At what age should a puppy receive its first vaccination?

The first vaccination for puppies is typically administered when they are between 6 to 8 weeks old. This timing is crucial because it coincides with the period when maternal antibodies, which puppies receive from their mother’s milk, begin to wane. By vaccinating during this window, we help ensure that the puppy is protected against common infectious diseases such as distemper and parvovirus while providing an opportunity for the puppy's immune system to respond effectively to the vaccine.

Vaccinating too early, such as at 4 to 6 weeks, may not provide adequate protection, as maternal antibodies might still interfere with the vaccine's efficacy. Waiting until 10 to 12 weeks or beyond may leave the puppy vulnerable to infections during a critical period of development. Therefore, 6 to 8 weeks is the optimal age for the initial vaccination, balancing both maternal antibody levels and the puppy's ability to mount an immune response.