At what age should I start vaccinating my puppy?

Bringing home a new puppy means juggling excitement with a million little worries—from potty training to making sure they stay healthy. One of the biggest questions that creeps up is when to start protecting them with vaccines. Most vets agree the first round should begin between 6 and 8 weeks old, right as your pup starts to wean from their mom’s milk. That early start matters because mom’s antibodies fade around this time, leaving your little one vulnerable to serious illnesses like parvovirus or distemper. Plus, many localities require proof of core vaccinations before you can take your puppy out in public spaces, so staying on track keeps you compliant too.

After that first vaccine, your puppy will need follow-up shots every 3 to 4 weeks until they’re around 16 weeks old. This series is key because young puppies’ immune systems aren’t fully developed yet—each dose builds their protection stronger. Your vet might adjust the schedule a bit based on where you live: if you’re in an area with more ticks, for example, they may recommend adding a Lyme disease vaccine earlier. It’s not just about health, either; puppy socialization classes are a big part of helping your pup grow into a confident dog, but most trainers won’t accept unvaccinated puppies.

You’ll want to stick close to this timeline even if your puppy seems perfectly healthy. Some of the diseases vaccines prevent are deadly, and they spread easily in places puppies love—like dog parks or pet daycares. In many regions, there are also laws that mandate core vaccines (think DHPP, which covers distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, and parvovirus) for all dogs, regardless of breed or size. Skipping early doses could put you at risk of fines, not to mention putting your puppy’s life in danger.

It’s also smart to keep a detailed record of each vaccine visit. Many pet-friendly apartments, hotels, or boarding facilities will ask to see this paperwork before letting your pup stay. After the initial series, your vet will suggest booster shots to keep protection up, usually once a year or every three years depending on the vaccine type. And if you notice any mild side effects—like a little sleepiness or a sore spot at the injection site—don’t panic; that’s normal. But call your vet right away if you see vomiting, diarrhea, or extreme lethargy.

Protecting your puppy with vaccines isn’t just a to-do list item—it’s one of the first big ways you show them you care. Every vet’s office knows the specific rules and risks in your area, so working with them to tailor a schedule will give you both peace of mind. Before you know it, those vaccinated visits will turn into fun outings to the park, knowing your pup is safe and ready to explore.