Do puppy vaccines have to be exactly 4 weeks apart?
Cindy Schoen
2025-09-15 05:25:47
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: 15
The main rule to adhere to is that they should be given 3-4 weeks apart (4 weeks is the maximum), and the last should be given at or after 15-16 weeks. In general, distemper shots are given at 8, 10, and 12 weeks. And then, three weeks later, at 15 weeks. Some vets give them at 8, 12, and 16 while others choose 6, 12, and 16. If your dog had its first vaccine at 8 weeks and then there was no proof of a vaccine after 8 weeks and your puppy is now 15 weeks, the vet will give one right away, and then another vaccine in 3-4 weeks when your puppy is about 18 weeks. For example, if it's been a long time, your veterinarian will determine the age and week when the dog received each of the vaccines and they will then determine the new series for your dog. In cases like that, we'll have you bring your pet back more frequently to stagger the vaccinations, giving them once every 2 weeks instead of every 4 weeks.