Reviewed by Dr. Fiona Lee
Vaccinating your puppy or adult dog is a vital part of raising a healthy and happy pet. Vaccines can protect your furry best friend from dangerous diseases and other pets your dog comes into contact with. But to be most effective, vaccines should be given according to your veterinarian's recommended schedule.1 This guide will help you better understand how vaccines work and what your puppy or dog needs to stay healthy.
Understanding Vaccines
Vaccinations have a twofold benefit: Not only do they protect your pet, but they also protect the community of animals your dog interacts with.2
How vaccines work
Vaccines use killed or weakened disease-causing agents (often viruses) to trigger your pet's immune system. This causes your pet to produce an immune response (aka antibodies) against that specific disease. Vaccines aren't 100% effective, but they work very well. When your pet is exposed to a disease-causing agent and has vaccine antibodies, they may either not get infected at all or have a much milder illness.1
For example, the canine rabies vaccine uses an inactivated (or killed) strain of the rabies virus that cannot cause the disease itself. After it's injected, your dog produces rabies antibodies. This means that if your dog is exposed to the live virus later (such as being bitten by an infected animal), their body will create antibodies fast and stop the virus before it can replicate and cause symptoms. Because antibodies can fade over time, your veterinarian will periodically recommend booster vaccines.3
How your dog's vaccines protect other pets
But vaccines do even more than keep your pet safe. Your dog also won't be able to pass the illness on to other animals. And if enough pets in a community are vaccinated, the population as a whole achieves herd immunity. This means the disease is much less likely to spread, even among unvaccinated pets in that community. This helps protect very young puppies who aren't vaccinated and immunocompromised dogs who don't respond well to vaccines.4
Herd immunity isn't permanent though, which is why vaccinations are still necessary in communities that achieve it. As long as the disease isn't eradicated, it can cause an outbreak if enough pet owners stop vaccinating.2
Top Vaccines for Puppies and Dogs
Vaccines for puppies and dogs can be split between core and non-core vaccines.
Diseases prevented by core vaccines
All puppies and dogs should be vaccinated against five "core" diseases whose infections are so dangerous and contagious, they could become fatal and spread rapidly.2 Even dogs that spend most of their time indoors still need these core vaccinations because of how easily the diseases spread.1 These include:
- Rabies: Rabies is always fatal in dogs. It's very contagious, spreading through bites, scratches and open wounds.5 People bitten by rabid animals should be vaccinated right away because rabies is nearly 100% fatal for humans once clinical symptoms appear.6
- Canine distemper: This severe, contagious virus attacks a dog's respiratory, gastrointestinal and nervous systems, sometimes leading to seizures, paralysis or death. It spreads easily through coughing, sneezing and shared bowls and equipment. There's no cure; treatment is supportive care.7
- Canine hepatitis: The adenovirus virus causes canine hepatitis,8 which is very contagious and can infect multiple organs.7 Symptoms can range from a slight fever and vomiting to blindness, jaundice, seizures or death. Some dogs who survive develop lifelong complications.8
- Parvovirus: Parvovirus is a very contagious virus that can cause dehydration, vomiting, diarrhea and fever so severe, it can kill within 48 to 72 hours.7
- Parainfluenza: This is one of the viruses that can cause kennel cough.7
Diseases prevented by non-core vaccines
In addition to the core vaccines, there are other vaccinations your veterinarian might recommend, based on your dog's lifestyle or risk.2 These include:
- Leptospirosis: Bacteria found in soil and water cause this disease, which is zoonotic—meaning it's contagious to people, too. Some animals are asymptomatic, and others may have vomiting, fever, diarrhea, severe weakness or even kidney failure. Antibiotics can help.7 In regions where leptospirosis is more widespread, it's sometimes included as a core vaccine.9
- Lyme disease: Caused by infected ticks, this disease can cause neurological, heart, kidney and other issues if not treated. Antibiotics can help, but relapses can occur. Tick preventives can help.7
- Bordetella: This extremely contagious bacteria can cause kennel cough, leading to vomiting, coughing and (very rarely) seizures or death. Although considered non-core, some doggy day care, boarding and other services may require it.7
- Canine influenza: This protects against H3N8 and H3N2 influenza.9 It may be needed if your dog frequently visits boarding, day care or training facilities.1
- Rattlesnake toxoid: This may be recommended in some regions, based on risk.2
- Coronavirus: This virus tends to be mild except in immunocompromised dogs or very young puppies.10
Puppy Core Vaccine Schedule
Puppies' vaccinations generally begin around 6 to 8 weeks of age, with boosters at regular intervals to ensure continued immunity.7 The schedule can differ a bit based on your region, your veterinarian's recommendations or when a breeder started the vaccines.
