What Vaccines Does My Puppy Need in New Jersey?

Why Puppy Vaccines Matter

Vaccines help protect your puppy from highly contagious—and often life-threatening—diseases. From rabies to parvovirus, these preventable illnesses can have devastating consequences, especially for young puppies with developing immune systems.

Whether you're a first-time pet parent or a seasoned dog owner, understanding which vaccines are needed, and when, can go a long way in keeping your puppy healthy and thriving.

‍

Core Puppy Vaccines Required in NJ

Let’s start with the non-negotiables. These core vaccines are recommended for every puppy, regardless of breed, lifestyle, or location.

1. Rabies Vacine

• Legally required in New Jersey
• First dose must be given by 7 months of age
• Booster typically given 1 year later, then every 1–3 years depending on the product used

Packanack Tip: A Rabies vaccine is required for licensing your dog in all New Jersey towns, so keep those records handy! Learn more about our approach to vaccinations and preventive care.

‍

2. DA2PP Vaccine (also known as DHPP or “Distemper Combo”)

Protects against:

• Distemper
• Adenovirus (Hepatitis)
• Parvovirus
• Parainfluenza

Schedule:

• Start between 6–8 weeks of age
• Booster every 3–4 weeks until over 16 weeks of age
• Annual booster 1 year later, then every 3 years

This combo vaccine offers broad protection against some of the most serious viral diseases that puppies can face.

‍

3. Leptospirosis

• Spread through standing water, puddles, or wildlife urine
• Zoonotic (transmissible to humans)
• More common in suburban and wooded areas, including many parts of Passaic County
• A version of the DAPP combo also includes Lepto – fewer pokes for your pup, while still protecting them from life-threatening diseases

Did you know? Even dogs who spend most of their time indoors can be exposed to Leptospirosis, so this vaccine can be a true lifesaver for all dogs.

• NJ law says dogs need to be vaccinated by 7 months of age. Rabies vaccines are labeled for dogs over 12 weeks of age.
• Many clients come from other towns - don’t want to make it sound like it’s a requirement unique to Wayne
• Lepto was updated to a core vaccine a few months ago by AAHA

‍

Optional (Non-Core) Puppy Vaccines Based on Lifestyle

These vaccines are not necessary for all dogs but may be highly recommended depending on your puppy’s exposure risk.

1. Bordetella (Kennel Cough)

• Recommended if your puppy visits dog parks, daycare, grooming salons, or boarding facilities
• Often required by pet service providers in and around Wayne, NJ

2. Lyme Disease

• Spread by ticks
• Common in northern New Jersey, especially if your pup plays outside, hikes, or lives near woods or tall grass

Live near Packanack Lake or High Mountain Park Preserve? Your puppy might benefit from Lyme and Lepto protection. We’re happy to discuss a custom plan during your first puppy wellness visit.