Puppy Vaccine Schedule by Age
Use this age-by-age timeline to prepare for vet visits. This schedule follows the AAHA Canine Vaccination Guidelines and AVMA recommendations. It is an educational planning guide, not a substitute for veterinary advice. Your veterinarian may adjust timing based on your puppy's breed, health history and local disease risk.
| Age | Typical vaccine | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| 6–8 weeks | DHPP dose 1 | Begins protection against distemper, adenovirus (hepatitis), parvovirus and parainfluenza. |
| 10–12 weeks | DHPP dose 2 | Usually given 3–4 weeks after the first dose. Parvovirus risk is highest before this dose. |
| 12–16 weeks | Rabies | Timing depends on local law and your veterinarian. Most US states require rabies vaccination by 16 weeks. |
| 14–16 weeks | DHPP dose 3 | Final puppy-series dose for most puppies. The AAHA recommends the last dose at or after 16 weeks. |
| 12 months | DHPP and rabies boosters | First annual booster. Subsequent boosters may follow a 3-year schedule depending on vaccine label and local law. |
Build dates from your puppy's birthday
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Create a puppy scheduleVeterinary authority references
This schedule is compiled from the following authoritative veterinary sources. Always confirm the final timeline with your veterinarian, as local laws (especially for rabies) and individual risk factors vary.
AAHA Canine Vaccination Guidelines (2022)
The American Animal Hospital Association publishes evidence-based vaccination protocols for core and non-core canine vaccines.
AVMA Vaccination Principles
The American Veterinary Medical Association provides vaccination guidance for pet owners and veterinarians.
CDC Rabies Information
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention maintains current rabies laws, risk data and prevention guidance for the United States.
Frequently asked questions
When should puppy shots start?
Most puppies begin their core vaccine series at 6–8 weeks of age, when maternal antibodies from the mother's milk begin to wane. The AAHA recommends starting DHPP at 6–8 weeks and continuing every 2–4 weeks until at least 16 weeks of age.
Can a puppy go outside before all shots?
Discuss with your veterinarian. While full protection is not complete until the final puppy dose (typically 14–16 weeks), controlled socialization in safe, clean environments is important for behavioral development. Avoid dog parks, pet stores and areas with unknown dogs until the series is complete.
What are core vs non-core vaccines?
Core vaccines (DHPP and rabies) are recommended for every dog regardless of lifestyle. Non-core vaccines — Bordetella (kennel cough), leptospirosis, Lyme disease and canine influenza — depend on your dog's geographic location, lifestyle and exposure risk. Your veterinarian can help you decide which non-core vaccines are appropriate.
Why does the AAHA recommend the last puppy dose at 16 weeks?
Maternal antibodies can interfere with vaccine response up to 14–16 weeks in some puppies. Giving the final DHPP dose at or after 16 weeks ensures the puppy's own immune system responds fully, even if maternal antibodies were still present during earlier doses.
This page is an educational reference compiled from publicly available AAHA, AVMA and CDC guidelines. It does not constitute veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Vaccination protocols must be determined by a licensed veterinarian based on your puppy's individual health status, breed, geographic location, and local legal requirements. Never delay or skip veterinary care based on information read online. If your puppy shows signs of illness — lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite — contact your veterinarian immediately.
Related: puppy deworming schedule and adult dog vaccine guide.