Dog Vaccinations Explained in Plain English

We've all been there - you take your best boy or girl to the veterinarian for an annual check-up, and find out they need all these shots with names that sound like they could belong to Italian pasta dishes or an obscure metal band. But what in the world do all these vaccines do and what do they mean?

Fear not, dog moms and dog dads! Let's break it down as simply as possible:

Core Vaccinations

Core vaccines are just like their name suggests - every dog and puppy needs them. 

DAPP

DAPP stands for Distemper, Adenovirus, Parainfluenza and Parvovirus. Distemper is a highly contagious and fatal disease that affects unvaccinated dogs. Symptoms include pneumonia, fever, and neurological issues. Adenovirus is also known as canine hepatitis and can cause upper respiratory infections, fever, liver and kidney failure. Parainfluenza is associated with kennel cough, and Parvovirus causes dehydration, vomiting, diarrhea, and an array of other serious and potentially fatal complications in puppies. Parainfluenza is technically not a required vaccine, but it is often given with the DAP vaccines. 

Puppies should get their first round at 6-8 weeks, their second at 10-12 weeks, and their final round at 14-16 weeks. Once your dog reaches adulthood, they'll only need DAPP every three years.

Canine Rabies

Rabies vaccines are typically not given to puppies before 14-16 weeks, though some state laws require it to be given earlier. Once your pup is a year old, they'll receive their rabies vaccine again and will only need it every three years after that. 

Noncore Vaccinations

Also known as "lifestyle vaccines," noncore vaccines are normally optional and are given based on where you and your pup live, whether your dog is outdoors often and based on how often your dog is around other dogs. 

Bordetella

Like Parainfluenza, Bordetella is also associated with kennel cough. Bordetella normally resolves itself, but it's still highly contagious and can lead to more serious complications. Even though Bordetella is treated as a noncore vaccine, your pup will need it regularly if they go to doggy daycare or are boarded often. Bordetella can be given to puppies at 6-8 weeks, and can be given every 6 months to a year to adult dogs. 

Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease spread through an infected dog's urine. Both humans and dogs can get it; although it was once only recommended for dogs in rural settings, it's now recommended for dogs in cities too due to rat problems. If needed, leptospirosis can be given to puppies between 10-16 weeks, and adult dogs every year.

Lyme Vaccine

Lyme Disease is caused when an infected tick bites their dog-host. It can cause a decrease in appetite, fever, lethargy and other serious side effects. Lyme vaccines are recommended in specific, woodsy parts of the United States - your vet will be able to tell you if your dog needs it. Puppies as young as 10-12 weeks can receive the Lyme vaccine, and adult dogs receive it annually. 

Canine Influenza

Known as H3N2 or H3N8, canine influenza is highly contagious. Infected dogs experience runny noses, low-grade fevers and cough. These vaccines are typically recommended for dogs who go to day care and boarding regularly. Your pup will receive the canine influenza vaccine at 10-12 weeks and 14-16 weeks. After that, the vaccine is administered once a year. 

Keep in mind that your veterinarian is your best source for vaccine information, but we hope this guide will help simplify the names, causes and reasons for you! You may also find this puppy shot timeline helpful.

7 Myths about Pit Bulls and Bully Breeds

You probably know one or at least a few people who talk about how "scary" pit bulls are and how they should be banned. But how often have these people actually had an encounter with a bully breed? It's likely that they're simply making assumptions.


If you're not sure what a "bully breed" is, the most common are the American Bulldog, The American Staffordshire "Staffy" Terrier, the Bull Terrier, the Bullmastiff, and the most-recognized American Pit Bull Terrier. We'll debunk seven common misconceptions about all of these bully breeds that will surely change your mind about them!

Myth #1: Pit bulls and bully breeds are the most "dangerous" types of dogs. 

