12/06/2025
**Why I Do Not Give Puppies the Lepto Vaccine Before They Leave…
And When I Do Recommend It**
As a responsible breeder, my first priority is always your puppy’s health and safety. You may notice that I do not administer the Leptospirosis (“Lepto”) vaccine before puppies go home. Here’s why:
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🍃 1. Young Puppies Have a Higher Risk of Vaccine Reactions
Lepto is known to cause more frequent reactions in puppies than other vaccines.
Many veterinary professionals and breeders avoid giving it with early puppy shots because:
• Reactions can include lethargy, facial swelling, vomiting, and soreness
• Small breeds (like Shelties, Frenchies) are especially sensitive
• Immature immune systems are more reactive before 12–16 weeks
By not giving Lepto before your puppy goes home, I’m reducing the risk of an unnecessary or stressful reaction during a time when your puppy is adjusting to a new home.
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🌿 2. Lepto Is Not Needed for Every Home
Leptospirosis vaccination should be based on lifestyle and local risk.
It is most commonly recommended for dogs who:
• Live near standing water, wildlife, or farm animals
• Go hiking, camping, or swimming in natural water sources
• Live in high-rainfall or high-rodent areas
• Are in states or counties with known Lepto outbreaks
If your puppy or adult dog is not exposed to these environments, the risk of disease may be low—so the vaccine may not be necessary.
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📅 When I Do Recommend Giving Lepto
I recommend discussing Lepto with your veterinarian after your puppy finishes their core vaccinations—typically around 16 weeks or older.
It may be appropriate if:
• You live in or visit areas with elevated Lepto cases
• Your dog will be outdoors in wildlife-heavy areas
• Your veterinarian has documented local risk
• You have a mature dog with established vaccine history
• Your dog regularly visits dog parks with dirt, mud, or wet grassy areas
For mature dogs, the immune system is more stable, and reactions to Lepto are less common.
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💬 My General Guidance
• Puppies under 12–16 weeks: Skip Lepto until their core vaccines are done.
• Older puppies & adults: Consider Lepto only if their lifestyle or location involves risk.
• Low-risk homes: Many dogs do perfectly well without this vaccine.
• High-risk homes: Lepto can be dangerous—so it’s worth protecting against once the dog is old enough.
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❤️ My Commitment to You
Every decision I make—every vaccine, every protocol—is designed to prioritize the long-term health of your puppy. I want you fully informed so you can make the best choice for your home and lifestyle after your puppy goes home.
If you’d like personalized guidance based on your area, your veterinarian’s recommendations, and your puppy’s breed, I’m always happy to help.