What vaccinations does my puppy need?

Getting your new pup vaccinated will protect them from common infectious diseases. Without this protection, your dog could develop serious illnesses which could have lasting effects, and even be life-threatening. So it’s important to get your puppy vaccinated at the right time. 

Core vaccinations are those recommended for all dogs. Your vet may suggest extras, depending on your lifestyle and plans. 

When should my puppy be vaccinated?

Puppies have some protection from disease in their first few weeks of life, from the antibodies in their mother’s milk. These antibodies will fall, so pups need to develop their own immunity through vaccination.

Most puppies should get the first of their core vaccinations from six weeks of age. They should receive a second vaccine two to four weeks later, depending on the puppy’s age and the vaccine brand. Speak to your vet about best timings for your pup. They’ll need to see your puppy’s vaccination paperwork. If you’ve bought your dog from a responsible breeder, they should be able to supply you with this.

If you’re adopting from Dogs Trust, your puppy will already have had their first set of vaccinations. Usually, they'll need to return to us for their second set. If you arrange for this to happen at your own vet, please show them the puppy's paperwork. This is so they can check that they stock a compatible vaccine. 

Vaccinations can take days or weeks to be fully effective – your vet will be able to tell you more. This is also a good time to put in place a flea, tick and worming regime for your pup. Until your puppy’s vaccinations have taken effect, you won’t be able to take them for walks outside. You should also keep them away from lakes, rivers and stagnant water.

It’s important, though, to continue to introduce your pup to the outside world. 

Booster and top-up vaccinations for your dog

As well as their initial set, your dog will need booster vaccinations every year.

Your vet can tell you what’s needed – it’ll depend on the individual risk to your dog and the brand of vaccines used.

As well as a first-year booster, your pup will typically need:

• a top-up dose of leptospirosis vaccine every year
• top-up doses of canine adenovirus, canine parvovirus and canine distemper vaccines every three years.

Checking the cost of puppy vaccinations

To help you budget, you can check the costs of puppy vaccinations (and other routine vet care) with your local vet before starting your search for a dog. Your vet practice may offer care plans (pay monthly or yearly) to spread the cost of essential pet care such as flea and worming treatment, vaccinations and neutering.

These plans may also include (check with your vet) - a yearly booster vaccination, health checks, dental and neutering procedures, and a sample bag of pet food. Some might also send preventative treatment by post. It’s important to note these health plans are not an alternative to insurance, which is recommended in addition.

If you already have a pup, but are struggling to cover costs, charities such as PDSA and Blue Cross may be able to help. This depends on your circumstances and your location.