Core vs. Non-Core Dog Vaccines
Dog vaccines are divided into two categories:
Dogs
Dog Injection Schedule: Complete Vaccination Guide for Puppies and Adults
Published 2026-05-03 • 10 min read
Vaccinations are one of the most important investments in your dog's long-term health. A proper injection schedule protects your dog from serious and sometimes fatal diseases — and helps protect the broader pet population through herd immunity. This guide covers the complete dog vaccination schedule from puppy shots through adult boosters, including core and non-core vaccines.
Educational guide only. This article does not replace a veterinary exam, diagnosis, or emergency care.
Core Vaccines
Core vaccines are recommended for all dogs regardless of lifestyle or location. They protect against diseases that are widespread, severe, or transmissible to humans:
These are often given as combination shots — the DHPP or DA2PP vaccine covers distemper, adenovirus, parvovirus, and parainfluenza in one injection.
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- Distemper
- Adenovirus (Hepatitis)
- Parvovirus
- Rabies
Non-Core Vaccines
Non-core vaccines are given based on risk factors including geographic location, lifestyle, and exposure potential:
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- Bordetella (Kennel Cough) — for dogs that board, visit dog parks, or groomers
- Leptospirosis — for dogs exposed to wildlife or standing water
- Lyme Disease — for dogs in tick-endemic areas
- Canine Influenza — for dogs with high social exposure
Puppy Vaccination Schedule
Puppies receive maternal antibodies through their mother's milk, which gradually wane. Vaccinations begin at 6–8 weeks to build the puppy's own immunity before this protection fades.
6–8 Weeks
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- DHPP (first dose)
- Bordetella (if going to daycare, boarding, or dog parks)
10–12 Weeks
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- DHPP (second dose)
- Leptospirosis (first dose, if recommended by vet)
- Lyme disease (first dose, if in endemic area)
14–16 Weeks
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- DHPP (third dose)
- Rabies (first dose — required by law in most regions)
- Leptospirosis (second dose, if applicable)
- Lyme disease (second dose, if applicable)
12–16 Months
Note: Some vets use a 3-year DHPP protocol after the initial series is complete. Always follow your vet's guidance based on your dog's risk profile.
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- DHPP booster
- Rabies booster
- All applicable non-core vaccine boosters
Adult Dog Vaccination Schedule
After the puppy series and 12-month boosters, adult dogs follow a maintenance schedule:
Every 1 Year
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- Rabies (some states/countries allow a 3-year vaccine after the first booster)
- Bordetella (annually or every 6 months for high-exposure dogs)
- Leptospirosis
- Canine Influenza (if at risk)
Every 3 Years
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- DHPP (distemper, adenovirus, parvovirus combo) — per WSAVA guidelines, after the initial series
- Rabies (if using the 3-year formulation — check local law)
Important Notes on Vaccine Timing
Puppies must complete the full series for immunity to be reliable. Missing doses or spacing them incorrectly leaves a window of vulnerability to parvovirus and distemper — two diseases with high mortality in puppies.
Adult dogs that are overdue for vaccines may need their series restarted depending on how long the gap has been. Your vet can run titer tests to measure current antibody levels if you're unsure of vaccination history.
Side Effects and Vaccine Safety
Vaccines are generally safe. Mild side effects are normal and include:
Serious reactions are rare but can include facial swelling, hives, vomiting, or collapse (anaphylaxis). Contact your vet immediately if your dog shows these signs within a few hours of vaccination.
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- Soreness at the injection site
- Low-grade fever
- Mild lethargy for 24–48 hours
Frequently Asked Questions
Puppy vaccinations begin at 6–8 weeks of age. The DHPP series is typically given every 3–4 weeks until 16 weeks, followed by a booster at 12 months.
Yes, in most U.S. states and many countries, rabies vaccination is legally required. Requirements vary on frequency — check your local regulations.
Core vaccines like DHPP are typically given every 3 years after the puppy series is complete. Rabies and some non-core vaccines are given annually. Your vet will tailor a schedule to your dog.
Delays increase the window during which your puppy is vulnerable to serious disease. If a vaccine is missed, reschedule as soon as possible and inform your vet.
Yes. Even indoor dogs can be exposed to airborne disease (like distemper), parasites, or rabies if they ever go outside. Core vaccines are recommended for all dogs regardless of lifestyle.