All puppies need their shots, and chihuahuas are no exception. But when can chihuahua puppies get their first shots? Your little Chihuahua, like human children, needs a series of vaccinations to protect them against various deadly diseases.
Chihuahuas are susceptible to a number of deadly illnesses. Some of which can kill them if they are not protected. That’s why it’s important to make sure your Chihuahua gets their shots when they are supposed to. So when can chihuahua puppies get their first shots? We will cover that in this blog post.
Chihuahua Immunization Overview
Like all other puppies, Chihuahuas are born without any immunity to disease. They start to build up their immunity when they are about two weeks old when their mother’s milk starts to contain antibodies.
Vaccinations are an important part of keeping your Chihuahua healthy and safe.
The recommended age for puppies to start getting their shots is six weeks old. At this age, they should get their first set of vaccinations, which will protect them against a number of diseases, including:
⚫Bordetella Bronchiseptica
Pneumonia due to Bordetella bronchiseptica is a severe, life-threatening illness. It is an extremely infectious bacterium that causes vomiting, whooping, coughing, and in rare circumstances, seizures and death.
⚫Canine Hepatitis
Chihuahua can get infectious canine hepatitis, a highly contagious viral illness that affects the eyes, lungs, spleen, kidneys, and liver. The virus is spread through contact with contaminated urine, feces, blood, or saliva. The virus that causes this liver disease is unrelated to the human version of hepatitis.
Symptoms include a mild Fever, pain around the liver, stomach enlargement, jaundice, and vomiting. The mild form of the illness is easy to cure, but the severe variety can be fatal. There is no treatment for this condition. However, the vet may help with the symptoms.
⚫Canine Distemper
Distemper is a serious, life-threatening illness that affects a puppy’s respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems. It is spread through contact with infected saliva, urine, or feces. Chihuahua can also get the virus via sharing drinking bowls and food equipment.
It results in nose and eye discharges and paralysis, twitching, seizures, diarrhea, vomiting, coughing, fever, and, in some cases, death. Because it causes the footpad to be thick and hard, this condition is also known as “hard pad.”
⚫Heartworm Disease
A parasitic worm that lives in the heart and lungs of Chihuahua is what causes heatworm diseases. The worms transmit to chihuahuas through the bite of an infected mosquito.
These worms lodge in the pulmonary arteries and the right side of the heart. Sending blood to the lungs. They may spread throughout the body and sometimes affect the kidneys and liver. The symptoms of heartworm disease include a cough, lethargy, weight loss, and difficulty breathing. And when the disease is severe, it could lead to sudden death.
⚫Canine Parainfluenza
Parainfluenza is a highly contagious viral illness that affects the respiratory system. It is spread through saliva, urine, or feces. Chihuahua can also get the virus via sharing drinking bowls and food equipment.
The symptoms of parainfluenza include a runny nose, sneezing, fever, and a cough that can last for several weeks. In severe cases, pneumonia may develop.
⚫Kennel Cough
Kennel cough is a highly contagious disease from a number of different viruses and bacteria. Which includes Bordetella bronchiseptica, parainfluenza, adenovirus type-II, and mycoplasma. It is spread through saliva, urine, or feces. Chihuahua can also get the virus via sharing drinking bowls and food equipment.
The symptoms of kennel cough include a dry, hacking cough that can last for several weeks. In severe cases, pneumonia may develop. Antibiotics are rarely necessary, except in the most severe and persistent cases. Cough suppressants might help a dog feel more at ease.
⚫Parvovirus
Parvo is a highly contagious virus that affects all chihuahuas. But puppies under four months old are at the greatest risk of getting without vaccine. The virus is spread through contact with contaminated feces.
The symptoms of parvo include severe vomiting and diarrhea, often bloody. Puppies can become dehydrated and die within 48 hours without treatment. With prompt treatment, most puppies recover from the disease. Because there is no cure, keeping the Chihuahua hydrated and treating the secondary symptoms will help them get through the sickness until their body’s immune improves.
