Last reviewed October 2026. This guide is educational and is not veterinary advice. Vaccine schedules vary by country, region and individual dog, so always follow your own vet’s plan and local laws.
⚡ Quick answer
Puppies usually start core vaccines at 6 to 8 weeks old and get boosters every 2 to 4 weeks until they are at least 16 weeks old. Core vaccines protect against distemper, parvovirus, adenovirus (hepatitis), parainfluenza, rabies and, according to recent guidance, leptospirosis. After the one-year booster, many adult dogs need some core vaccines only every 3 years, while others are given yearly. Your vet will tailor the plan to your dog’s risk, lifestyle and local law.
✅ Key takeaways
- Puppies need several doses, because antibodies from their mother can block early vaccines.
- Core vaccines are for every dog. Non-core vaccines depend on lifestyle and location.
- Rabies timing and boosters are set by local law.
- Do not stop socializing your puppy. Ask your vet how to do it safely during the vaccine series.
- Keep a vaccination record and put booster dates in your phone calendar.
Core vs non-core vaccines
Veterinary guidelines, including those from the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), divide dog vaccines into two groups. Core vaccines protect against serious, widespread diseases and are recommended for virtually every dog. Non-core vaccines are added when your dog’s environment or activities raise the risk.
*Many vets and recent guidance treat leptospirosis as core, while some older sources and regions still list it as risk-based. Ask your vet what applies where you live.
Puppy vaccination schedule
This is a typical pattern. Your vet may adjust the timing based on your puppy’s health, risk and the products they use.
💡 Did you know? A puppy is generally considered fully protected about one to two weeks after the final core dose given at 16 weeks or later. Until your vet confirms this, avoid high-risk places such as dog parks and communal areas where unvaccinated dogs go.
Adult dog vaccine schedule
What are titer tests?
A titer test measures the level of antibodies in your dog’s blood. Some owners and vets use titers for distemper and parvovirus to help decide whether a booster is needed. They are not accepted for rabies in most places. Some vets feel titers are more costly or less certain than a regular schedule, so discuss the options with your vet.
Watch: dog vaccines explained by a veterinarian
This educational video features a veterinarian explaining core and lifestyle vaccines, the puppy schedule, boosters and titers. It is included for information only and is not affiliated with PetBoo.
Possible side effects after vaccination
🟢 Usually mild
- Tiredness for a day
- Slightly reduced appetite
- Mild soreness or a small lump where the shot was given
🔴 Call your vet right away
- Swelling of the face or muzzle
- Hives or intense itching
- Repeated vomiting or diarrhea
- Difficulty breathing, collapse or extreme lethargy
If your dog has had a reaction before, tell your vet before the next shot. See also our guide on the signs your dog may be unwell and our new puppy checklist.
How to socialize a puppy safely
- Ask your vet what is safe in your area before your puppy completes the series.
- Arrange playdates with healthy, fully vaccinated dogs in a clean, private space.
- Carry your puppy around the neighborhood to experience sounds, sights and people.
- Choose puppy classes that require proof of vaccination.
- Avoid dog parks, pet stores’ floors and busy public areas until your vet says it is safe.
🧠 Quick quiz
At what age do most puppies start core vaccines?
Most puppies start around 6 to 8 weeks of age.
Why do puppies need more than one dose?
Antibodies from the mother can interfere with early doses, so repeated doses make sure the puppy’s own immunity develops as those antibodies fade.
Who decides how often rabies boosters are needed?
Local law and the vaccine label. Your vet will tell you what applies in your area.
Frequently asked questions
What shots do puppies need?
All puppies need core vaccines: the combination DHPP vaccine, rabies, and in many practices leptospirosis. Non-core vaccines such as Bordetella, canine influenza and Lyme are added based on risk.
When can my puppy go outside after vaccines?
Ask your vet. In general, avoid high-risk public places until the series is complete, which is usually one to two weeks after the final dose at 16 weeks or later.
How often do adult dogs need vaccines?
After the one-year booster, many core vaccines are given every 3 years, while leptospirosis and some non-core vaccines are usually yearly. Rabies follows local law.
Are dog vaccines safe?
Most dogs tolerate vaccines well and have only mild, short-term effects. Serious reactions are rare but possible, so stay with your dog after the visit and call your vet if something seems wrong.
Can I skip non-core vaccines?
Maybe, if your dog’s risk is low, but some non-core diseases are serious and some boarding or grooming facilities require them. Talk to your vet about your dog’s lifestyle.
What if my dog missed a booster?
Call your vet. Depending on how long it has been, your dog may need one dose or a restart of the series.
Final thoughts
Vaccines are one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your dog from serious disease. Start early, finish the puppy series, keep records and talk with your vet about a plan that fits your dog. For more detail, read Whole Dog Journal’s vaccine explainer and the UC Davis veterinary vaccination guidelines.
This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary advice.
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