Dog Vaccine Schedule: What Shots and When, Puppy to Adult

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Dog Vaccine Schedule: What Shots and When, Puppy to Adult

Puppies need a series of core vaccines, usually starting around 6-8 weeks and repeated every 3-4 weeks until at least 16 weeks of age, because a mother's antibodies can block earlier doses. After that, dogs get a booster at around one year, then core boosters every 1-3 years for life. Your vet tailors the exact plan to your dog and local disease risk.

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Core vs non-core vaccines

Core vaccines protect against diseases that are widespread, severe, or dangerous to people, and every dog should have them. These cover distemper, adenovirus (hepatitis), parvovirus, and rabies. Non-core (lifestyle) vaccines are recommended based on where you live and what your dog does, such as leptospirosis, kennel cough (Bordetella and parainfluenza), and canine influenza.

The typical puppy timeline

Most puppies follow a pattern like this: a first combined core dose at 6-8 weeks, a second at 10-12 weeks, and a third at 14-16 weeks. Some puppies get a fourth dose around 18-20 weeks if risk is high. Rabies is usually given once at 12-16 weeks, depending on local law. Keep your puppy away from unvaccinated dogs and high-traffic public ground until about a week after the final core dose.

Keep every date in one place so you never miss a booster window.

Adult and senior boosters

At roughly one year old, your dog gets a booster that locks in long-term immunity. After that, core boosters are commonly given every three years, while some lifestyle vaccines like leptospirosis and kennel cough are yearly because immunity is shorter. Senior dogs still need protection; age alone is not a reason to stop, though your vet may adjust the plan for chronic illness.

What to expect after a shot

Mild tiredness, a slightly reduced appetite, or a small firm lump at the injection site are common and settle within a day or two. Let your dog rest and offer water. Serious reactions are rare but need fast action.

A small, firm lump at the injection site is common and usually fades within weeks.

Keeping records straight

Ask for a written or app-based record after every visit, noting the vaccine names, dates, and next-due dates. Boarding kennels, groomers, daycares, and travel often require proof. If you move or change vets, this record prevents unnecessary repeat vaccines.

Living context by region

This guide is written for multi-region English readers (US/UK/AU/NZ/CA/EU and more). Where climate, products, or vet access differ, prefer local veterinary advice and local product labels. Use metric first; keep °F/lb in mind for North American homes.

When to call your vet

• Signs are getting worse over hours, not better

• Pain, persistent vomiting/diarrhea, or neurological signs

• You needed force or guesswork to keep going at home

Common mistakes

• Waiting because the animal 'still looks okay' while prey species hide pain

• Changing five variables at once so you cannot tell what helped

• Copying drug doses from social media

• Skipping species-appropriate husbandry while buying more gadgets

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