⚫Lyme Disease
This disease is caused by the Borrelia burgdorferi bacterium transmitted to Chihuahua through the bite of an infected tick. The symptoms include fever, lameness, loss of appetite, and lethargy. In some cases, kidney failure may develop. Lyme disease is curable with antibiotics, but it is often hard to diagnose in its early stages.
⚫Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection that transmits to Chihuahua through contaminated water or soil contact. The symptoms of leptospirosis include fever, vomiting, diarrhea, jaundice, and dehydration. It’s a zoonotic illness, which means chihuahuas can pass it on to humans. Antibiotics work, and the sooner they are given, the better.
⚫Rabies
Rabies is a viral disease affecting animals that causes paralysis, fear of water, profuse drooling, hallucinations, anxiety, headaches, and death. It is transmits through the bite of an infected animal. Treatment must begin within hours after infection; else, death is quite probable. Most states need rabies vaccines on a regular basis. Consult your veterinarian for information on rabies vaccination requirements and laws in your area.
Prevention is the best way to protect your Chihuahua from these diseases. Vaccinations are available for all of these conditions, and you should talk to your veterinarian about which ones are right for your Chihuahua.
When Can Chihuahua Puppies Get Their First Shots?
As we mentioned before, the recommended age for puppies to start getting their shots is six weeks old. It is when they should get their first set of vaccinations.
It is important to note that puppies should not get vaccines more than once every three to four weeks. Until they are 16 weeks old. After that, they can get vaccines once a year for the rest of their lives. Subsequent vaccinations should be given at least three to four weeks apart, depending on the vaccine and the vet schedule.
Necessary Shots for a Chihuahua Puppies
It will always be critical to protect your Chihuahua against sickness. When a puppy is weaned from the mother, it should get the first series of shots. Since the mother’s antibodies will no longer protect them.
Depending on the veterinarian and animal clinic, your Chihuahua may require the following vaccinations. Additional shots may be necessary depending on where you reside and any potential risks.
For a Chihuahua, here’s how their vaccination timetable might look:
After 15 weeks of age, some chihuahua puppies may require additional parvovirus vaccinations. You should discuss it with your veterinarian. Rabies vaccinations are usually given to chihuahua puppies when they’re four months old. Although the timing may vary depending on your location’s rabies laws.
It is best to consult with veterinarians about vaccinating your Chihuahua. And which vaccines are necessary in your area.
Are There Any Optional Chihuahua Vaccines?
A few vaccines may not be necessary, but your veterinarian may recommend them based on your Chihuahua’s lifestyle and risk factors. Though puppy vaccines are vital for your canine companion’s general health and well-being. Since not every puppy chihuahua has to get vaccines against every illness.
Some canine vaccinations should only be given if certain conditions are met, such as:
🐾Lifestyle
Your Chihuahua’s lifestyle plays a role in the vaccines they should or shouldn’t get. For example, if your Chihuahua never goes outside, they’re at very low risk of exposure to most diseases. In this case, your vet may not recommend vaccinating them against something like Bordetella ( Kennel Cough). Since they’re not likely to be around other dogs who may have it.
On the other hand, if your Chihuahua frequently goes to dog parks, boarding facilities, or grooming salons. They’re at a higher risk of exposure. They should get vaccine against Bordetella and other diseases. Including parainfluenza virus, adenovirus 2, and canine parvovirus.
🐾Travel Habits
Suppose you frequently travel with your Chihuahua or take them to places where other dogs go (like dog parks). In that case, they should get a combination of vaccines.
If you only travel within the state, your Chihuahua only needs routine vaccines like rabies, distemper, and adenovirus. However, suppose you’re traveling outside of the country with your Chihuahua. In that case, they may need additional vaccines to protect them from common diseases in chuhuahua in other parts of the world but rare in other states.
🐾Environment
If your Chihuahua lives in an area where there’s a risk of exposure to heartworm. They should get vaccines against it. Heartworm is a parasitic worm transmits to dogs through mosquito bites. If left untreated, a heartworm can be fatal.
Your Chihuahua may also needs to get vaccines against Lyme disease if you live in an area where there’s a risk of exposure to tick bites. Lyme disease is a bacterial infection that can cause severe health problems. Including joint pain, kidney problems, and even death.
