What is Core Combination Vaccine (DHPP/DHLPP)?
A combination vaccine that protects dogs against several serious diseases at once, such as distemper, parvovirus, and leptospirosis, given on a schedule of boosters.
The core combination vaccine for dogs, commonly abbreviated DHPP (or DHLPP/DA2PP-L depending on the formulation), protects against several serious infectious diseases in a single injection. The letters indicate the diseases covered: D for distemper, H for infectious canine hepatitis (adenovirus), P for parvovirus, P for parainfluenza, and, when included, L for leptospirosis, which may cover two or four common serovars depending on the product used and regional risk.
The standard protocol in puppies usually starts between 6 and 8 weeks of age, with boosters every 3 to 4 weeks until around 16 weeks, a period during which maternal immunity (received through the mother's milk) gradually wanes and the puppy becomes more vulnerable. After the initial series, most protocols recommend an annual booster, but this can vary based on veterinary guidance and the dog's risk of exposure.
Keeping vaccinations up to date is the most effective way to prevent diseases such as distemper, parvovirus, and leptospirosis, which have high fatality rates and no treatment that directly eliminates the causative agent. Talk to a veterinarian to set the ideal vaccination schedule for your dog based on age, history, and the region where they live.
Important notice
This calculator is for educational purposes and does not replace a veterinary evaluation. When in doubt, consult a veterinarian.Related terms
Canine Distemper
A serious, highly contagious viral disease that mainly affects unvaccinated dogs, attacking the respiratory, digestive, and nervous systems.
Canine Parvovirus (Parvo)
A serious, highly contagious intestinal viral infection, most common in puppies, that causes bloody vomiting and diarrhea and can be fatal within days.
Leptospirosis
A serious bacterial infection transmitted mainly through rat urine and contaminated water or soil, which attacks the kidneys and liver; it is also a zoonosis.