Do you have a new puppy at home? One of the most important things you’ll need to do to welcome your puppy home is determine which immunizations they need. Understandably, it can be confusing keeping track of all the different vaccines that exist. We are here to help you get a better understanding of what immunizations are necessary for your dog.

Your Dog Will Need These Immunizations

There are five immunizations that every dog needs. Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, and Parainfluenza protect your dog from viral infections that are very contagious. Thankfully, these four immunizations are usually combined into one injection. Additionally, the rabies vaccine is required in many states because this virus is contagious and deadly to animals and humans alike.

Additional Recommended Vaccinations

Your veterinarian may make suggestions for other immunizations, such as Lyme disease, which is recommended especially if you live in a wooded area or your dog will be going on hikes with you where they may get bitten by deer ticks. Bordetella is a vaccine that is required for most kennels or boarding facilities, doggie daycare, dog parks, and obedience or training classes. It will protect your dog from kennel cough, so your veterinarian may suggest getting your dog vaccinated now rather than later. Surprisingly, there is also a coronavirus vaccine for dogs, but this is quite different from the human coronavirus as this one will affect your dog’s intestines, and will likely only be suggested if you live in the southern United States.

The Importance of Booster Shots

Some immunizations may require additional doses later on to provide complete protection, or your dog may need booster shots as they get older since not all vaccines provide lifelong protection. Your veterinarian will be able to advise you which booster shots will be needed, and when.

Contact your veterinarian today to find out if your dog is missing any important immunizations.