Vaccinations are an important part of your four-legged friend's health care. They protect not only your dog, but also other animals and humans from dangerous diseases. Learn everything about the most important vaccinations, the vaccination schedule for puppies, possible side effects, and why, despite some skepticism, it absolutely makes sense to have your dog vaccinated.
Why are vaccinations important for dogs?
Vaccinations train your dog's immune system so that he is prepared to fight certain pathogens in an emergency. Many of these diseases are fatal or cause serious health problems without protection. Vaccinations therefore help prevent suffering—not only for your dog, but also for others, as they contain the spread of dangerous viruses and bacteria.
What vaccinations are available for dogs?
Mandatory or core vaccinations (recommended for all dogs)
These vaccinations protect against particularly dangerous and widespread diseases:
-
Distemper (CDV)
A viral infection that attacks various organ systems. Often fatal. -
Parvovirus (CPV)
Highly contagious viral infection, especially dangerous for puppies. -
Canine contagious hepatitis (HCC)
Infectious liver inflammation that can lead to organ failure. -
Rabies
Fatal and transmissible to humans. Mandatory in many countries.
Optional (non-core) vaccinations
These vaccines are recommended depending on the region or type of husbandry:
-
Leptospirosis
A bacterial infection that can also be transmitted to humans (zoonosis). It is particularly common in contact with stagnant water. -
Kennel cough (parainfluenza and Bordetella bronchiseptica)
Contagious cough, especially relevant for dogs with a lot of social contact (dog school, boarding kennels, animal shelters). -
Lyme disease
Transmitted by ticks. Useful in some regions. -
Babesiosis, leishmaniasis, ehrlichiosis
Travel vaccinations for dogs traveling abroad (especially Southern Europe).
How often should dogs be vaccinated? – Vaccination schedule for dogs
Vaccination schedule for puppies
Puppies receive antibodies through their mother's milk during the first weeks of life. After that, it's time for their first vaccinations:
- 8th week of life : Basic immunization (distemper, parvovirus, HCC, leptospirosis)
- 12th week of life : Repeat + rabies (depending on the country, allowed from 12th week)
- 16th week of life : Completion of basic immunization
- 15th month : Booster vaccination for full long-term protection
Refreshers for adult dogs
- Distemper, parvovirus, HCC, rabies : every 3 years
- Leptospirosis, kennel cough : annually
- Lyme disease, travel vaccinations : depending on the vaccine, annually or biannually
Why does my dog get a bump after vaccination?
Sometimes a small, hardened swelling may appear at the vaccination site. This is usually harmless and subsides within a few days or weeks. It is caused by:
- Local reaction to the vaccine
- Mild inflammation or irritation of the tissue
- Vaccines with adjuvants (adjuvants)
If the bump persists, gets bigger, or your dog shows signs of pain, please talk to your veterinarian.
What should you consider after the vaccination?
After the vaccination, your dog may seem a little tired or lethargic—this is completely normal. Watch out for:
- No rioting on vaccination day
- Sufficient rest and water
- Monitoring for side effects (e.g. B. fever, swelling, diarrhea)
In very rare cases, allergic reactions may occur, such as shortness of breath, vomiting, or circulatory problems. In this case, consult a veterinarian immediately!
How much do dog vaccinations cost?
Prices may vary depending on the veterinarian, but here is a rough overview:
|
Vaccination |
Costs (approx.) |
|
Single vaccination |
30 – 50 € |
|
Combined vaccination (triple/quadruple) |
50 – 80 € |
|
rabies |
30 – 50 € |
|
Puppy basic immunization |
120 – 200 € total |
|
Leptospirosis annually |
30 – 40 € |
Tip: Some veterinary practices offer vaccination promotions or packages with small discounts. It's worth asking!
Anti-vaccination in dogs – what’s behind it?
As with humans, there are also critics of vaccinations for dogs. Common arguments:
- Fear of side effects
- Doubts about the necessity of annual vaccinations
- Concern about "over-vaccination"
The fact is: vaccines in Germany are subject to rigorous testing. Most side effects are mild and rare. Studies show that the risks from the disease are significantly greater than from the vaccination itself. Veterinarians are now also taking the "overvaccination" argument into account, with certain vaccines only being boostered every three years.
Worth knowing:
Vaccination certificate for dogs
Every dog receives an EU pet passport that documents all vaccinations – important for travel, dog training, or boarding kennels.
Traveling with a dog
A valid rabies vaccination is mandatory for travel abroad. Some countries require additional vaccinations or deworming. Check well in advance.
Titer determination – an alternative to annual vaccination?
A titer test can determine whether your dog still has sufficient antibodies to fight certain diseases. In some cases, this can replace a booster vaccination—talk to your veterinarian about it!
Conclusion: Vaccination protects
Even if there are some critical voices, vaccinations save lives. They protect your dog and other dogs from serious diseases and enable a long, healthy life. Get well informed and then make a responsible decision.
Additionally, you can support your dog's immune system with natural products !
