2. Not vaccinating the dog

Even if a dog is an indoor dog, he really does need to be vaccinated against common diseases. Diseased dogs don’t even have to come in contact to spread certain diseases like parvovirus because infected saliva can carry the illness. Most dogs have to go outside to relieve themselves, so they should be protected by vaccinations.

According to the American Humane Association, dogs should receive these vaccinations:

• DHPP — This shot contains antibodies that will protect the dog against four common canine diseases: distemper, parvovirus, parainfluenza, and hepatitis.
• Rabies — This is a disease that is always fatal, and rabies vaccinations are usually required by law in most areas of the United States. This disease is often spread by wildlife, so all dogs should be protected against rabies.
• Bordetella — The bordetella shot protects dogs against a respiratory illness commonly called “kennel cough.” If a dog goes anywhere that other dogs will be present, he needs a kennel cough vaccine. This includes groomers, boarding kennels, dog shows, and dog parks.
• Canine Influenza — This is another respiratory disease that can be transmitted anywhere that dogs frequent. Animal shelters and kennels struggle to keep this virus away, so dog owners should be proactive in vaccinating their dogs against canine influenza.
• Lyme disease — This disease is transmitted by tick bites, and all it takes is a single bite to infect a dog.
• Corona Virus — This intestinal disease causes severe, dehydrating diarrhea that can kill a small dog quite quickly.
• Leptospirosis — This vaccination is sometimes included with a distemper shot. This bacterial infection that can be spread from animals to humans is not prevalent in every community; however, it is common in areas of the country with humid climates and standing water.

Something as simple as a yearly series of shots can extend a dog’s life by protecting it against common canine illnesses. Dog owners should ask their vets which vaccines they should give their dogs each year.