In general, you should expect the core vaccinations to look something like this:9
| Puppy age | Core vaccine recommendation |
| 6-8 weeks | DHPP (distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, parainfluenza) (Note: This is sometimes called DAPP, referencing the adenovirus that causes hepatitis.) |
| 8-12 weeks | DHPP: This second shot should be given two to four weeks after the first. |
| 10-16 weeks | DHPP: This third shot should be given two to four weeks after the second. |
| 14-16 weeks | Rabies: The first shot is given around this age, followed by another a year later, and then every one to three years (or as required by state law).11 |
| 16-18 weeks | Final puppy DHPP is given around this age. Adult boosters will be needed every three years. |
Adult Dog Core Vaccine Schedule
Adult dogs need updated vaccinations to keep their antibodies active.9
| Core vaccine | Recommended schedule |
| DHPP (for adult dogs never vaccinated) | If never vaccinated for DHPP before the age of 16 weeks, adult dogs should get two doses, spaced two to four weeks apart, followed by another dose one year later. |
| DHPP after initial three doses | After the initial three doses, your adult dog should get a booster DHPP shot every three years. |
| Rabies | Adult dogs should get a new rabies shot every one to three years (or as required by state law).11 |
Non-Core Vaccine Schedule for Puppies and Adult Dogs
Your veterinarian may also recommend one of the following six non-core vaccinations for your puppy or adult dog, depending on where you live and your dog's lifestyle (such as whether they spend a lot of time in doggy day care or at dog parks).7
| Vaccine type | Age recommendation | Description |
| Injectable bordetella vaccine | First dose as early as 6 weeks.7 Second dose two to four weeks later, followed by a booster every 12 months.9 | Bordetella is one of the causes of kennel cough. Vaccination may be recommended for dogs frequently around other dogs. In fact, many doggie day cares and similar services require it.7 |
| Nasal spray or oral bordetella vaccine | First dose as early as 6 weeks of age,7 followed by a booster every 12 months.9 | Bordetella is one of the causes of kennel cough. Vaccination may be recommended for dogs frequently around other dogs. In fact, many doggie day cares and similar services require it.7 |
| Leptospirosis | First dose as early as 12 weeks of age, followed by a second dose two to four weeks later, then administered every year after.9 | This bacteria is found in soil and water7 and is transmitted by wildlife. It may be recommended as a core vaccine in areas where it's more endemic.9 |
| Lyme disease | First dose as early as 10 weeks of age,7 followed by a second dose two to four weeks later. Boosters can then be given every year.9 | This vaccine may be recommended as a core vaccine in areas where it's more endemic.9 |
| Canine influenza | First dose as early as 10 weeks of age.7 Next dose two to four weeks later, followed by boosters annually.9 | This may be recommended if your dog is frequently around other dogs, such as at a boarding or day care facility.1 |
| Coronavirus | First dose as early as 1 year of age. Then every one to two years after.7 | This is not on the list recommended by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA).9 It's usually not life-threatening. A veterinarian may still recommend it for very young puppies or immunocompromised dogs.10 |
| Rattlesnake toxoid | Based on dog's body weight and exposure risk.9 | The AAHA recommends dosing and frequency based on a dog's body weight and exposure risk.9 |
Vaccine Reactivity and Side Effects
If your veterinarian recommends a vaccine, it's because they consider the vaccine less risky than the disease itself.1 In fact, most vaccines are considered so safe that veterinarians even give them to pregnant dogs.12 Still, your dog may experience mild side effects, and there are some rare adverse reactions you should keep an eye out for.
Mild vaccine reactions
Mild reactions may start within hours of a vaccination and go away in about a day:1
- Injection site swelling or tenderness
- Fatigue
- Low fever
- Decreased appetite
If your dog received an intranasal vaccine, they may also sneeze or have a mild cough for about two to five days after the vaccination.1
Severe, rare vaccine reactions
In rare situations, a dog may have a serious anaphylactic reaction right after vaccination or up to 48 hours later.13 Severe reactions you will want to watch for include:1
- Fainting
- Trouble breathing
- Hives (appearing as red, itchy bumps)
- Swelling around the face or neck
- Severe coughing
- Severe vomiting or diarrhea
If your dog has a severe reaction, go to an emergency veterinarian ASAP. If your dog has a mild reaction that lasts more than a day, or swelling at the injection site that lasts more than three weeks or gets larger or more painful, contact your veterinarian.1
There are a few things you can do to help reduce your dog's reaction to a vaccine. If your dog has reacted to a vaccine before, your veterinarian may recommend premedicating them with diphenhydramine and spacing out their vaccines. Your veterinarian may also want to ensure your dog is monitored closely when a vaccine is given. Since many dogs are actually only reacting to one of their vaccines, giving them their vaccines one at a time and spacing them out over the course of a few weeks may keep a reaction from happening.
Legal Considerations
While some vaccine choices are up to you and your veterinarian, others may be required by your local or state law (including for indoor-only pets).1 For example, because rabies poses such a huge public health risk and has such a high fatality rate,14 many states require that dogs be vaccinated.15 However, the exact time frames can vary, including how often your adult dog needs to be revaccinated.