Fact: According to a peer-reviewed study that analyzed 10 years' worth of dog bite and bite-related incidents, American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) researchers determined these dog bites were classified as preventable issues unaffected by the dog's breed. Researchers suggested solutions such as breed-discriminating laws were ineffective in preventing dog bites, since a dog's breed is simply not enough of a determining factor.

You may also notice when some media outlets report a dog bite or an attack, the dog's breed is almost never mentioned unless it's a pit bull (or any breed thought to be "aggressive"). This also furthers the stereotype of bully breeds being aggressive. According to a study published in the Veterinary Journal, dogs that are assumed to be pit bulls are identified incorrectly about 60% of the time, and one in three shelter dogs were misidentified as pit bulls. It is very possible that many of these reports are inaccurately identifying other mixed-breed dogs as pit bulls.


Myth #2: Pit bulls can lock their jaws and have the strongest bites. 

Fact: Let's be clear here - there is no dog breed on the planet that has the ability to "lock" its jaw. The strength of a dog bite is directly correlated to the dog's size, so naturally larger dogs bite harder. A pit bull's bite is actually weaker than the German Shepherd's or the Rottweiler's*.

*Bite strength does not mean these dogs are more dangerous! These breeds just happen to be larger and physically stronger than pit bulls - this does not make them "bad."


Myth #3: Pit bulls are more dog-aggressive than other dogs.

Fact: Any type of dog can become aggressive towards other dogs and "snap," regardless of their breed. A study on canine aggression found that dog-aggression did not differ between pit bulls and bully breeds when compared to the control group - Golden Retrievers. No scientific study has ever confirmed that a specific breed is more aggressive toward other dogs than others.

Myth #4: Pit bulls and bully breeds are naturally mean. 

Fact: Modern pit bulls and pit bull-type dogs are reported to have very positive temperament scores. In fact, they score higher than 100 of the 130 dog breeds examined! About 20% of all dogs with homes can be identified as a bully breed. If a dog breed was actually bad, then why would it be so popular?

Myth #5: Bully breeds are not adoptable. 

Fact: All dogs are adoptable! Unfortunately, bully breeds make up close to half of shelter populations, probably due to people's misconceptions swaying them to choose another dog. The reality is many adoptable pups come from terrible conditions, so any rescue dog takes some levels of patience regardless of their breed. Pit bulls are actually a lot more lovable and loyal than they get credit for, so why not give a sweet bully boy or girl a good home?

Myth #6: Pit bulls were originally bred to fight, so they're set in their ways.

Fact: Today's bully breeds descend from an English bully breed whose goal was to take down bulls and other large animals. When this method of baiting animals was banned in the 1800s, people decided to fight their dogs against each other and even bred them with smaller dogs so they could move more quickly in fights. While the pit bull's origin is a violent one, this does not mean all bully breeds are fighting dogs. All dogs were initially bred for a purpose: pit bulls to take down bulls, English Mastiffs to hunt, and Border Collies to herd. While yes, some of these instincts remain genetic, proper socialization and training can reduce the risk of behavior problems in all breeds. Some pit bull owners in the 1800s instead bred their dogs to be loving companions and did not "fight" them, which results in the goofy, sweet-tempered pitties we see today. It can be assumed that the modern pit bulls are usually not selectively bred and therefore are just as trainable as any other dog.

In short: pit bulls were originally bred to overpower large animals, but this was hundreds of years ago and does not necessarily hold true today, especially since so many bully-types are mixed breeds.

Myth #7: Bully breeds are adorable and have the cutest square-shaped heads. 

Image by Joe Stoltz from Pixabay 

Fact: This is actually 100% true. No lies here!


Hopefully this fact-vs.-fiction guide has affirmed your love for bully breeds, or maybe eased your fears about them. Any dog can become aggressive when it is not properly trained, regardless of the breed. All a dog needs is love, care, proper training and a responsible owner. If you can, consider opening your home to foster some bully-babies or even adopt your own pit-pal!

