Dog vaccinations: Everything you need to know

Key takeaways

• Puppies usually start their vaccinations at around six to 10 weeks old, with a second dose typically given two to four weeks later

• Booster vaccinations are needed to maintain protection, but the frequency depends on the vaccine

• Initial puppy vaccinations cost an average of £111.73, according to ManyPets

• Standard pet insurance usually excludes routine vaccinations, although some policies offer optional preventative care benefits

When does my dog need to be vaccinated?

Puppies usually receive their first vaccinations between six and 10 weeks old, followed by a second dose around two to four weeks later.

The exact timing depends on the vaccine, the puppy’s circumstances and your vet’s advice.

Protection doesn’t develop immediately after the injections. Your vet will explain when your puppy can safely mix with other dogs and go for walks in public places.

If you get your puppy from a breeder, ask for their vaccination certificate and check which doses they’ve already received.

Puppies rehomed through a rescue organisation may also have started their vaccination course.

Adult dogs need booster vaccinations to maintain protection. Some vaccines require annual boosters, while others can protect for longer. Your vet can confirm which vaccinations your dog needs and when they’re due.

For more information about prices and timings, read our guide to how much puppy vaccinations cost.

What do dog vaccinations protect against?

Vaccinations help protect dogs against several potentially serious infectious diseases. Your vet can advise which vaccines are recommended for your dog.

Canine distemper

Distemper is a serious viral disease that can affect a dog’s respiratory, digestive and nervous systems. It can be life-threatening and may cause lasting complications in dogs that recover.

Infectious canine hepatitis

This viral infection can damage the liver and affect other organs. It can cause serious illness, particularly in young or unvaccinated dogs.

Canine parvovirus

Parvovirus is highly contagious and particularly dangerous for puppies. It can cause severe vomiting, diarrhoea and dehydration, and may be fatal without prompt veterinary treatment.

Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection that can spread through water or soil contaminated by infected animals’ urine. It can cause serious kidney and liver damage and can also infect humans.

Kennel cough

Kennel cough is a contagious respiratory illness that can cause a persistent cough. Your vet may recommend vaccination if your dog regularly mixes with other dogs, attends daycare or stays in boarding kennels.

The vaccine may be required by some kennels, so check their requirements before booking.

Rabies

Rabies vaccination may be needed if you plan to travel abroad with your dog. Rabies is not normally found in dogs in mainland Great Britain, but vaccination and other requirements may apply when travelling overseas.

Check the relevant pet travel rules and speak to your vet well before your trip.

Your vet may recommend other vaccinations depending on your dog’s lifestyle and exposure risks.

What happens at a dog vaccination appointment?

Your vet will usually carry out a health check before administering a vaccination. They may ask about your dog’s medical history, previous vaccinations and any reactions they’ve experienced.

The vaccine may be given by injection. Some vaccines, including certain kennel cough vaccines, can be administered through the nose.

Your dog may feel a little uncomfortable during the appointment, but the process is usually straightforward.

Let your vet know if your dog is particularly anxious or difficult to handle so they can help make the visit easier.

How should I prepare my dog for vaccinations?

A little preparation can help make your dog’s appointment go more smoothly.

Before you go:

• Bring your dog’s vaccination certificate and any relevant medical records

• Tell the vet about previous reactions to vaccines or any current signs of illness

• Check whether your vet has given you any specific instructions before the appointment

• Take a few small treats to reward your dog and help keep them settled

• Ask the vet when your dog can safely return to their usual walks and activities

If your dog is unwell before their appointment, contact the practice for advice. The vet can decide whether to proceed or postpone the vaccination.

How much do puppy and dog vaccinations cost?

The cost of dog vaccinations depends on the veterinary practice, where you live and which vaccines your dog needs.

According to ManyPets, the average cost of an initial puppy vaccination course is £111.73.

Other costs to consider include:

• Kennel cough vaccination: an average of £59.67 when charged separately, according to the same data

• Annual dog booster: an average of £73.43, excluding kennel cough

• Booster including kennel cough: an average of £115.15

These are average figures rather than guaranteed prices. Your vet may charge more or less, and some practices offer vaccination packages or health plans that include discounts.

The total cost will also depend on whether your dog needs additional vaccinations, catch-up doses or a new course because their previous vaccination history is unknown.

For a more detailed breakdown, see our guide to how much puppy vaccinations cost.

Does pet insurance cover dog vaccinations?

Standard pet insurance policies usually don’t cover routine vaccinations because they’re considered preventative care rather than treatment for an illness or injury.

Some policies offer optional preventative care benefits or wellness plans that contribute towards routine expenses. Check the policy wording carefully, including any limits and additional costs.

Pet insurance can still help with eligible vet bills if your dog becomes ill or has an accident. Cover varies by policy, so check the exclusions, excess and vet fee limits before buying.

Read our guides to what pet insurance covers and whether pet insurance covers vet visits.

It’s also important to keep your dog’s vaccinations up to date where recommended.

If your dog develops an illness that could have been prevented by vaccination, your policy may exclude the related treatment.

