🩺 1. General Dog Health Overview
Just like humans, dogs need routine care to stay healthy. Their health depends on 4 major areas:
| Health Area | Description | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Nutrition | A balanced diet supports immunity, muscles, and coat health. | High-quality dog food with protein, fats, vitamins, minerals. |
| Exercise | Keeps weight under control and heart strong. | Walks, playtime, fetch, agility. |
| Hygiene | Prevents infections and parasites. | Bathing, ear cleaning, dental care, grooming. |
| Medical Care | Regular vet checkups and vaccines protect from diseases. | Annual checkups, parasite control, vaccinations. |
💉 2. Core Vaccinations (Essential for All Dogs)
These are mandatory or highly recommended by veterinarians worldwide. They protect against deadly diseases.
| Vaccine | Protects Against | Puppy Schedule | Booster |
|---|---|---|---|
| DHPP / DA2PP | Distemper, Hepatitis (Adenovirus), Parvovirus, Parainfluenza | 6–8 weeks, 10–12 weeks, 14–16 weeks | Every 1–3 years |
| Rabies | Rabies virus (fatal to dogs and humans) | At 12–16 weeks | Every 1–3 years (depends on local law) |
Notes:
- DHPP is often called the “5-in-1 vaccine.”
- Rabies vaccination is usually required by law and for travel.
💉 3. Non-Core (Optional but Recommended) Vaccines
These depend on your dog’s lifestyle, region, and risk factors.
| Vaccine | Protects Against | Recommended For |
|---|---|---|
| Bordetella (Kennel Cough) | Coughing illness caused by bacteria/viruses | Dogs that go to grooming, boarding, parks |
| Leptospirosis | Bacterial disease affecting liver/kidneys (transmitted by rodents/water) | Dogs in rural/farm or outdoor areas |
| Lyme Disease | Bacteria spread by ticks | Dogs in tick-infested regions |
| Canine Influenza (Flu) | Contagious respiratory infection | Dogs in cities, kennels, or daycare |
🐾 4. Puppy Vaccination Schedule (Example)
Here’s a typical timeline your vet might follow:
| Age | Vaccination |
|---|---|
| 6–8 weeks | DHPP #1 |
| 10–12 weeks | DHPP #2 + Bordetella (optional) |
| 14–16 weeks | DHPP #3 + Rabies |
| 12 months | DHPP booster + Rabies booster |
| Every 1–3 years | DHPP + Rabies + other vaccines depending on vet’s advice |
🦠 5. Parasite Prevention
Vaccines protect from diseases, but dogs also need regular prevention from parasites.
| Type | Prevention | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Fleas & Ticks | Spot-on, oral tablets, collars | Monthly or as directed |
| Intestinal Worms | Deworming tablets (e.g., Pyrantel, Fenbendazole) | Every 3 months |
| Heartworm | Special oral/injection medicine | Monthly or annually (depends on vet) |
🧼 6. Daily & Routine Health Care
Keep your dog healthy beyond vaccines:
| Care Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Dental care | Brush teeth weekly or use dental chews. |
| Bathing | Once every 3–4 weeks using dog shampoo. |
| Ear cleaning | Regularly to avoid infection, especially for floppy-eared breeds. |
| Nail trimming | Every 3–4 weeks. |
| Healthy diet | Feed measured portions, avoid human junk food. |
| Regular vet checkups | Once a year minimum — twice if senior dog. |
🧠 7. Signs Your Dog May Be Sick
Early detection saves lives. Contact a vet if you notice:
- Loss of appetite or sudden weight change
- Vomiting or diarrhea for more than a day
- Coughing, sneezing, or nasal discharge
- Lethargy or weakness
- Itchy skin, hair loss, or bad odor
- Difficulty walking or breathing
- Pale gums or bleeding
📋 8. Record Keeping
Always keep a Vaccination Record Card (pet passport or booklet) with:
- Vaccine names, batch numbers, and dates
- Vet signature and clinic stamp
- Next due date reminders
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