Vaccines are given to dogs at regular intervals in order to help their immune system respond to exposure from disease. If the mother was properly vaccinated before pregnancy, most puppies receive protective antibodies through nursing for their first eight weeks. After that, a series of vaccinations are given every three weeks until the puppy reaches twelve to sixteen weeks old. At this age, dogs only require annual vaccinations. There are currently eight diseases that are routinely vaccinated against in dogs. Six of them are given in one injection, and the rabies vaccine is given in a separate injection. The final vaccine, one against canine cough complex, is given to dogs in drops through their nose. In addition, a new vaccine against Lyme disease is being made available to dogs. All canines should receive boosters of vaccines on a yearly basis. For more information on dog vaccinations, consult a veterinarian in your area.