Check your insurer’s terms rather than assuming a claim will be covered.

Can I get help paying for my dog's vaccinations?

If you’re struggling to afford your dog’s vaccinations, some animal charities and veterinary schemes may offer reduced-cost treatment to eligible owners.

You could check support available through:

• Dogs Trust

• RSPCA

• PDSA

• Blue Cross

Eligibility varies. Support may depend on your income, benefits, where you live and whether a participating veterinary practice is available in your area. Contact the organisation directly to check its current services and criteria.

What are the side effects of dog vaccinations?

Most dogs tolerate vaccinations well, but some may experience mild side effects. These can include:

• Feeling tired or quieter than usual

• Mild tenderness or swelling where the injection was given

• A slightly reduced appetite

• A mild temperature

These effects are generally short-lived. Contact your vet if symptoms persist, get worse or concern you.

Serious reactions are uncommon but can occur. Seek urgent veterinary help if your dog develops difficulty breathing, collapses or experiences significant swelling of the face or throat.

If your dog has reacted to a vaccination in the past, tell your vet before their next appointment. They can discuss the risks and appropriate precautions.

How can I protect my unvaccinated dog?

Unvaccinated puppies and dogs may be more vulnerable to infectious diseases. Until your vet confirms that your puppy is sufficiently protected, take precautions to reduce exposure.

You can:

• Ask your vet when it’s safe to walk your puppy on public ground

• Avoid letting them sniff or lick faeces, standing water or potentially contaminated areas

• Avoid contact with dogs whose vaccination status is unknown

• Ask your vet about safe ways to socialise your puppy before their vaccination course is complete

• Follow your vet’s advice if you have an adult dog whose vaccinations are overdue

You don’t necessarily need to avoid all socialisation before your puppy is fully vaccinated. Your vet can help you find lower-risk ways for them to experience new people, sounds and environments.

What happens if my dog misses a vaccination booster?

If your dog has missed a booster, contact your vet rather than restarting the vaccination course yourself.

Your vet will review their vaccination records and recommend what to do next. Depending on the vaccine and how long it has been since the last dose, your dog may need a booster or additional doses.

Until you’ve received advice, ask your vet whether you should take any extra precautions around other dogs or in public places.

If you’ve adopted a rescue dog or don’t have their vaccination records, explain this to your vet. They can help establish an appropriate vaccination plan.

Do older dogs still need vaccinations?

Older dogs may still benefit from vaccinations. Age alone doesn’t determine whether a vaccine is needed, as the recommendation depends on your dog’s health, previous vaccinations, lifestyle and exposure to disease.

Your vet can review their vaccination history and discuss the benefits and risks of continuing or adjusting their vaccination schedule.

If your older dog has a long-term health condition or has previously reacted to a vaccine, mention this before their appointment.

How long do dog vaccinations last?

How long a vaccination protects your dog depends on the disease and vaccine.

Some vaccines need annual boosters, while others may provide protection for several years. Your vet will recommend a schedule based on the vaccines your dog has received and their individual circumstances.

Don’t assume that every vaccine needs repeating annually, or that your dog remains protected indefinitely after their initial course. Check your dog’s vaccination record and ask your vet when each booster is due.

What is titre testing for dogs?

A titre test is a blood test that measures antibodies against certain diseases. It can sometimes help a vet assess whether a dog has an immune response to a particular infection.

Titre testing may be worth discussing if you have a rescue dog with an uncertain vaccination history or concerns about previous vaccine reactions.

However, it isn’t a substitute for every vaccination. Testing is available for some diseases but not all, and the results need to be interpreted by a vet.

For example, titre testing isn’t generally used to determine protection against leptospirosis in the same way as it is for some core viral diseases.

Speak to your vet if you’re considering titre testing instead of a booster.

Can I vaccinate my dog myself?

You should arrange your dog’s vaccinations through a veterinary practice. A vet can assess their health, check their vaccination history, administer the appropriate vaccines and record the details.

This is particularly important if your dog has missed doses, has an unknown history or needs vaccinations for travel or boarding.

Is it worth getting pet insurance if vaccinations aren’t covered?

Pet insurance can help towards the cost of eligible veterinary treatment if your dog becomes ill or has an accident. It doesn’t usually cover routine vaccinations, but it may provide financial protection against unexpected bills.

When comparing policies, consider:

• Vet fee limits: how much the insurer will pay towards eligible treatment

• Excess and co-payments: what you’ll need to contribute to a claim

• Exclusions: including any rules relating to vaccinations or preventable illnesses

• Pre-existing conditions: whether existing or previously diagnosed conditions are excluded

• Policy type: whether the cover suits your dog’s age, health and needs

Keeping vaccinations up to date is an important part of preventative care, but it doesn’t guarantee a cheaper premium. Insurers use a range of factors when calculating prices.

Why compare pet insurance with MoneySuperMarket?

Pet insurance can help out with vet costs for your dog - and keeping their vaccinations up to date can mean lower premiums. Compare pet insurance with MoneySuperMarket to find deals from across the market that suit your pooch.