Puppy Vaccine Schedule

The following vaccine schedule is offered for those dogs where minimal vaccinations are advisable or desirable. The schedule is one I recommend after countless discussions, article reviews, and consultations with holistic Veterinarians. This information should not be interpreted to mean that other protocols recommended by a veterinarian would be less satisfactory. It’s a matter of professional judgment and choice.

Do Not administer multiple vaccines simultaneously in the same appointment. The risk of a serious vaccine reaction is increased when more than one vaccine is administered. Schedule them at least 2 weeks apart. Even if it costs you an extra vet visit. Also, do not schedule vaccines with any other procedure, or if the dog is under significant stress, in poor health, etc. Read the vaccine insert for yourself. It will advise you to NOT vaccinate any unwell pet.

Detox your dog following any vaccine (See Vaccine AfterCare Protocols on my Nutrition and Natural wellness site).

Recommended Vaccine Schedule for Puppies

(Jean Dodds, DVM -- Suggested Protocol)

9 – 10 weeks of age

Distemper + Parvovirus, MLV (Modified Live Virus)

e.g. Merck Nobivac (Intervet Progard) Puppy DPV

14 – 15 weeks of age

Distemper + Parvovirus, MLV

18 weeks of age

Parvovirus only, MLV

Note: New research states that last puppy parvovirus vaccine should be at 18 weeks old.

20-24 weeks, if allowable by law

Rabies – give 3-4 weeks apart from other vaccines

Mercury-free (thimerosol-free, TF)

1 year old

Distemper + Parvovirus, MLV

This is an optional booster or titer. If the client intends not to booster after this optional booster or intends to retest titers in another three years, this optional booster at puberty is wise.

1 year old

Rabies – give 3-4 weeks apart from other vaccines

3-year product if allowable by law; ask for mercury-free / thimerasol free (yes, they make it. No, most vets won’t have it in stock)

Other Puppy Vaccines

My Healthy Dog Blog has information about each the different vaccines you may be considering for your dog. Weigh your individual pet’s risk against each vaccine before making your decision. Do your homework.

After the first Year:

Perform vaccine antibody titers for distemper and parvovirus every three years thereafter, or more often, if desired. Vaccinate for rabies virus according to the law, except where circumstances indicate a written waiver must be obtained from the primary care veterinarian. In that case, a rabies antibody titer can also be performed to accompany the waiver request. Visit The Rabies Challenge Fund for more information.

Some dogs may have severe adverse reactions to vaccines. It is heartbreaking.

Puppy Vaccine Side Effects

  • Behavioral Changes: Aggression, Anxiety, Fear

  • Personality Changes

  • Seizures

  • Disorientation

  • Wobbling or unstable gait

  • Sensitivity to touch

  • Abnormal vocalizations

  • Urinary or Fecal incontinence

  • Death

  • Question these changes whether immediately or within months / first year of your dog’s vaccinations. In some cases, we may be able to help.

Report any vaccination reactions. Yes, lethargy, diarrhea, and vomiting are side effects. You will be told they are common responses. It’s still a reaction. The severity of reactions should dictate your decisions on future vaccinations.

Report Puppy Vaccine Reactions

To report suspected adverse drug events for the products below and/or obtain a copy of the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) or for technical assistance, contact the appropriate manufacturers at the following phone numbers:

  • - Merck Animal Health (Bravecto, Bravecto Plus): 800-224-5318

  • - Elanco Animal Health (Credelio, Seresto): 1-888-545-5973

  • - Boehringer Ingelheim (Nexgard): 888-637-4251

  • - Zoetis (Simparica, Simparica Trio, Revolution Plus, ProHeart): 888-963-8471

If you prefer to report directly to the FDA, or want additional information about adverse drug experience reporting for animal drugs, see How to Report Animal Drug and Device Side Effects and Product Problems here: https://www.fda.gov/.../how-report-animal-drug-and-device...

Pet parents and veterinarians who have additional questions can contact CVM at AskCVM@fda.hhs.gov, 1-888-FDA-VETS (1-888-332-8387), or by mail:

  • Center for Veterinary Medicine

  • Food and Drug Administration

  • HFV-1

  • 7500 Standish Place

  • Rockville, MD 20855

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