Monitor — routine vet appointment
UK puppy vaccination and socialisation schedule
First vaccination at 6-8 weeks, second at 10-12 weeks; full protection ~2 weeks after second jab — until then keep puppy off public ground but socialise carefully through carries and known healthy dog gardens.
First aid steps
- Vaccinations: typically distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, parainfluenza, and leptospirosis (DHPPi+L4) at 6-8 and 10-12 weeks.
- Optional: kennel cough (intranasal), rabies (for travel), Lyme.
- Annual boosters thereafter.
Do NOT
- Do not skip the second vaccine.
- Do not take to parks or pavements before full protection.
- Do not skip socialisation entirely waiting for full protection — 16 weeks is the critical window.
Prevention
- First vaccine 6-8 weeks.
- Second vaccine 10-12 weeks (4 weeks after first).
- Full protection 2 weeks after second.
- Annual boosters from then.
- Socialise via carries, low-risk environments, known healthy dog gardens during the in-between window.
Frequently asked questions
Why is socialisation so important before full vaccination?
The critical socialisation window closes at 12-16 weeks. Carrying puppy out, visiting friends with vaccinated healthy dogs, and exposing to new people, sounds, and surfaces shapes lifelong confidence.
Can I walk my puppy in my own garden?
Yes — own garden is generally safe before full vaccination if no recent infected dog visited.
How much does it cost?
First puppy course typically £80-150 in the UK; annual boosters £50-100. Many vets offer health plans bundling vaccines and parasite control.