What Vaccines Do Dogs Need Annually?

Without proper immunization, pets are vulnerable to a range of serious illnesses that can severely impact their health and well-being. Knowing which vaccines your dog needs annually maintains your pet’s optimal immune response, potentially saving you from heartache and expensive treatments down the line.

Which Dog Vaccines Are Necessary Annually?

Core vaccines like rabies are typically required annually, while others like DA2PPv (distemper, adenovirus, parvovirus, parainfluenza) may be given every three years after the initial series. Non-core vaccinations for Bordetella, leptospirosis, influenza, and Lyme, often require annual boosters and play a vital role in protecting dogs with specific lifestyle factors or in high-risk environments.

When considering which dog vaccines are absolutely necessary annually, it’s important to focus on both core and non-core immunization. The frequency depends on your dog’s exposure risk and individual circumstances.

Core Vaccines in Dogs

Core vaccinations are what vets would usually recommend to your puppies because they protect them from life-threatening diseases. These are the four core vaccines for a dog’s immune system.

1. Rabies Vaccine

Most states regulate administering rabies vaccines as early as three months of age. This dog vaccination needs booster shots annually. I will recommend a second shot after one year, and boosters every three years. 

2. DA2PPv: Distemper, Adenovirus Type 2 (Hepatitis), Parvo, and Parainfluenza

Core pet vaccines like DA2PPv are the standard recommended annual vaccines for pets and are commonly administered at an early age with a second shot after a year. Your pet will need a booster one year after completing the initial puppy series of vaccinations. After that, adult dogs need to get a booster every three years.

• Distemper: This will protect your dog against an airborne virus that causes distemper, a real disease that may cause permanent brain damage.
• Adenovirus: DA2PPv can save your pet against symptoms of adenovirus, which spreads via infected urine and feces.
• Parvovirus: This immunization can protect your pet from canine parvo, a contagious condition that can cause severe vomiting and bloody diarrhea.
• Parainfluenza: DA2PPv can also help your dog fight back the symptoms of parainfluenza, including fever, lethargy, runny nose, dry cough, and loss of appetite.

Non-Core Vaccines in Dogs

I recommend non-core vaccinations based on a dog’s lifestyle and potential exposure to specific infectious diseases. These vaccines provide additional protection against certain conditions that may cause mild symptoms or more severe illnesses.

• Attending daycare or frequenting dog parks may need additional vaccines.
• Staying in boarding kennels while owners travel often requires specific vaccinations.
• Spending significant time outdoors may benefit from certain non-core shots.

1. Bordetella Vaccine

The Bordetella vaccine protects against Bordetella bronchiseptica. Typically administered annually, this vaccination is particularly important for pets that frequently visit doggy daycare, boarding kennels, or grooming facilities.

2. Leptospirosis Vaccine

Given annually after an initial two-dose series, the leptospirosis vaccine is for canines frequently exposed to outdoors or wildlife. This vaccination helps prevent a potentially severe bacterial infection that can damage the liver and kidneys.

3. Lyme Disease Vaccine

Administered yearly after an initial two-dose series, the Lyme vaccine protects against Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacteria transmitted by deer ticks that cause the disease. This vaccination is for pets living in or traveling to areas where the disease is prevalent.

4. Canine Influenza Vaccine

The influenza vaccine helps protect pets from two strains of dog flu, which can spread rapidly in public spaces like a dog park or boarding facility. Usually given annually after an initial two-dose series, this immunization can help prevent severe respiratory symptoms when a dog’s immune system gets compromised.

Planning Vaccinations According to Your Dog’s Needs

I can create a personalized vaccination plan based on your dog’s specific needs and risk factors:

• Age and breed
• Health history and existing medical conditions
• Indoor lifestyle and exposure to the outdoors
• Travel habits

Consider calling or booking an appointment online to discuss the most appropriate vaccination plan for your pet.

Yearly Vaccine Schedules for Different Life Stages

These schedules are tailored to each life stage, balancing the need for a dog’s protection against the frequency of annual vaccinations.

Puppies

Puppies require a series of shots, especially anti-rabies, in their first year to build a strong immune response. Your pet can expect multiple rounds of core pet vaccines every three to four weeks until 16 weeks of age.

Adult Dogs

Most vet clinics schedule adult dog vaccines every three years, depending on local regulations and the specific vaccine used. Non-core shots may be given annually based on the dog’s lifestyle and risk factors.

Elderly Dogs

Vaccination schedules should be carefully considered based on a senior dog’s health status and lifestyle. While core immunizations are important for an elder dog’s protection, some non-core shots might be discontinued if the dog’s exposure risk has decreased.

Titer Testing and Lab Tests for a Dog’s Immunization

Comprehensive lab testing, including bloodwork and urinalysis, is often recommended before administering your dog’s shots to make sure they are healthy enough for immunization. Titer testing can determine the level of antibodies in your dog’s blood and analyze whether your pet is still immune to a specific disease.

Dog Vaccines Cost 

The cost of yearly dog vaccines can vary depending on the specific vaccines required, the veterinary clinic you visit, and even your state. Marketwatch reveals the cost of owning a dog, with immunization typically priced around $20 to $40. Consider these costs as an investment in your dog’s health and long-term well-being.

Related Questions

What Injections Do Dogs Need Every Year?

Dogs typically need annual boosters for certain vaccines to maintain their immunization status and stay healthy. The most common yearly vaccines include non-core shots.

Do Vaccines Carry Risky Side Effects?

The most common side effects are fever, soreness, and lethargy for two or three days. However, preventing life-threatening diseases outweighs these reactions.

Do I Really Need to Vaccinate Puppies Every Year?

Not all vaccines for puppies require yearly boosters. While some non-core vaccines may need yearly administration, many core shots provide immunity for three years or more. 

What Are the Most Necessary Vaccines for Dogs?

The most necessary vaccines for a dog are the rabies vaccine and DA2PPv. These core immunizations protect pets against highly contagious and potentially fatal diseases.

Do Puppies Need Different Vaccines Than Grown Dogs?

Puppies need a different set of shots than adult canines do. They need to build their immunity against illnesses like distemper, parvovirus, and canine hepatitis.

Do Elderly Dogs Need Boosters?

Older canines require booster shots to maintain their immunity to specific diseases. However, this can vary depending on the dog’s health status and immunization history.

At What Age Do You Stop Vaccinating Your Dog?

Most dogs continue to receive core vaccinations throughout their lives, as there is no specific age at which immunizations should completely stop. The frequency and types of vaccines may depend on your dog’s health, lifestyle, and risk of exposure to certain diseases.

Conclusion

Being well-informed about the yearly dog vaccination schedule empowers you to be a proactive and responsible pet parent. Regular immunization schedules tailored to your dog’s needs can significantly reduce the risk of them contracting serious diseases and contribute to a longer, healthier life for your canine companion.