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dog vaccines: guides by vaccine and life stage

Dogs need routine vaccines — the DAPP combination (distemper, adenovirus, and parvovirus), leptospirosis, and rabies — along with risk-based lifestyle vaccines such as Bordetella, canine influenza, and Lyme disease. This page helps you find the right guide based on your dog's age, lifestyle, and the vaccine you're looking for.

For a complete overview of recommended vaccines, timing, and common questions, see Vaccinations for dogs: what every dog owner should know 

Ready to get started? Your Banfield veterinary team will build a vaccination plan that's right for your pet.

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More of a visual learner or just want the quick facts? Watch our handy video below.

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Routine dog vaccines

Routine vaccines help protect dogs against serious, widespread diseases and are recommended for nearly every dog. These include the DAPP combination, leptospirosis, and rabies.

Learn more about:

Routine vs. lifestyle dog vaccines

Rabies vaccine guide for vaccination requirements, booster timing, and side effects

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Lifestyle dog vaccines

Some vaccines are recommended based on your dog's lifestyle, activities, and risk of exposure. Depending on where your dog spends time, your veterinarian may recommend vaccines such as Bordetella, canine influenza, or Lyme disease.
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Dog vaccine schedule

Your dog's vaccination schedule changes throughout life. Puppies receive a series of vaccines during their first months, while adult dogs receive boosters based on the vaccine, exposure risk, and your veterinarian's recommendations.

For detailed timing, visit our Dog vaccine schedule for guidance on adult boosters or the Puppy shot schedule: a guide to vaccine needs and timing for your puppy's first-year vaccination schedule.

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Dog vaccine safety

Most dogs experience only mild, short-lived reactions after vaccination, such as temporary soreness, tiredness, or a reduced appetite. Serious reactions are uncommon, but facial swelling, hives, difficulty breathing, weakness, or collapse require immediate veterinary care.

For more information about specific vaccines, visit the Rabies vaccine guide or read more about dog vaccine side effects.

Dog vaccine FAQs

Most dogs need routine vaccines that protect against serious diseases, along with any lifestyle vaccines recommended based on their activities and risk factors. Your Banfield veterinary team can help determine which vaccines your dog needs.

Routine vaccines include the DAPP combination, leptospirosis, and rabies. These vaccines help protect against serious diseases that are widespread or pose significant health risks.

In many states and local communities, yes. Rabies vaccination requirements vary depending on where you live, so your veterinarian will recommend a schedule that follows local regulations.

For a detailed look at when vaccines are typically given, visit the Dog vaccine schedule. If you have a puppy, the Puppy shot schedule outlines the first-year vaccination series.

Lifestyle vaccines are recommended based on factors like boarding, daycare, travel, hiking, or spending time around other dogs. Your veterinarian can recommend vaccines that fit your dog's lifestyle and potential exposure risks.

Protect your dog with Banfield

Not sure which vaccines your dog needs? Schedule a wellness exam with your Banfield veterinary team to build a vaccination plan tailored to your dog's age, lifestyle, and health needs. Find a Banfield near you

Did you know that routine vaccinations are always included in Optimum Wellness Plans®?

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Veterinarian Kyle Farrell with a mountain dog
Important Notice: The information provided on this page is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Always consult a veterinarian with any questions regarding your pet's health or medical condition. Never disregard or delay seeking professional veterinary advice based on information from this page.