When should puppies get their shots?
Puppies get antibodies from their mother through nursing, which protects them until they are around 6 weeks old. We usually start their vaccines at 7 weeks to ensure they're protected when they return to their new homes.
How many shots do they need and how often? Our vet recommends three doses of a combination vaccine starting at 7 weeks, then every 3 weeks until they're done. At around 3 months old, they'll get a shot for Bordetella given as a nose spray. Most states also require a Rabies shot in the first year, followed by a booster every year to three years.
It's best to talk to your vet about the vaccine schedule and follow their advice. If you're worried about the number of shots, ask your vet to help you decide which ones are necessary based on where you live.
May your have Luv-N-Laughter throughout your Lives!!
In today's world, there is increasing concern over the number of vaccinations puppies receive, leading many to question whether we are over-vaccinating. The decision to administer different types of vaccines—some considered necessary (core) and others optional (non-core)—is influenced by factors such as lifestyle, geographic location, and potential outbreak risks in specific areas.
Core vaccines include protection against severe diseases like Distemper, Adenovirus (canine hepatitis), Parvovirus, and Rabies, which are crucial due to their contagious nature and potential health risks. Non-core vaccines, such as those for Bordetella (kennel cough), Canine Influenza, Lyme disease, and Leptospirosis, are given based on specific risk factors and exposure likelihood related to your dog's environment and activities.
Understanding the necessity and implications of each vaccine helps in making informed decisions about your puppy's health. Evaluating both core and non-core vaccines in the context of your particular situation can ensure your puppy remains protected against serious diseases without unnecessary vaccinations.
Did you know that the Lhasa Apso is a shed less dog? You would think with their long coats they would shed but no, they do not. They do require care though. The long coat needs constant brushing and cleaning to keep your dog, their coat, and their skin healthy. Many people opt instead to keep their dogs in a puppy clip which is much easier to maintain., To decide which is the best option for you and your dog lets talk a little about the pro's and con's of each.
Three benefits to a long coated Lhasa are:
- if you show the dog is required to have a long coat
- the dog regulates body temperature through their coat
- long coats look beautiful
Three cons to a long coat:
- coat matts and tangles
- gets muddy
- takes constant care and time
Three benefits to short coats
- easier to keep clean
- takes less time
- looks cute
Three cons to a short coat
- dog is unable to regulate temperatures/may get cold or hot
- need to take to the groomer more often
- may get more tangled as they grow out if you don't clip on a regular schedule.
As you see there are plusses and minuses of both long and short coats. both can cost money, both have grooming needs. It comes down to your personal preferences and the time you have to spend.
Check out my resource page on my website for some of my favorite grooming tools, shampoos and other dog related items.
May your have Luv-N-Laughter throughout your Lives!!