Your veterinarian will know which vaccinations are required by law (or which might be typically required by local boarding facilities and other services). You'll also be given a certificate that shows your dog is up to date on their vaccines.
The Benefits of Vaccinating Your Dog
If you're still debating vaccinations, keep these benefits in mind:1
- Protection from life-threatening illnesses or diseases that can be expensive to treat
- Protecting other animals your pet encounters
- No restrictions from dog parks,16 boarding, doggy day care, obedience classes and other services and facilities that may require vaccinations
- Compliance with local and state laws, as relevant
- Peace of mind
If you're wondering about the price of vaccinations, pet insurance plans like Pets Best offer wellness policies that can help you cover the cost.
Vaccinations Are a Smart Choice
Making sure your pet has up-to-date vaccinations is a vital part of keeping your dog healthy and happy. You'll also play an important role in protecting other dogs and puppies in your community! Consult with your veterinarian about developing a tailored vaccination plan for all your furry companions.
Pets Best Can Help You Keep Your Dog Healthy
Purchasing pet insurance is a great way to help you protect your dog from diseases and illnesses they may encounter growing up. At Pets Best, our puppy and dog insurance plans can be customized for your pet's unique needs, including wellness policies that can help you cover vaccination costs. In addition, Pets Best policyholders can speak to a veterinary expert anytime through a 24/7 Pet Helpline.
Sources/Citations
1. "Vaccinations," American Veterinary Medical Association, https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/vaccinations, accessed April 11, 2024.
2. "2022 AAHA canine vaccination guidelines," (2022), American Animal Hospital Association, https://www.aaha.org/aaha-guidelines/2022-aaha-canine-vaccination-guidelines/home/, accessed April 11, 2024.
3. "Rabies vaccination for dogs," Casey Blizzard (11/2020), Today's Veterinary Nurse, https://todaysveterinarynurse.com/preventive-medicine/rabies-vaccination-for-dogs/, accessed April 11, 2024.
4. "The role of vaccination in public health: Protecting your pet and community," (11/2023), Rivergate Veterinary Clinic, https://www.rivergateveterinaryclinic.com/site/blog/2023/11/22/vaccination-public-health-pet-community, accessed April 11, 2024.
5. "Top 12 things to know about dog rabies," Lake City Animal Hospital, https://lakecityanimalhospital.com/blog/top-12-things-to-know-about-dog-rabies/, accessed April 11, 2024.
6. "Rabies," (9/2023), World Health Organization, https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/rabies, accessed April 11, 2024.
7. "Your complete guide to first-year puppy vaccinations," (3/2024), American Kennel Club, https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/puppy-shots-complete-guide/, accessed April 11, 2024.
8. "Hepatitis in dogs: Symptoms, prognosis & treatment," (10/2020), Western Carolina Regional Animal Hospital & Veterinary Emergency Hospital, https://www.wcrah.com/site/blog-flat-rock-vet/2020/10/30/hepatitis-dogs-symptoms-prognosis-treatment, accessed April 11, 2024.
9. "Recommendations for core and noncore canine vaccines," (2022), American Animal Hospital Association, https://www.aaha.org/aaha-guidelines/2022-aaha-canine-vaccination-guidelines/recommendations-for-core-and-noncore-canine-vaccines/, accessed April 11, 2024.
10. "Canine coronavirus vaccine and COVID-19," (4/2020), Animal Care Clinic, https://animalcarevets.com/canine-coronavirus-vaccine-and-covid-19/, accessed April 11, 2024.
11."Dog rabies vaccine schedule," (7/2022), Cumberland Animal Clinic, https://www.cumberlandanimalclinic.com/site/blog/2022/07/15/dog-rabies-vaccine-schedule, accessed April 11, 2024.
12. "The importance of vaccinating your cat or dog," (8/2021), Carrollton Animal Hospital, https://carrolltonanimal.com/the-importance-of-vaccinating-your-cat-or-dog/, accessed April 11, 2024.
13. "How to handle a vaccine reaction in your dog," (1/2021), Guilford-Jamestown Veterinary Hospital, https://www.guilfordjamestownvet.com/site/blog-greensboro-vet/2021/01/28/vaccine-reaction-dog, accessed April 11, 2024.
14. "Rabies," (2022), American Animal Hospital Association, https://www.aaha.org/aaha-guidelines/2022-aaha-canine-vaccination-guidelines/key-vaccination-considerations-by-antigen/rabies/, accessed April 11, 2024.
15. "Dog vaccinations," Lombard Veterinary Hospital, https://www.lombardvet.com/services/dogs/dog-vaccinations, accessed April 11, 2024.
16. "Vaccine hesitancy gives some US dog, cat owners cold feet," Coco Lederhouse (1/2024), American Veterinary Medical Association, https://www.avma.org/news/vaccine-hesitancy-gives-some-us-dog-cat-owners-cold-feet, accessed April 11, 2024.