Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Is the Lepto vaccine safe for my tiny chihuahua? What's the dose?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 2 months old | 3.75 lbs

1. Nachos contract says not to give him vaccinations for Panacur and Leptospirosis as it could be dangerous for him - he’s a ‘micro’ chihuahua but his vaccines (DHPPL) I believe has both Parvo and Lepto? Should we give him those vaccinations? And if yes, what amounts do they recommend for him now that he’s 1 year and 2 months old and 3.75 lb.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on March 23rd, 2018

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Panacur is a medication, it is a dewormer. I have not found it to be dangerous for any breed or size dog. Leptospirosis is a bacteria excreted in wild animal urine. A dog or human can get this bacterial infection from ingesting contaminated water or the bacteria can penetrate wounds. It causes kidney and liver failure. Dogs get very sick with this infection and can die. If Nacho will hike, go swimming, camping, you live in a city and he may drink from puddles (rat urine) or you have water on your property you should vaccinate him. Again, I have not found that a particular breed is more sensitive that another to the vaccine. Since Nacho is small I would not give him the Leptospirosis vaccine with the DHPP. I would separate it out and give it by itself. I personally do not give tony dogs too many vaccines at once. He needs 2 vaccines for leptospirosis, 3 weeks apart then yearly. Every dog, regardless of size, gets the same volume. The DHPPL does have Leptospirosis in it. You need to weigh the pros and cons of giving that vaccine versus his risk of contracting the bacterial infection. If his risk of getting it is minimal then do not vaccinate. I hope this helps!

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Heidi DVM, CVA, CCRT, CVTP, CVSMT, CVCH

    Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist, Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner

    Published on

    The answer to which vaccinations Nacho needs depends on his individual risk factors. I am attaching a link to the American Animal Hospital Association's vaccine guideline below. https://www.aaha.org/guidelines/canine_vaccination_guidelines/practice_vaccination.aspx They recommend that all dogs receive DAPP (which includes Parvo) and Rabies vaccinations. Those vaccines are considered Core vaccinations. Any other vaccinations are considered Non-Core and are only recommended for dogs that are at risk of contracting those diseases. Lepto is available as a separate vaccination and is recommend only if Nacho is at risk for contracting the disease. The above website also includes a Lifestyle-Based Vaccine Calculator to help you determine which diseases Nacho may be at risk for, but be sure to discuss that with your veterinarian to make the best decision. The amount of vaccine that is given to a dog is the entire recommended amount regardless of the size of the dog because the amount is the minimum amount required for the immune system to respond normally to the vaccine. If you give less than the recommended amount (which is normally 1 mL), the vaccine will not be protective. Good luck! I hope that was helpful and answered your questions. Thanks for using PetCoach.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has red spots all over. What's causing them and what to do?
See red spots on your pet? A certified Petco vet discusses common causes like allergies, infections, or mites, guiding you on diagnosis and treatment options.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?
Is your pet limping and can't bear weight? A certified vet explains why a suspected fracture needs immediate diagnosis and safe pain relief. Get expert guidance.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My dwarf hamster has a shut eye and is limping. What should I do?
Is your dwarf hamster struggling with eye issues or limping? A trusted vet offers expert guidance on symptoms and crucial next steps for comfort and care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored