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My 8-year-old dog has never had shots. What vaccines are needed?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

hello - I have an 8-yr old Shih Tzu/Poodle that has not had any shots. This is the first time we have done this with one of our dogs - I don't know why, but I want to have her "prepped" for the late stages in her life...What shots would be necessary at this point for her?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Stacey Anstaett, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 24th, 2018

Hello! For starters, she should have "core" vaccines - DAPP and Rabies. DAPP (distemper/parvo) - Since she is an adult, a single DAPP vaccine will be sufficient for at least 1 year. After 1 year, your vet may recommend checking titers ( a blood test to check for immunity) rather than re-vaccinating after only 1 year. Or, your vet may feel comfortable with considering that single vaccine a 3 year vaccine, or may recommend a booster after 1 year. Rabies- a 1 year Rabies should be given. Another rabies vaccine needs to be given after 1 year..... that 2nd rabies vaccine can be a 3 year vaccine. Beyond that, talk to your vet. Further vaccination recommendations are based on what is of greatest concern in your area, and on what her lifestyle is like. Here is a great summary of the current recommendations: https://www.aaha.org/public_documents/guidelines/vaccination_recommendation_for_general_practice_table.pdf I hope that helps you! Thanks for asking PetCoach!

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    Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

    Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

    Published on

    Hi there! Congratulations on your new puppy :) At 8 weeks old, she needs to have her first DAPP vaccine (distemper, adenovirus, parvovirus, and parainfluenza) now. She should also have a fecal exam for parasites so that she can be dewormed, if needed. Her DAPP vaccine will need to be boostered every 3 weeks until she is 16 weeks or older. So if she gets her first one now, she will need boosters at 11 weeks, 14 weeks, and 17 weeks of age. She can get her rabies vaccine at 17 weeks with her last DAPP vaccine. Depending on where you live and what her lifestyle will be (boarding, grooming, hiking, etc.), she may need other vaccines including Bordetella (kennel cough), Lyme disease, or leptospirosis. I would recommend discussing this with your veterinarian to see what he/she suggests.

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