Vaccinations are one of the most effective ways to protect your dog from serious and preventable diseases. Advances in veterinary science have made vaccines safer and more effective than ever, offering protection against both well-known and emerging illnesses.
Staying on schedule with vaccinations helps keep your pup healthy from puppyhood through their senior years.
Core vs. Lifestyle Vaccines
Dog vaccines fall into two main categories:
Core Vaccines
These are essential for all dogs, regardless of lifestyle:
- DA2PP/DHPP/DAPP: Protects against distemper, adenovirus-2 (hepatitis), parvovirus, and parainfluenza.
- Rabies: Legally required in the U.S. due to its fatal and zoonotic nature.
- Leptospirosis (Lepto): Now considered core in many areas due to its spread in both rural and urban settings.
Lifestyle Vaccines
These are recommended based on your dog’s environment and daily activities:
- Bordetella (Kennel Cough)
- Lyme Disease
- Canine Influenza (H3N2/H3N8)
- Rattlesnake Vaccine (Crotalus atrox)
Your veterinarian will help determine which lifestyle vaccines fit your dog’s needs.
Puppy Vaccine Schedule
Puppies need a series of vaccinations every 2–4 weeks until at least 16 weeks old. Some breeds or high-risk puppies may need shots until 18–20 weeks.
| Age | Core Vaccines | Lifestyle Vaccines |
|---|---|---|
| 6–8 weeks | DAP (DHPP/DAPP) | Bordetella, Parainfluenza |
| 10–12 weeks | DHLPP | Lyme, Canine Influenza |
| 14–16 weeks | DHLPP, Rabies (by law if required) | Lyme, Canine Influenza |
Tip: While socializing before vaccines are complete, use a stroller or backpack carrier to keep puppies safe.
Adult Dog Vaccine Schedule
Adult dogs need ongoing vaccinations, usually a mix of annual and every-three-year shots.
| Frequency | Core Vaccines | Lifestyle Vaccines |
|---|---|---|
| Annually | Rabies (initial), Leptospirosis | Lyme, Canine Influenza, Bordetella |
| Every 3 years | DAP, Rabies (after initial series) | Not available for lifestyle vaccines |
If your dog is overdue, your vet may recommend boosters or restarting certain series.
Diseases Prevented by Dog Vaccines
- Rabies: Fatal neurological disease, zoonotic, required by law.
- Distemper: Causes fever, pneumonia, neurologic disease, often fatal.
- Adenovirus (Hepatitis): Leads to liver and kidney failure.
- Parvovirus: Severe gastrointestinal illness, highly contagious.
- Bordetella/Parainfluenza: Cause kennel cough, common in group settings.
- Canine Influenza: Highly contagious respiratory illness.
- Leptospirosis: Causes kidney/liver failure, zoonotic, found even in cities.
- Lyme Disease: Tick-borne illness causing lameness, fever, kidney issues.
Vaccine Costs for Dogs and Puppies
Vaccine costs vary by region and provider:
- Core vaccines (DHLPP/DAPP): $20–$60 per shot
- Rabies: $20–$30
- Lifestyle vaccines: Typically under $100 each
Cost-Saving Options:
- Local shelters often offer low-cost or free vaccine clinics.
- Pet insurance wellness plans may cover some or all vaccine costs.
Possible Side Effects of Vaccines
Most side effects are mild and temporary, including:
- Soreness or swelling at injection site
- Mild fever
- Low energy or appetite
- Seek veterinary care immediately if your dog shows signs of severe reaction:
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Swelling of face/muzzle
- Difficulty breathing or coughing
- Hives or itchy skin
Always inform your vet if your pet has had past reactions.
