Puppy Vaccination Schedule: Weekly Detailed Program

The first day you bring your puppy home is exciting — but behind that tiny cuteness, a calendar awaits that will determine its lifetime health: the vaccination schedule. Diseases like parvovirus, distemper, leptospirosis can still be fatal in Turkey. In 2026, veterinary associations recommend a weekly framework, and this framework consists of 10 key points starting at week 6 and completed at week 16 for Caramel. Here is your weekly guide.

1Week 6: First exam and parasite check.

The most important step before vaccination: taking the puppy to the vet for a general health screening. This week, a fecal sample is taken; if there are internal parasites (giardia, coccidia, toxocara), vaccinations may be postponed because immunity does not fully develop in a parasite-infested body. Body temperature, oral examination, and palate check are done. If Pamuk is ready for this exam, the doors of the vaccination schedule are open.

2Week 7-8: Combination vaccine 1 (DHPP / DHPPiL).

The first combination vaccine: Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza and in some brands Leptospira. The first dose is given because antibodies from mother’s milk decrease after this week. In Turkey, brands like Nobivac, Eurican, Versican are common. After the vaccine, mild drowsiness and decreased appetite for 24-48 hours are normal; but if there is swelling, vomiting or shortness of breath, return to the vet the same day.

3Week 9-10: Combination vaccine booster (DHPPiL-2).

The booster dose of the first combination vaccine. This 2-3 week interval is critical for the immune system to form “memory cells.” During this period, keep the puppy away from risky areas like street animals, park grounds, and vet waiting rooms — it’s not yet fully protected. Indoor socialization yes, crowded park excursions still no. Short outdoor tours on leash, in your arms, can be done.

4Week 11-12: Combination vaccine booster (DHPPiL-3) + full Leptospira dose.

Third combination dose and second dose of leptospira vaccine. Leptospira passes through water puddles contaminated with rodent urine in rural areas of Turkey — especially important for families going on village vacations. By the end of this week, the puppy enters near-complete protection. You can take Buddy on short park visits, but wait until week 16 for contact with other dogs.

5Week 12-16: Rabies vaccine.

The only legally mandatory vaccine in Turkey. It is not given before week 12 because immunity is insufficient. The rabies vaccine is repeated annually and requires a titer test for passport-required international travel. By law, it is registered along with the microchip; in 2026, the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry registration system has been newly updated. Full protection is established 21 days after the vaccine.

6Week 12-14: Bordetella (Kennel cough) optional.

Against the contagious respiratory infection called “kennel cough.” Strongly recommended for puppies who will go to pet hotels, dog parks, training courses or multi-dog environments. Available in nasal spray or injection form. Optional for a single dog living alone without frequent socialization; but in Turkey’s big cities, even an apartment entrance can be enough contact area. Talk to your vet.

7Week 16: Final combination vaccine booster and “green light.”

Fourth and final combination dose. Now Leo is fully protected: can go to parks, training, and play with other dogs. This week is also the point when your vet will remind you that the “socialization window” is closing. Experiences before 16 weeks shape the puppy’s character for life. As the vaccination schedule ends, the socialization agenda begins.

8Month 4: Internal-external parasite protection begins.

Monthly tablets (for internal parasites) and monthly pipettes or collars (for external parasites) start regularly. In Turkey, especially in the Aegean and Mediterranean regions, tick-borne Ehrlichia and Babesia are serious risks. Popular combination products include Nexgard Spectra, Bravecto, Simparica. The vet adjusts the dose according to your puppy’s weight; never give pharmacy products on your own.

9Month 6: Spaying/neutering and dental check.

Most veterinarians consider 6-9 months ideal for spaying/neutering; in large breeds, 12 months is awaited (for hip development). In the same period, baby teeth should fall out completely; if they don’t, they are removed during surgery. If Pamuk’s check is done in the same session, two anesthesias become one anesthesia, two costs become one cost.

10Month 12 and beyond: Annual boosters.

One-year-old dogs go through annual combination vaccine, annual rabies vaccine and annual vet check. At this visit, blood tests are also recommended for functions like heart, liver, and kidney. The vaccination certificate and microchip number are kept up to date. As of 2026 in Turkey, the unregistered dog fine has risen to 6,850 TL — the schedule does not tolerate neglect.

In short:

The puppy vaccination schedule is a 10-week intensive program packed from week 6 to week 16, and missing this window translates into lifetime health costs. In Turkey, parvovirus still kills thousands of puppies a year; mostly because of families who take their puppy to the park before completing the vaccination program. Stick Caramel’s schedule on the fridge, get every reminder via Wuffi, and be patient until week 16. That vaccination card is the first insurance for lifetime health.