What shots do puppies need?

Although other vaccinations may be recommended depending on the location and lifestyle of the puppy, the core vaccinations recommended for all puppies are rabies, canine parvovirus, distemper and canine hepatitis. The rabies vaccine is required by law in most states.

Other commonly recommended vaccinations are bordatella, leptospirosis, parainfluenza, giardia and Lyme. The Lyme vaccine is generally only used in areas with very high rates of Lyme infection. Bordatella, commonly known as kennel cough, and parainfluenza are usually recommended for puppies who are boarded or go to daycare facilities with other dogs. Vaccination against giardia is uncommon because the vaccine does not prevent infection, but it can reduce transmission to other dogs.