Puppy Vaccination Schedule (USA, 2026)
Complete vaccination timeline from 6 weeks to adulthood, including core vaccines, optional vaccines, and what to expect at each vet visit.
Last reviewed: June 2026 · Based on AAHA Canine Vaccine Guidelines
Vaccination Timeline
6–8 weeks
Core Vaccines
- DHPP (first dose)
Optional (Lifestyle-Based)
- Bordetella (kennel cough)
First vet visit. Deworm. Start flea/tick prevention. Begin socialization.
10–12 weeks
Core Vaccines
- DHPP (second dose)
Optional (Lifestyle-Based)
- Leptospirosis (first dose)
- Lyme disease (if in tick-endemic area)
Continue socialization. Keep away from unvaccinated dogs until this series is complete.
14–16 weeks
⚖️ Legally RequiredCore Vaccines
- DHPP (third dose)
- Rabies (first dose — legally required)
Optional (Lifestyle-Based)
- Leptospirosis (second dose)
- Lyme (second dose)
- Canine Influenza (if boarding or dog park)
Rabies is legally required in all 50 states. After this visit, puppy is considered protected.
12–16 months
Core Vaccines
- DHPP booster
- Rabies booster
Optional (Lifestyle-Based)
- Bordetella (if boarding)
- Leptospirosis annual
- Lyme annual
- Heartworm test
One-year boosters. Begin bi-annual or annual wellness exam routine.
Every 1–3 years (adult)
Core Vaccines
- Rabies (per state law)
- DHPP (every 3 years in most states)
Optional (Lifestyle-Based)
- Bordetella (every 6–12 months if boarding)
- Leptospirosis (annually)
- Lyme (annually)
Annual heartworm test. Monthly flea/tick/heartworm prevention year-round.
Core Vaccines — Required for All Dogs
Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza
The core "puppy shot." Protects against four serious diseases. Given 3–4 times as a puppy, then every 3 years as an adult.
Rabies virus
Required by law in all 50 US states. First dose at 12–16 weeks, booster at 1 year, then every 1–3 years depending on vaccine type and state law.
Optional Vaccines — Based on Lifestyle & Region
Bordetella
⚠️ Risk factor: Boarding, dog parks, groomers
Protects against kennel cough. Required by most boarding facilities. Given every 6–12 months.
Leptospirosis
⚠️ Risk factor: Rural areas, standing water, wildlife exposure
Bacterial infection spread through water and soil. Recommended for dogs with outdoor exposure.
Lyme Disease
⚠️ Risk factor: Tick-endemic areas (Northeast, Midwest, Pacific Coast)
Recommended for dogs in areas with high tick populations. Given in spring/fall tick seasons.
Canine Influenza (CIV)
⚠️ Risk factor: Boarding, dog shows, dog parks
Two strains: H3N2 and H3N8. Recommended for highly social dogs in areas with outbreaks.
Monthly Parasite Prevention (Year-Round)
Heartworm
Monthly
Heartgard, Interceptor, Simparica Trio
Flea & Tick
Monthly or every 3 months
Simparica, NexGard, Bravecto, Credelio
Heartworm test
Annually (required before starting prevention)
Annual blood test at vet
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can my puppy go outside before vaccines?
Partially. Avoid areas frequented by unknown dogs (dog parks, sidewalks in high-traffic areas) until at least 2 weeks after the final DHPP dose at 16 weeks. Safe options before full vaccination: your backyard (if no wildlife), homes of vaccinated dogs, carried in public (not on the ground).
What happens if I miss a vaccine appointment?
If you miss by 1–2 weeks, your vet may continue the series from where you left off. If it's been longer, the series may need to restart. Call your vet to confirm the best approach.
Are combination vaccines safe?
Yes — combination vaccines like DHPP have an excellent safety record. Side effects are usually mild (lethargy, soreness at injection site for 24 hours). Serious reactions are very rare (1 in 10,000+ doses).
Does my indoor dog need vaccines?
Yes. Rabies vaccination is legally required regardless of indoor/outdoor status. Parvo and distemper can be carried in on shoes and clothing. Even strictly indoor dogs should be vaccinated.