Vaccinations are the foundation of your puppy's health - they protect against diseases that remain genuinely dangerous and sometimes fatal. Here is how a typical schedule looks and what to keep in mind in the first months of a dog's life.
A typical vaccination schedule
The exact plan is always set by the vet, but the outline is similar for most puppies. The first vaccine is usually given at around 6-8 weeks of age, with further doses every 3-4 weeks until about 16 weeks. They protect against serious viral diseases: distemper, parvovirosis, infectious hepatitis and rabies. Booster vaccinations follow - some yearly, some every few years. In Poland, rabies vaccination for dogs is compulsory.
Why boosters matter
Immunity after a single dose does not last - only the full series builds solid protection. Missing a booster can leave the puppy unprotected at the most vulnerable stage of its life. Before every vaccination the vet examines the puppy to make sure it is healthy on the day.
Side effects - what is normal
After vaccination a puppy may be a little sleepy or less playful for a day, with slight swelling at the injection site - this passes quickly. Rare signs that need urgent contact are vomiting, facial swelling, marked weakness or breathing problems.
Socialisation during the vaccination period
Until the primary course is complete, the puppy does not yet have full immunity - but total isolation is a mistake, because the socialisation window (up to roughly 12-16 weeks) shapes the dog's confidence for life.
- avoid high-risk places such as dog parks and gatherings of unknown dogs,
- allow controlled contact with healthy, vaccinated dogs,
- get the puppy used to sounds, people and car travel.
We will plan your puppy's vaccination calendar during the first visit at the MultiVet clinic in Lutynia near Wrocław - see our full range of services.