What Vaccines Are Essential for My Dog?

Vaccinating your dog is one of the most important steps you can take to protect their long-term health. Vaccines help prevent serious, highly contagious, and potentially life-threatening diseases. Whether you have a new puppy or an adult dog, understanding which vaccines are essential can help you make informed decisions and keep your pet healthy at every stage of life.

Why Are Dog Vaccines Important?

Vaccines work by strengthening your dog’s immune system, allowing it to recognize and fight harmful viruses and bacteria before illness develops. Many of the diseases prevented by vaccines spread easily between dogs and can have severe or even fatal outcomes. In some cases, these diseases can also pose a risk to humans. Routine vaccinations not only protect your dog but also help maintain the overall health of the pet community.

Core Vaccines Every Dog Needs

Core vaccines are considered essential for all dogs, regardless of lifestyle or location, because they protect against diseases that are widespread and dangerous.

• Rabies: Rabies is a fatal viral disease that affects the nervous system and can be transmitted to humans through bites. Vaccination against rabies is required by law in most areas and is critical for both pet and public safety.

• Distemper: Canine distemper is a highly contagious virus that affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems. It can cause symptoms ranging from coughing and vomiting to seizures and paralysis. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent this disease.

• Parvovirus: Parvovirus is a severe and often deadly disease, especially in puppies. It causes intense vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, and weakness. The virus is extremely resilient in the environment, making vaccination essential.

• Adenovirus (Canine Hepatitis): Canine adenovirus can lead to liver disease, kidney damage, and eye issues. Vaccination helps protect dogs from this serious viral infection and is typically included in combination vaccines.

Non-Core Vaccines Based on Lifestyle

Non-core vaccines may be recommended depending on your dog’s environment, travel habits, and exposure risk.

• Bordetella (Kennel Cough): This vaccine helps protect against a highly contagious respiratory infection commonly spread in places where dogs gather, such as boarding facilities, grooming salons, training classes, and dog parks.

• Leptospirosis: Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease spread through contaminated water and wildlife urine. It can affect the kidneys and liver and may also be transmitted to humans. Dogs that spend time outdoors or near standing water may benefit from this vaccine.

• Lyme Disease: Lyme disease is transmitted through tick bites and can cause joint pain, fever, and kidney issues. Dogs that live in or travel to tick-heavy areas may need protection against this disease.

• Canine Influenza: Canine influenza causes respiratory illness and spreads quickly among dogs. Vaccination may be recommended for dogs that socialize frequently or stay in boarding or daycare environments.

When Should Dogs Be Vaccinated?

Puppies typically begin their vaccination series around six to eight weeks of age, with boosters given every few weeks until about sixteen weeks. Adult dogs require regular booster shots to maintain immunity, though the timing varies depending on the vaccine and your dog’s health history. Our veterinarian on W Happy Canyon Rd. will help create a schedule that ensures consistent protection throughout your dog’s life.

Protect Your Dog With Preventative Care at Brekke Veterinary Clinic

Vaccines are a vital part of preventative care and play a major role in keeping your dog healthy, active, and protected from serious diseases. While some vaccines are essential for all dogs, others depend on lifestyle and exposure risks. Working with a trusted veterinarian ensures your dog receives the right protection at the right time.

If you’re unsure which vaccines your dog needs or it’s time for an update, schedule a wellness exam with Brekke Veterinary Clinic for personalized vaccination plan that supports your dog’s health at every stage of life. Contact our office located on W Happy Canyon Rd. in Castle Rock, Colorado, by calling (303) 474-4260 to book an appointment today.