When you bring a new furry friend into your life, one of the primary responsibilities you take on is their health care. And a crucial part of that care involves vaccinations. Just like in humans, vaccines help prevent many illnesses that affect dogs. With the first round of shots being the most important, you might be wondering, “how much is dogs first shots?” This guide aims to provide you with detailed information about the cost, the types of vaccines, and when they should be administered.
Table of Contents
- Why Vaccinate Your Dogs?
- What Vaccines Does Your Dog Need?
- The Cost of the First Shots
- When Should You Vaccinate Your Dog?
- Frequently Asked Questions
Key Takeaways
- Vaccinating your dogs is crucial for their health and wellbeing.
- The cost of your dog’s first shots can vary depending on the type of vaccine and your location.
- Your dog should get their first shots at six to eight weeks of age.
- There are core and non-core vaccines for dogs.
Why Vaccinate Your Dogs?
Vaccinating your dogs is a relatively small investment compared to the potential cost of treating a preventable disease. Vaccines stimulate the immune system to recognize and combat harmful diseases. They can protect your dog from many dangerous and even fatal diseases, such as rabies, distemper, parvovirus, and adenovirus.
According to PetMD, the initial puppy vaccination costs during the first year are higher than the annual dog vaccination costs. A detailed health schedule can be found at One Top Dog, which offers comprehensive information about the care of your puppy, starting from the first weeks of life.
What Vaccines Does Your Dog Need?
Dog vaccines are divided into two types: core vaccines and non-core vaccines. Core vaccines are recommended for all dogs, while non-core vaccines are given based on your dog’s exposure risk and lifestyle.
Core Vaccines
- Rabies
- Distemper
- Parvovirus
- Adenovirus
Non-Core Vaccines
- Bordetella
- Lyme Disease
- Leptospirosis
- Canine Influenza
You can read more about these vaccines on One Top Dog.
The Cost of the First Shots
The cost of your dog’s first shots can depend on several factors, including the type of vaccine, your geographic location, and the fees of the vet clinic.
| Vaccine | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Rabies | $15-$20 |
| Distemper, Parvovirus, Adenovirus | $60-$70 (as a combo shot) |
| Bordetella | $20-$45 |
| Lyme Disease | $20-$30 |
| Leptospirosis | $15-$30 |
| Canine Influenza | $25-$45 |
In general, you can expect to pay anywhere from $75 to $300 for your dog’s initial set of vaccines.
When Should You Vaccinate Your Dog?
Your dog should get their first shots at six to eight weeks of age. After that, they should receive a series of vaccines every two to four weeks until they are 16 weeks old. The vaccination schedule may vary based on the specific vaccine and your dog’s health condition. It’s best to consult with your vet to determine the optimal schedule for your pet.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are there any side effects to the vaccines?
Just like any other medical procedure, there can be side effects. Most dogs only experience temporary and mild side effects such as fever, sluggishness, and reduced appetite.
2. What if I adopted an older dog?
Even if your dog is older, they should still receive core vaccines and any non-core vaccines that your vet recommends.
3. Can I vaccinate my dog myself?
While some vaccines are available over the counter, it’s advised to have vaccines administered by a professional. This ensures the vaccines are stored and given properly, and any potential reactions can be immediately addressed.
As a dedicated caregiver, ensuring that your dog receives their first shots is an important step in providing them a healthy, happy life. Remember, the cost of prevention is often less than the cost of treatment. More information about pet care and vaccines can be found on One Top Dog.
