New PetWhat shots does my puppy need, when to socialize, and neuter?
Hi there! Congratulations on your new pup :) He will need his first DAPP vaccine (for distemper, adenovirus, parvovirus, and parainfluenza) at 8 weeks of age. This vaccine needs to be boostered every 3-4 weeks until he is 16 weeks or older. He will also need a rabies vaccine at 16 weeks. Additional vaccinations such as Lyme disease, leptospirosis, or Bordetella (kennel cough) may be recommended depending on what is common in your area and what your pup's risk of exposure is. Your veterinarian should be able to tell what else, if anything, would be recommended for Dallas. Dallas can be enrolled in a good puppy kindergarten class starting at 8 weeks, and can also be around healthy, vaccinated adult dogs. I would wait until after he's finished with his vaccinations at 16 weeks to take him to high-traffic areas where lots of strange dogs have been, such as pet stores, dog parks, etc. For medium to large breed dogs, it's best if they can finish growing before being neutered - this
Updated on September 24th, 2025