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My 4-year-old dog has never had shots. What dog vaccines are needed?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered

I have a dog who’s been in the family for 4 years but has never been vaccinated, what vaccines does he need?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on July 21st, 2018

Core vaccines include distemper/parvovirus combination (DHPP) and a rabies vaccine. The distemper combo should be boosted in 4 weeks. The rabies vaccine should be boosted in 1 year, then every 3 years. Lifestyle vaccines, based on risk of exposure, include Bordatella, Lyme disease, Canine flu and Leptospirosis. These are administered as 2 injections given 3-4 weeks apart, then yearly. Bambi should also be tested cor heartworm disease then placed on a monthly preventative. A flea and tick preventative should also be used monthly. Submit a stool sample to your veterinarian to diagnose intestinal parasites.

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    Answered By Jacqueline Nobles, DVM, DACVECC

    Veterinarian, Board-Certified Emergency/Critical Care Specialist

    Published on May 25th, 2018

    Hello, By law, Athena is required to have a rabies vaccine. In an effort to protect your pet as well as others, we recommend a distemper/hepatitis/parvo vaccine and kennel cough vaccine. Also, heartworm testing and monthly prevention are strongly recommended. Heartworms are fatal so prevention is the key!

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