Puppy & kitten vaccine schedule.

Worked example

A puppy born on 2026-01-01 has its first core (DAPP) dose around 2026-02-12 (6 weeks), the second 2026-03-05 (9 weeks), the third 2026-03-26 (12 weeks) and the final puppy dose 2026-04-23 (16 weeks). Rabies is given from 12 weeks as local law allows, and the first-year booster falls near 2026-12-31.

How it works

Dogs (AAHA 2022): the core vaccine is DAPP (distemper, adenovirus, parvovirus, parainfluenza). The first dose is given at 6 to 8 weeks and repeated every 2 to 4 weeks, with the last dose at 16 weeks of age or older, because maternal antibodies can block earlier doses. Rabies is a single dose, not before 12 weeks by label; the legal age is set locally. A booster follows about a year later.

Cats (AAFP 2020): the core vaccine is FVRCP, started at 6 to 8 weeks and repeated every 3 to 4 weeks until at least 16 weeks. Rabies is a single dose. FeLV (feline leukemia) is core in kittens: two doses 3 to 4 weeks apart starting at 8 weeks. A first-year booster follows.

This tool uses a simple plan: doses at 6, 9, 12 and 16 weeks, rabies at 12 weeks, booster at 52 weeks of age (about 1 year old). Your vet may shift them by a week or two, start earlier for a shelter or high-risk puppy, or add non-core vaccines (Bordetella, leptospirosis, Lyme). Puppies are not fully protected until after the last dose, so keep them away from unvaccinated dogs and shared ground until your vet says it is safe.

Sources and basis (checked 2026-10-05): AAHA Canine Vaccination Guidelines (2022); AAHA/AAFP Feline Vaccination Guidelines (2020). Dates are planning targets.

FAQ

When does a puppy get its first shots?

The first core (DAPP) dose is usually given at 6 to 8 weeks of age, with boosters every 3 to 4 weeks until the puppy is at least 16 weeks old.

How many puppy shots are needed?

Commonly three to four core doses plus rabies, depending on the age of the first dose. The last core dose must be given at 16 weeks or older.

When is the rabies vaccine given to a puppy?

One dose, not earlier than 12 weeks by label. The age required by law depends on where you live, often 12 to 16 weeks.

When can a puppy go outside after shots?

Ask your vet. Protection is not complete until after the last puppy dose, and risk depends on your area. Socialisation in safe, controlled settings usually starts earlier.

What is the kitten vaccine schedule?

FVRCP from 6 to 8 weeks repeated every 3 to 4 weeks until at least 16 weeks, FeLV in two doses from 8 weeks, rabies once, and a booster at one year.