What Vaccinations Does My Yorkshire Terrier Need?

Vaccinating your Yorkshire Terrier is essential to ensuring their long-term health and protecting them from serious diseases. Whether you’re a new puppy owner or an experienced Yorkie parent, understanding the core and optional vaccinations is key. In this guide, we’ll break down the vaccines your Yorkie needs, how often they should receive them, and why they’re important.

Core Vaccinations for Yorkshire Terriers

Core vaccinations are essential for all dogs, including Yorkshire Terriers. These vaccines protect your Yorkie from common, life-threatening diseases.

1. Canine Distemper
   Canine distemper is a viral disease that affects a dog’s respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems. The distemper vaccine is typically administered as part of a combination vaccine called DHPP.

2. Parvovirus
   Parvovirus is a highly contagious virus that attacks the digestive system. It can be fatal, especially in puppies, which is why vaccination is critical.

3. Adenovirus (Hepatitis)
   This vaccine protects against infectious canine hepatitis, a serious disease affecting the liver, kidneys, and blood vessels.

4. Rabies
   Rabies is required by law in most areas. It’s a fatal virus transmitted through bites from infected animals. Your Yorkie will typically need their first rabies shot at around 16 weeks, with boosters every one to three years.

Optional (Non-Core) Vaccinations

Depending on your Yorkie’s lifestyle, additional non-core vaccines might be recommended by your vet. These are generally given based on your Yorkie’s exposure risk.

1. Bordetella (Kennel Cough)
   If your Yorkshire Terrier spends time in boarding facilities, dog parks, or grooming salons, the Bordetella vaccine is often recommended to protect against kennel cough.

2. Leptospirosis
   This bacterial infection is spread through contaminated water or soil. The vaccine is recommended for dogs in rural or outdoor settings where they may come in contact with wildlife.

3. Lyme Disease
   For Yorkies living in areas with a high population of ticks, the Lyme disease vaccine may be beneficial. This protects against tick-borne diseases.

Puppy Vaccination Schedule

To ensure your Yorkie gets the right protection at the right time, follow a proper vaccination schedule:

• 6–8 weeks: First DHPP vaccine (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus)

• 10–12 weeks: Second DHPP vaccine and optional Bordetella vaccine

• 14–16 weeks: Third DHPP vaccine, Rabies vaccine

• 1 year: DHPP booster, Rabies booster

Why Vaccinations Are Important for Yorkies

Vaccinating your Yorkshire Terrier is critical to preventing fatal diseases and avoiding the high cost of treatments. Regular boosters keep their immunity strong throughout their life. Even if your Yorkie stays indoors, they’re still at risk of exposure to diseases through interactions with other dogs.

Premium Puppy Care at Essence of Grace Yorkies

At Essence of Grace Yorkies, we ensure our puppies receive all core vaccinations before going to their new homes. This guarantees that your new puppy is protected and healthy. While we provide basic care, we always encourage new owners to continue following their vet’s vaccination recommendations to maintain immunity.