repeating the shot every 2 to 4 weeks until at least 16 weeks makes sure one dose lands after that protection is gone.
Core vs non-core vaccines
Core vaccines are recommended for every dog: DHPP and rabies. The American Animal Hospital Association also counts leptospirosis as core for most dogs in North America. Non-core vaccines depend on lifestyle: Bordetella for daycare, boarding and grooming; Lyme in tick areas; canine influenza for dogs that meet many other dogs.
Rabies and the law
Rabies vaccination is required by law in most US states and in many countries. It is also the first thing checked when you travel. If you plan to take your dog abroad, get the microchip before the rabies shot, or the vaccine may not count. See pet travel requirements by country.
Flea, tick, heartworm and worms
Alongside vaccines, puppies need deworming every 2 weeks from about 2 weeks of age until 8 weeks, then monthly parasite prevention. The American Heartworm Society recommends starting heartworm prevention by 8 weeks of age and giving it all year round.
Frequently asked questions
When can my puppy go outside?
Most vets suggest waiting until about 2 weeks after the last puppy DHPP shot, at 16 weeks or older, before visiting dog parks or places with unknown dogs. Your own garden and carrying the puppy are usually fine earlier.
What happens if my puppy misses a booster?
Contact your vet. If the gap is long, the series may need to restart with two doses 2 to 4 weeks apart.
How many shots does a puppy need?
Usually 3 or 4 DHPP doses, one rabies shot, and optional vaccines based on lifestyle, all before about 16 to 20 weeks of age.
How often do adult dogs need shots?
DHPP every 3 years after the first adult booster, rabies every 1 or 3 years, and leptospirosis yearly.
Sources
Rules change. Always confirm with the official source above and your vet before you travel or change a vaccine plan.