We get asked all the time about when puppies are fully protected and can go safely out into the big world. The following is the protocol we adhere to based on our years of experience and relationship with veterinarians.

7 weeks - First Distemper/Parvo (puppies should have already had this prior to pick up from breeder)

3 day vet check after leaving breeder - Bordetella vaccine

11-12 weeks, depending on timing of visit - 2nd Distemper/Parvo , lepto #1 and Rabies. If closer to 11 weeks, only Distemper/Parvo (must be 12 weeks to get rabies and lepto)

15/16 weeks - Final Distemper/Parvo, Lepto #2, Lyme #1 (if 2nd round done closer to 11 weeks, Lepto #1 and Rabies with next set in 3 weeks)

All dogs should be on a year round flea/tick preventative as well as a heartworm preventative. Puppies under 8 weeks receive Revolution, a product safe for young puppies. With puppies over 8 weeks of age, we recommend Nexgard for flea/tick and Sentinel or Heartgard for heartworm. We do not recommend a one size fits all product that combines medicine for all three issues. Likewise, we do not recommend topicals for dogs who are over 8 weeks. Most topicals have become ineffective. A large amount of veterinarians do not even carry them any longer.