What Is the Recommended Vaccine Schedule for Dogs?

Keeping your dog up to date on vaccinations is one of the most important steps you can take to protect their long-term health. Vaccines help prevent serious, sometimes fatal, diseases and also reduce the spread of illness among pets in the community. At Dr. Mike’s Affordable Vet Care, we often hear pet owners ask what vaccines their dog really needs and when.

Why Vaccines Matter for Dogs

Vaccinations work by safely exposing your dog’s immune system to a small, controlled component of a disease-causing organism. This allows the body to build immunity without your dog becoming ill. Puppies are especially vulnerable because their immune systems are still developing, but adult dogs also need ongoing protection through booster shots to maintain immunity throughout their lives.

Core vs. Non-Core Vaccines

Veterinarians generally classify dog vaccines into two categories: core and non-core. Core vaccines are recommended for all dogs because they protect against widespread, highly contagious, or life-threatening diseases. Non-core vaccines are given based on a dog’s lifestyle, environment, travel habits, and risk of exposure.

Core vaccines for dogs typically include:

• Rabies

• Distemper

• Parvovirus

• Adenovirus (Canine Hepatitis)

Non-core vaccines may include:
• Bordetella (kennel cough)

• Leptospirosis

• Lyme disease

•  Canine influenza

Your veterinarian will help determine which non-core vaccines are appropriate for your dog.

Recommended Puppy Vaccine Schedule

Puppies receive a series of vaccinations starting at a young age because the protection they get from their mother gradually wears off.

• 6-8 weeks: First DHPP vaccine (Distemper, Hepatitis/Adenovirus, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus)

• 10-12 weeks: Second DHPP booster

• 14-16 weeks: Third DHPP booster and first Rabies vaccine

• Optional (based on risk): Bordetella, Leptospirosis, Lyme, or Canine Influenza

This series is critical to ensure full protection as your puppy’s immune system matures.

Adult Dog Vaccine Schedule

Once your dog reaches adulthood, boosters are needed to maintain immunity.

• Rabies: Every 1 or 3 years, depending on state law and vaccine type

• DHPP: Every 1-3 years, based on your veterinarian’s recommendation

• Non-core vaccines: Typically given annually or as needed, depending on exposure risk

Regular wellness exams allow your veterinarian to tailor the schedule to your dog’s health and lifestyle.

Senior Dogs and Vaccinations

Senior dogs may still need vaccines, but the schedule may be adjusted based on overall health, existing medical conditions, and lifestyle. Your veterinarian may recommend fewer non-core vaccines while continuing essential protection against serious diseases.

Take the Next Step with Dr. Mike’s Affordable Vet Care

Following a recommended vaccine schedule is a simple yet powerful way to protect your dog from preventable diseases at every stage of life. From puppyhood through the senior years, timely vaccinations support a healthier, longer life for your pet while helping keep the broader pet community safe.

If you’re unsure whether your dog is up to date on vaccinations or want help creating a personalized vaccine plan, schedule a wellness exam with Dr. Mike’s Affordable Vet Care today.  Visit our office in Arlington, Texas, or call (817) 663-8160 to book an appointment.