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What you need to know about vaccinating your dog

RSPCA Australia
Friday, 9 October 2026

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What vaccinations does my dog need?

Vaccinations are an important part of caring for your dog as they can reduce the risk and severity of infectious diseases such as canine distemper virus, canine adenovirus and canine parvovirus which may cause severe illness or even death.

The general information below is based on the 2024 World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) vaccination guidelines and advice from the Australian Veterinary Association, but it’s important to remember that every dog is different. Your veterinarian is always the best person to guide you on what’s right for your dog.

Core vaccines: the essentials for every dog

Core vaccines are recommended for all dogs, no matter where they live or their lifestyle. These vaccines protect against the most serious infectious diseases that can affect dogs.

In Australia, core vaccines cover canine distemper virus, canine adenovirus and canine parvovirus. They’re usually given together in a single injection known as the C3 vaccine. Because these diseases can be life-threatening, core vaccines form the foundation of every dog’s vaccination plan.

Non-core vaccines: based on lifestyle and risk

Non-core vaccines are recommended depending on your dog’s individual circumstances. Your veterinarian will consider factors such as where you live, how often your dog mixes with other dogs, and whether they’re exposed to certain environments or animals.

In Australia, non-core vaccines include those that protect against canine parainfluenza virus and Bordetella bronchiseptica, both of which contribute to kennel cough. It is often recommended that dogs who regularly come into contact with other dogs or visit places that other dogs frequent (e.g., parks, dog day-care, puppy preschool, dog training classes or boarding facilities) receive these vaccines. When combined with core vaccines, this is commonly called the C5 vaccine.

Another non-core vaccine protects against leptospirosis, a disease spread through contact with contaminated water or infected animals such as rodents or livestock. Leptospirosis can also infect humans. Dogs who have access to stagnant water or live in higher-risk areas may benefit from this vaccination. Your veterinarian will assess the local risk and discuss whether it’s appropriate for your dog.

Australia is rabies-free, so dogs staying within the country don’t require a rabies vaccination. However, if you plan to travel overseas with your dog, additional vaccinations and preparations will be needed.

Your veterinarian may recommend other non-core vaccines based on your dog’s specific risk profile.

Vaccinating puppies: getting the timing right

Current vaccination guidelines recommend that puppies are given their first core vaccine at 6 - 8 weeks of age, with booster doses given every 2-4 weeks until they are at least 16 weeks old. While puppies generally receive some early protection from their mother (via maternal antibodies), this protection fades at different rates and can interfere with vaccine response. Completing the vaccination course at 16 weeks or older helps ensure effective immunity.

A booster at around 6 months of age is recommended.

It is vital that puppies have appropriate and positive life experiences to prepare them for a successful and happy life. This includes the need for appropriate socialisation during the puppies’ sensitive period which occurs prior to them being fully vaccinated, but steps should be taken to minimise disease risk. The Australian Veterinary Association advises that options for socialising puppies prior to full vaccination include well run reputable puppy classes held indoors and fully vaccinated healthy pets in their residences. Until vaccinations are complete, it’s best to avoid high-risk areas such as dog parks and other places frequented by dogs of unknown health and vaccination status.

What about adult dogs?

Once your dog has completed their puppy vaccinations and booster, core vaccines are usually given every 1- 3 years depending on the vaccine used. Veterinarians may use serological testing to guide revaccination intervals. Non-core vaccines, such as kennel cough and leptospirosis, are generally required annually.

Different veterinarians may use different vaccines and vaccination protocols, so it is best to check with your veterinarian which they use.

Even if your dog isn’t due for vaccinations every year, regular veterinary health checks are still important. Your veterinarian will always assess your dog’s health before vaccinating, and serious vaccine reactions are rare. The benefits of protection far outweigh the risks.

If you ever have questions or concerns about your dog’s vaccinations, a quick chat with your veterinarian can help you feel confident you’re making the best choice for your dog.

For more information, visit the RSPCA Knowledgebase

This piece was originally published in Australian Community Media newspapers.

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What you need to know about vaccinating your dog

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