The Perfect Dog for You, According to Your Personality Type

Do you know you want a dog, but aren't sure what kind to get? If you're between two or more breeds, you might want to think about adopting a canine companion that best suits your Myers-Briggs* personality type. 

Not sure of your personality type? Take this free version of the Myers-Briggs test to find out before you read on!

ISTJ: German Shepherd

Image Credit: https://www.flickr.com/photos/ronoli/

The ISTJ is usually a calm individual who values social and cultural responsibilities and hard work. Intelligent, obedient and fiercely loyal, a German Shepherd would best suit an ISTJ. They feel it's their responsibility to stay alert and keep you safe, so a German Shepherd is a great companion to share your responsibilities with! Although they're known for their overprotective nature, German Shepherds also do very well in family homes with proper training. 

Image Credit: Sylwia Aptacy from Pixabay 

              INFJ: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Creative and brilliant, the visionary INFJ usually has a deeper yet amusing perception of the world around them. INFJs typically thrive off of alone time, which makes the loving and laid-back Cavalier King Charles Spaniel the perfect pet. This peaceful lapdog is ideal for anyone who prefers to spend their Friday nights reading their favorite historical fiction series while snuggled up with their best friend!

Image Credit: digitalskennedy from Pixabay 

INTJ: Standard Poodle

The self-sufficient INTJ is very comfortable with solitude and finds frequent social events to be draining. Much like the INTJ, the clever and perceptive Standard Poodle also prefers a quieter home. When you two are done with your afternoon walk, you can both come home and bond over how well you avoided talking to chatty neighbors! Like any other dog, Standard Poodles do require socialization at an early age; however, they prefer human companionship over having dog friends. 

ENFJ: Labrador Retriever

Image Credit: Eric Tanas from Pixabay 

People-focused and charismatic, the ENFJ can quite literally connect with any person even if they have absolutely nothing in common. These extroverts are naturals at conversation and filling a room with positive energy, which is why a Labrador Retriever is ideal for them. Happy-go-lucky yet quick-witted and easy to train, a Lab is the perfect companion to take with you on all of your adventures. ENFJs are known to be a "giving" personality who often work in service and human resources roles, and Labs are commonly trained to be service dogs - perhaps you two could even go to work together! 

ISTP: Miniature Schnauzer

Image Credit: Isabell Wolf from Pixabay 

The mysterious ISTP is partially rational and logical, yet also very enthusiastic and spontaneous at times. Their unpredictable yet also unassuming nature makes them great owners to Miniature Schnauzers! Although these tiny terriers are known to be hyper and extroverted at times, they are also known to be serious, intelligent and even stubborn. Their spontaneous personalities complement yours just as well, so why not adopt your very own mini-me? 

Image Credit: Chiemsee2016 from Pixabay 

ESFJ: Golden Retriever

Known as "stereotypical extroverts," the ESFJ would make for a great Golden Retriever owner. The social butterfly ESFJ is an extremely likable person who enjoys making others happy - doesn't that sound exactly like a Golden Retriever?There's a reason why this breed remains one of the most popular: they're very trustworthy and always so cheerful! 

INFP: Basenji

Image Credit: Christina from Pexels

INFPs are just as introverted as many of the other "I" personality types, but they find themselves lost in their own ideas, thoughts and in finding deeper meaning more than most. They are a studious group that enjoys quiet, so the bark-less Basenji is the perfect pet. Although these hounds may not be as loud as most dogs, they tend to be much more affectionate toward their family than strangers and require just as much patience as their INFP owner to become comfortable with their surroundings. You'll always have a friend to relate to with this pup!

Image Credit: RogerMayhem from Pixabay 

ESFP: Beagle

Many entertainers are ESFPs, and for good reason: these people love being in the spotlight and sharing what they learn with others. The crowd-pleasing ESFP definitely needs a friendly and sociable Beagle in their life. These active and good-natured hounds also have quite the vocals, so maybe you can even duet with your four-legged partner!

