All dogs need vaccines to protect them from potentially fatal diseases. Most vaccination schedules start when the dog is six weeks old. Dogs will require frequent booster shots for the remainder of their lives. Puppy owners should start the vaccination schedule soon after adoption. Older dogs usually come with a vaccination record.
Puppies are vaccinated against seven diseases, including canine distemper, parvovirus, and leptospirosis. Many of these inoculations require a second dose within a month and annual boosters thereafter. Rabies vaccines are mandatory in most states. Many states and countries will only allow a dog entry if the owner can show a valid rabies certificate