By Dial A Vet Veterinary Team
Most owners agree vaccines matter. The questions start when the reminder card arrives. Does a ten-year-old dog really need another one? Is yearly too often? What if we missed last year? Vaccination is one of the most effective things you can do for your dog's health, and it works best when the plan fits your dog. These are the questions vets hear most often in Australian clinics, with honest answers.
Key takeaways
- Every dog should have core vaccines against parvovirus, distemper and hepatitis (the C3).
- Kennel cough and leptospirosis vaccines are added depending on lifestyle and where you live.
- Adult core boosters are often given every three years, while kennel cough and leptospirosis are usually yearly.
- Serious vaccine reactions are rare. Facial swelling, vomiting or collapse after a vaccine needs urgent care.
- If vaccines have lapsed, your vet can restart protection. It is rarely too late.
- Related: leptospirosis in dogs, puppy diseases, kennel cough.
Why vaccinate at all?
Parvovirus, distemper and infectious hepatitis are still around in Australia. Parvovirus in particular causes outbreaks most years, and treatment means intensive hospital care with no guarantee of survival. Vaccines train the immune system to recognise these viruses before your dog meets them. High vaccination rates also protect puppies that are too young to be fully covered, and dogs that cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons.
Which vaccines does my dog need?
The World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) divides vaccines into core (every dog) and non-core (depending on risk).
- Core: distemper, adenovirus (hepatitis) and parvovirus, given as a C3.
- Non-core: parainfluenza and Bordetella for kennel cough (a C5 includes these), and leptospirosis where it occurs.
A dog that goes to day care, boarding, training classes or busy dog parks is likely to need kennel cough protection. A dog in an area with leptospirosis cases, or one that swims in creeks and roams farmland, may need lepto protection.
Are vaccines safe?
For the vast majority of dogs, yes. The most common effects are a quiet day, a slightly reduced appetite or a small, tender lump at the injection site. Nasal kennel cough vaccines may cause a few days of sneezing.
Serious reactions are uncommon. Go straight to a vet if you see:
- Swelling of the face, eyes or muzzle
- Hives or intense itching
- Vomiting or diarrhoea
- Difficulty breathing
- Weakness or collapse
Tell your vet about any past reaction so they can plan safely next time, which may mean spacing vaccines out or monitoring your dog in the clinic afterwards.
Why does my vet vaccinate every year if boosters last three years?
Core vaccines in adult dogs are often given every three years when products registered for that interval are used. However, kennel cough and leptospirosis protection only last about a year. So many dogs still visit yearly, with different components due each time. The annual visit is also when vets pick up dental disease, lumps, weight changes and heart murmurs, which is valuable on its own.
What is a titre test?
A titre test is a blood test that measures antibodies to the core viruses. A good result suggests your dog is likely still protected against those diseases, and some vets use it to decide whether a core booster can wait. Titre tests do not work for kennel cough or leptospirosis, and they cost more than a vaccine. Ask your vet if it suits your dog.
My dog's vaccines have lapsed. What now?
This happens often, especially after a move or a busy year. Your vet will look at how long it has been and may recommend a short restart course. Until your dog is covered again, avoid high-risk places such as dog parks, boarding and areas where parvovirus has been reported.
Do senior dogs still need vaccines?
Older dogs still benefit from core protection, and their immune systems can be weaker. Your vet will consider their health, lifestyle and history. Some older dogs with long vaccine histories may be suitable for titre testing instead of automatic boosters.
Can a sick or pregnant dog be vaccinated?
Vaccines are usually postponed if a dog is unwell. Some vaccines should be avoided during pregnancy. Your vet will decide the timing.
What do boarding kennels require?
Most require proof of current C5 vaccination, or C3 plus a separate kennel cough vaccine, given a set time before arrival. Check requirements well ahead of holidays, as some vaccines need a week or two to take full effect.
FAQ
Is it okay to give several vaccines at once?
Combination vaccines are designed for this and are safe for most dogs. If your dog has reacted before, your vet may separate them.
Do dogs need a rabies vaccine in Australia?
No, unless they are travelling overseas. Australia is free of rabies.
Does vaccination guarantee my dog won't get sick?
No vaccine is 100 percent effective, but vaccinated dogs are far less likely to become seriously ill.
Can I vaccinate my dog myself?
Vaccines should be given by a vet, who checks your dog's health first and records the vaccine properly for boarding and travel.
Talk with a vet
If you are not sure which vaccines your dog is due for, or your dog seemed unwell after a vaccine, a Dial A Vet veterinarian can talk it through and help you plan your next clinic visit. Book a Dial A Vet consult.
References
- Squires RA, Crawford C, Marcondes M, Whitley N. 2024 guidelines for the vaccination of dogs and cats, compiled by the Vaccination Guidelines Group (VGG) of the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA). J Small Anim Pract. 2024.
- RSPCA Australia Knowledgebase. What vaccinations should my dog receive?
- Merck Veterinary Manual. Canine parvovirus infection (parvoviral enteritis in dogs).
Disclaimer: Educational only. This page does not replace an examination or advice from your own veterinarian. If you are worried about your pet right now, contact your local vet or nearest emergency animal hospital.