🐾Medical History
If your Chihuahua has a medical condition that makes them more susceptible to infections. It may need to get vaccines more often or given different vaccines than a healthy chihuahua. For example, if your Chihuahua has cancer or is taking immunosuppressive drugs. They may need to get vaccines against Bordetella and other diseases more often.
🐾Age
Puppies needs to get vaccines more often than adult dogs because their immune systems are still developing. Puppies typically receive a series of vaccinations every two to four weeks. Until they’re 16 weeks old. After that, they’ll need booster shots every one to three years, depending on the vaccine.
Adult dogs only need booster shots every one to three years, depending on the vaccine.
Possible Side Effects and Adverse Reactions to Shots
There are always potential side effects and adverse reactions, as with any medicine. It is important to note that most puppies experience only mild side effects after getting their first shots. Here are some of the most common side effects:
👉Soreness, Redness, or Swelling at the Injected Area
It is a very common and mild side effect for a chihuahua to have soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site. It usually goes away within a few days and soothes with a cold compress.
👉Loss of Appetite
Some chihuahuas may experience a loss of appetite after getting their first shots. This is usually only temporary and should go away within two days.
👉Fever
A small percentage of chihuahuas may develop a fever after getting their vaccines. If your Chihuahua has a fever, it is essential to contact your veterinarian right away.
👉Lethargy
Some chihuahuas may become lethargic after getting their vaccines. This usually only lasts for a day or two and is nothing to be overly concerned about.
👉Pain or Myalgia
After getting vaccinated, a small percentage of chihuahuas may experience pain or myalgia (muscle aches). It is essential to contact your veterinarian if this occurs.
More severe reactions are rare but may include:
👉Hives
It is very rare for a chihuahua to have an allergic reaction to a vaccine, but it is possible. If your Chihuahua breaks out in hives after getting vaccinated, it is essential to contact your veterinarian right away.
👉Anaphylactic Reactions
This is a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction after a chihuahua is vaccinated. It is important to contact your veterinarian right away if you think your Chihuahua has an anaphylactic reaction.
👉Vomiting
Some chihuahuas may vomit after getting vaccinated. This is usually nothing to be concerned about and will resolve on its own. However, if your Chihuahua is frequently vomiting or for an extended period of time, it is important to contact your veterinarian.
👉Difficulty breathing
If your Chihuahua has difficulty breathing after getting vaccinated, it is a medical emergency, and you should contact your veterinarian or take them to the nearest animal hospital immediately.
How to Handle Vaccine Reaction in Your Chihuahua
If you think your Chihuahua is reacting to a vaccine, it is important to contact your veterinarian right away. They will be able to determine if the reaction is severe and needs immediate medical attention or if it is something that can be monitored at home. Here are some remedy options for mild reactions:
- Apply a cold compress to the area for 15-20 minutes several times a day for soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site.
- For loss of appetite: Try offering small meals more frequently throughout the day or adding some wet food to their dry food.
- If your chihuahua has fever: Give your chihuahua puppy acetaminophen or ibuprofen (never give aspirin to a chihuahua) at the recommended dose based on their weight.
- For lethargy: Encourage your Chihuahua to get some exercise, but don’t overdo it. A short walk around the block or some playtime in the yard should be enough.
- For pain or myalgia: Give your chihuahua puppy acetaminophen or ibuprofen (never give aspirin to a chihuahua) at the recommended dose based on their weight. You can also apply a warm compress to the area for 15-20 minutes several times a day.
- If the reaction is more severe, your veterinarian will likely give your Chihuahua a shot of epinephrine. They may also give them antihistamines or steroids. They may also need to be hospitalized for observation.
When to Contact Your Veterinarian
It is always best to err on the side of caution when it comes to your Chihuahua’s health. If you are ever unsure about whether or not a reaction your Chihuahua is having is normal, it is always best to contact your veterinarian. They will be able to give you guidance on how to best care for your Chihuahua after their first shot.