ENFP: Rottweiler

Image Credit: (El Caminante) from Pixabay 

The "champion" ENFP prefers living outside of the box and are very sure of themselves. These confident and intuitive people would thrive with a calm and confident Rottweiler as their companion. Although Rottweilers are commonly (and incorrectly) assumed to be "aggressive," they tend to have a sweeter demeanor than they get credit for. If you want a perceptive and strong-willed friend, go get yourself a Rottie! 

Image Credit: Martin Tajmr from Pixabay 

ESTP: Great Dane

ESTPs tend to act before they think, and this isn't necessarily a bad thing. Their need for social interaction and desire to learn from logical reasoning and their emotions makes them an ideal owner for a Great Dane. They need companionship as much as you do, so you can both make friends at the dog park together! These gentle giants go with the flow as much as their human ESTP counterparts do and also thrive from freedom and space - partially stemming from their stature. 

ESTJ: Siberian Husky

Image Credit: Viola ' from Pixabay 

Dedicated and honest, the ESTJ believes in doing what is right and also assumes the role of "leader of the pack." It only makes sense that these helpful leaders choose a strong-willed and friendly Siberian Husky as their pet. Although Huskies sometimes use their intelligence how they want to instead of obeying your commands, your patience and leadership skills can definitely help them become just as much of a leader as you! 

Image Credit: Markoren from Pixabay 

ENTJ: Alaskan Malamute

The take-charge ENTJ rationally deals with all professional and personal issues externally and they fear no challenges. The rugged, strong yet soft-hearted Alaskan Malamute is ideal for this extroverted person. Since they enjoy challenge as much as you do, you can both conquer difficult hiking trails (safely, please!) together and spend a lot of time in the great outdoors! They thrive off of obstacles and are just as much of a leader as you - just be sure to establish yourself as the "alpha" early on. 

INTP: Border Collie

Image Credit: Katrin B. from Pixabay 

Brilliant and having a natural ability to "read" people, the logical INTP can exercise their mind with an equally brilliant dog: the Border Collie! This working dog is sharp, high-energy and are somewhat workaholics, much like their human INTP counterpart. They can be overly perceptive at times during training and get distracted, but the practical INTP can certainly guide them back on-task. 

  

Image Credit: Laurie Gouley from Pixabay 

ISFJ: Mixed Breed Rescue

Known as "the nurturer," the warm and selfless ISFJ is born to rescue a sweet shelter pup and give them the loving home they deserve. While we agree that all people are capable of adopting, the ISFJ is especially capable of handling even the most timid and fearful pup with their unmatched support and sensitive nature. Your good-natured and friendly rescue pet will be happy to return all of the love and kindness you show them! 

ENTP: Mastiff

Image Credit: Jan Steiner from Pixabay 

It only makes sense that the rarest personality type is suited to own a unique dog breed (depending on where you live). ENTPs and Mastiffs of all varieties are both intelligent and social, yet do not necessarily like common social settings. While you might prefer to meet friends at a museum instead of a bar, your Mastiff likely prefers to run in a spacious yard with just a few other dogs as opposed to a packed dog park. Similar to the logical and all-knowing ENTP, Mastiffs appear more intimidating than they actually are.

Image Credit: Petra Stanley from Pixabay 

ISFP: Shiba Inu

ISFPs are best described as being introverts that don't seem like your average introvert. These spontaneous people are actually very friendly and warm: they just take time getting comfortable, just like a Shiba Inu! The bold and clever spitz often acts suspicious toward unfamiliar humans and dogs, but eventually charm them with their humorous and fun-loving disposition. The ISFP is just as fun and spontaneous as the active Shibe, so you two can both find your happy medium together.

Do you agree with your perfect pup match? Sound off in the comments below!

*The Myers-Briggs Personality Assessment is not frequently used by psychology researchers, but is still considered an informative tool for individuals to learn more about their personality traits.