When it comes to maintaining the health and well-being of your small dog, ensuring a strict adherence to the right vaccination schedule is of utmost importance. This article will walk through the essential vaccines required for small dogs and the appropriate schedule for each.
Small dogs are susceptible to various infectious diseases that may have consequential health effects. Vaccines play a pivotal role in providing antibodies that prevent these diseases, thereby aligning with the aim of a healthier and longer lifespan for your pet.
Core and Non-core Vaccinations
Vaccinations for dogs are typically divided into two categories, namely, core and non-core vaccines. Core vaccines are essential for all dogs, regardless of their lifestyle or location. They protect against diseases that are common, contagious, or dangerous.
Core vaccines for dogs include:
- Canine distemper
- Canine parvovirus
- Canine adenovirus 1 (hepatitis)
- Rabies
Non-core vaccines, however, are not essential for every dog. These are recommended based on the pet’s lifestyle, location, and exposure risk. Non-core vaccines include:
- Bordetella bronchiseptica (kennel cough)
- Influenza (dog flu)
- Leptospirosis
- Lyme disease
- Canine coronavirus
- Canine parainfluenza
Vaccination Schedule for Small Dogs
The vaccination of small dogs starts from an early age, with the first set of vaccines administered when the puppy is between six and eight weeks old. These vaccines include the initial dose of distemper, parvovirus, and adenovirus. This is followed by a booster shot given at an interval of three to four weeks until the dog is about 16 to 20 weeks old.
The First Year
- 6-8 weeks: First doses of distemper, parvovirus, and adenovirus (hepatitis)
- 9-11 weeks: Booster doses for distemper, parvovirus, and adenovirus (hepatitis)
- 12-14 weeks: Second booster doses for distemper, parvovirus, adenovirus, along with leptospirosis, coronavirus, Lyme disease, and bordetella based on exposure risk
- 16-17 weeks: Rabies vaccination and a final booster dose for distemper, parvovirus, and adenovirus
- 6 months: Neutering or spaying can lead to hormonal changes that may affect immunity, requiring possible re-vaccination or boosters
The first year of a puppy’s life is a critical period for vaccinations. It is required to return to the veterinarian for booster shots to ensure that the vaccines’ protection is effective.
The Next Years and Beyond
After the initial series of puppy vaccinations, most dogs only require annual or triennial vaccines, depending on the local laws and the vaccine’s brand and type. Rabies vaccine is usually given annually or once every three years. The other core vaccines—distemper, parvovirus, and adenovirus—are generally given once every three years.
Concerning non-core vaccines, leptospirosis and bordetella vaccines are usually updated annually, especially for dogs who frequently visit boarding kennels. The lyme disease vaccine is also an annual vaccine, recommended for dogs residing in or traveling to areas with a high risk of ticks.
Adverse Reactions and Contraindications
Like any medical intervention, vaccines can sometimes lead to adverse reactions. These may range from mild symptoms like slight fever, sluggishness, and reduced appetite, to more severe reactions like vomiting, diarrhea, swelling, and in rare cases, anaphylaxis—a serious allergic reaction requiring immediate veterinary intervention.
Despite these potential adverse reactions, the benefits of vaccination undeniably outweigh the risks. Infrequently, certain health conditions may necessitate delaying vaccines or choosing not to vaccinate your pet. This decision should always be made in consultation with a trusted veterinarian, keeping the dog’s overall health and disease risk exposure in mind.
Final Note
Maintaining a regular vaccination schedule for your small dog is a mark of responsible pet ownership that significantly contributes to your furry companion’s health and longevity. It’s essential to consult with your veterinarian to create a vaccination schedule tailored to your dog’s needs, considering their age, breed, health condition, lifestyle, and risk of exposure.
Remember, every pet is unique and thus, their vaccination schedule may vary. Regular check-ups, a balanced diet, good hygiene, and preventative measures such as regular flea, tick, and worm treatments go hand in hand with vaccinations to keep your small dog healthy and vibrant. Vaccination is indeed the best gift of protection you can offer your small dog.