It is important to remember that vaccine reactions are rare, and most chihuahuas will not have any problems after getting vaccinated. If you have any concerns or questions, be sure to talk to your veterinarian.
Why Is It Important to Chihuahua Puppies Get Their First Shot?
There are a few reasons why it is important for chihuahua puppies to get their first shots. Below we will list a few of the most important reasons.
▶️Improve Immunity to Diseases
When puppies are born, they have some immunity to diseases that they get from their mother. However, this immunity decreases when they are around two to three weeks old. This is why it is important for them to get their first shots when they are six weeks old. By getting the vaccine, it will help improve their immunity to diseases.
▶️Reduce the Risk of Infection
Another reason why it is important for chihuahua puppies to get their first shots is to reduce the risk of infection. When puppies are born, they are at a higher risk of getting infections because their immune system is not fully developed yet.
▶️Protect Other Animals
It is important for chihuahua puppies to get their first shots because it will help protect other animals. When puppies are not vaccinated, they are at a higher risk of spreading diseases to other animals. Getting the vaccine will help reduce the risk of them spreading diseases.
Scheduling A Vaccination Appointment For Chihuahua Puppies
You should arrange a puppy vaccination schedule during your first veterinarian appointment, which should happen within a week of getting your new chihuahua puppy.
After the puppy vaccination schedule has been completed, or soon after welcoming an adult chihuahua into your household, an adult chihuahua vaccination program, which includes periodic booster immunizations, should be set.
Your veterinarian will help you determine the best vaccination program for your Chihuahua based on their age, health, lifestyle, and risk of exposure to disease.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I vaccinate my own chihuahua puppy?
A: While you can technically vaccinate your own chihuahua puppy, it is not recommended. It is always best to have a professional administer the vaccine.
Q: How often do chihuahuas need to be vaccinated?
A: The frequency of vaccinations will depend on the individual Chihuahua and their vaccination history. However, most chihuahuas will need to be vaccinated every one to three years.
Q: Is it possible for a puppy chihuahua to get vaccinations at four weeks?
A: A puppy chihuahua can get vaccinations at four weeks; however, it is not recommended. Puppies should wait until they are six weeks old to get their first shots.
Q: What are the risks of not vaccinating my Chihuahua?
A: If you do not vaccinate your Chihuahua, they will be at a higher risk of contracting diseases. They will also be at a higher risk of spreading diseases to other animals.
Q: How many shots do chihuahua pups require before going out?
A: Chihuahua pups require a total of five shots before they can go out. These are typically given at six, eight, twelve, and sixteen weeks old.
Q: Do indoor chihuahuas still need to be vaccinated?
A: Yes, all chihuahuas should be vaccinated regardless of whether they live inside or outside.
Q: I think my Chihuahua reacted to the vaccine. What should I do?
A: If you think your Chihuahua reacted to the vaccine, it is important to contact your veterinarian immediately. They will be able to determine if the reaction was due to the vaccine and will give you guidance on what to do next.
Q: Where can I get my Chihuahua vaccinated?
A: You can get your Chihuahua vaccinated at your local veterinarian’s office or animal clinic.
Q: How much does it cost to vaccinate a chihuahua?
A: The cost of vaccinating a chihuahua will depend on the type of vaccine, the number of vaccines, and where you get the vaccine. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $100.
Q: Is there a way to get my Chihuahua vaccinated for free?
A: There are a few ways that you may be able to get your Chihuahua vaccinated for free. You can check with your local humane society or animal shelter to see if they offer any vaccination clinics. You can also check with your veterinarian to see if they offer any discounts or specials.
Final Thoughts
Your Chihuahua’s first shots are just the beginning of their journey to a long and healthy life. Like any other vaccination routine, a chihuahua vaccination schedule should be followed diligently to guarantee that your canine friend is happy, healthy, and well for the rest of their life.
Here at ILoveChihuahua, we share our personal experiences as owners of this feisty breed. We talk about recommended methods, dog supplies picks, and advice on common Chihuahua problems. Our goal is to promote responsible dog ownership, so there would be fewer Chihuahuas in shelters.
