Dog Vaccination Schedule by Age (2026): Complete Puppy & Adult Guide

Why a vaccination schedule matters

Vaccinating on time is one of the most effective things you can do for your dog. Maternal antibodies from the mother typically wane between 6 and 16 weeks of age, leaving puppies vulnerable to potentially fatal diseases such as canine parvovirus, distemper, and rabies. The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) recommends a structured series of puppy boosters during this window precisely because no single dose can be guaranteed to overcome maternal antibodies. Following an age-based schedule — rather than a single shot — is what builds reliable, long-lasting immunity.

Puppy vaccination schedule (6–16 weeks)

Most puppies need three to four rounds of core vaccines spaced 3–4 weeks apart. Core vaccines protect against diseases that are widespread, severe, or transmissible to humans. Non-core vaccines depend on lifestyle and region.

Adult booster schedule

After the 1-year booster, AAHA recommends DAPP every 3 years rather than annually for most adult dogs. Rabies is given every 1–3 years depending on local law. Non-core vaccines (Leptospirosis, Bordetella, Lyme, Canine Influenza) typically require annual boosters because immunity is shorter. Senior dogs (7+ years) often benefit from titer testing to confirm protection before re-vaccinating, which your vet can run from a small blood sample.

Regional differences: US, UK, Korea

• United States: Rabies is required by law in most states. DHPP/DAPP is universal; Lyme is common in the Northeast and Upper Midwest.
• United Kingdom: Rabies is not legally required for pet dogs that don't travel, but is mandatory for the Pet Travel Scheme. DHP and Leptospirosis are the standard core in UK practice.
• Korea: DHPPL (DAPP + Leptospirosis), Corona, Kennel Cough, and Rabies are standard. Korean clinics commonly run 5 rounds spaced 2–3 weeks apart, finishing around 16 weeks.

Cost ranges and side effects

A full puppy series typically costs USD 75–250 in the US, GBP 60–120 in the UK, and KRW 150,000–300,000 in Korea, depending on clinic and optional vaccines. Mild side effects — soreness at the injection site, low fever, or 24 hours of reduced energy — are common and normal. Seek a vet immediately if you notice facial swelling, hives, persistent vomiting, difficulty breathing, or collapse within hours of vaccination, as these can signal an anaphylactic reaction.

Track every shot in one place

PetCare AI's care calendar lets you log each vaccine and sends reminders for upcoming boosters. You can also ask the AI vet assistant lifestyle questions — for example, whether your dog needs a Lyme vaccine — and find a nearby clinic without leaving the app. Always confirm the final schedule with your local veterinarian, who can adjust timing based on breed, health status, and regional disease prevalence.