🐾 Quick answer: Puppies need a series of vaccines starting at 6–8 weeks, with boosters every 3–4 weeks until 16 weeks. Adult dogs need annual or 3-yearly boosters depending on the vaccine. Rabies, Distemper, Parvovirus, and Adenovirus are core vaccines every dog must have.
Vaccinations are one of the most important things you can do for your dog's long-term health. They protect against serious, potentially fatal diseases — many of which can spread rapidly in areas where dogs mix. Understanding which vaccines your dog needs, and when, takes all the guesswork out of keeping them protected.
Core vs. Non-Core Vaccines
Dog vaccines are divided into two categories. Knowing the difference helps you have a more informed conversation with your vet.
Core vaccines are recommended for every dog regardless of lifestyle. They protect against diseases that are widespread, severe, or transmissible to humans.
Non-core vaccines are recommended based on your dog's specific lifestyle, location, and risk factors. Your vet will advise which are relevant for your dog.
Core Vaccines — Every Dog Needs These
Distemper, Adenovirus & Parvovirus (DAP / DHP)
This combination vaccine protects against three of the most serious dog diseases. Distemper affects the nervous system and is often fatal. Parvovirus causes severe vomiting and bloody diarrhea and kills quickly, especially in puppies. Adenovirus (hepatitis) attacks the liver. This is the most important vaccine your dog will ever receive.
Rabies
Required by law in most countries. Rabies is fatal and can be transmitted to humans. Even dogs who never go outdoors are typically required to be vaccinated. Given as a single vaccine, first at 12–16 weeks, then boosted every 1–3 years depending on local regulations and vaccine type.
Non-Core Vaccines — Ask Your Vet
Bordetella (Kennel Cough)
Highly recommended for dogs who visit dog parks, groomers, boarding kennels, or training classes. Kennel cough spreads extremely easily between dogs in close contact. Available as an injection or nasal spray. Required by most boarding facilities before your dog can stay.
Leptospirosis
Recommended for dogs who swim in natural water, live near wildlife, or spend time in rural areas. Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection spread through contaminated water and the urine of infected animals. It can also infect humans, making it a public health concern. Given annually.
Lyme Disease
Recommended in tick-endemic areas. If your dog spends time in woodland, long grass, or areas with high tick populations, ask your vet about this vaccine. Used alongside regular tick prevention treatment for best protection.
Complete Vaccination Schedule
| Age | Vaccines Due | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 6–8 weeks | DAP (first dose) | First vet visit — also check for parasites |
| 10–12 weeks | DAP (second dose) + Bordetella + Leptospirosis | Puppy not fully protected until series complete |
| 14–16 weeks | DAP (third dose) + Rabies | Final puppy series dose |
| 12–16 months | DAP booster + Rabies booster | First adult boosters |
| Every 1–3 years | DAP booster (frequency varies) | Some DAP vaccines last 3 years |
| Annually | Rabies, Bordetella, Leptospirosis | Depends on local law and lifestyle |
Until puppies have completed their full vaccine series (typically by 16 weeks), they are not fully protected. Avoid dog parks, unvaccinated dogs, and areas where unknown dogs congregate during this window. Socialisation is still important — arrange it in controlled, vaccinated environments.
What to Expect After Vaccination
Mild reactions after vaccination are completely normal and expected:
- Lethargy or sleepiness for 24–48 hours
- Reduced appetite the day of vaccination
- Mild soreness at the injection site
- Low-grade fever
These resolve on their own within 1–2 days. However, seek emergency veterinary care immediately if you notice facial swelling, hives, vomiting within 30 minutes of the injection, difficulty breathing, or collapse — these are signs of a rare allergic reaction (anaphylaxis).
Keep a physical vaccination record book for your dog. Many groomers, kennels, and dog parks require proof of vaccination before entry. Your vet will provide an updated certificate after each visit — store it somewhere you can easily find it.
The PawPulse Team
Researched using current veterinary guidelines. Vaccination schedules may vary by country and individual dog — always follow your vet's specific recommendations.