Vaccinations for Dogs: Updated Guidelines

Core Vaccines

Core vaccines are recommended for all dogs, regardless of lifestyle or geographic location, unless a specific medical reason precludes vaccination. These vaccines protect against diseases that are widespread, have significant morbidity and mortality, or pose a risk to human health.​

• Canine Distemper Virus (CDV)
• Canine Adenovirus Type 2 (CAV-2): Provides protection against infectious hepatitis and contributes to kennel cough prevention.
• Canine Parvovirus Type 2 (CPV-2)
• Rabies Virus: Often mandated by law due to its zoonotic potential.
• Leptospira spp.: As of 2024, leptospirosis vaccination is considered core for all dogs, reflecting its widespread prevalence and zoonotic risk. ​AAHA

Vaccination Schedule for Core Vaccines

Puppies (≤16 weeks of age):

• CDV, CAV-2, CPV-2 (+/- Parainfluenza Virus): Administer a minimum of three doses, starting at 6–8 weeks of age, at intervals of 2–4 weeks, with the final dose at ≥16 weeks of age.
• Leptospira spp.: Administer two doses, 2–4 weeks apart, starting at 12 weeks of age.
• Rabies Virus: Administer a single dose at 12–16 weeks of age, in accordance with local regulations.

Adults (>16 weeks of age) with unknown vaccination history:

• CDV, CAV-2, CPV-2 (+/- Parainfluenza Virus): Administer two doses, 2–4 weeks apart.
• Leptospira spp.: Administer two doses, 2–4 weeks apart.
• Rabies Virus: Administer a single dose, in accordance with local regulations.​

Revaccination:

• CDV, CAV-2, CPV-2 (+/- Parainfluenza Virus): Administer a booster one year after the initial series, then every three years.
• Leptospira spp.: Administer annually.
• Rabies Virus: Administer a booster one year after the initial dose, then every one to three years, depending on vaccine labeling and local regulations.​

Non-Core Vaccines

Non-core vaccines are recommended based on the dog's exposure risk, lifestyle, geographic location, and other individual factors. These vaccines protect against diseases that are not universally present or pose less risk to all dogs.​

• Bordetella bronchiseptica (kennel cough)
• Canine Parainfluenza Virus (often included with Bordetella)
• Canine Influenza Virus (H3N8 and H3N2)
• Borrelia burgdorferi (Lyme disease)
• Crotalus atrox (Western diamondback rattlesnake venom toxoid)​

Vaccination Schedule for Non-Core Vaccines

• Bordetella bronchiseptica:
  • Intranasal or Oral: Single dose, with annual revaccination.
  • Injectable: Two doses, 2–4 weeks apart, with annual revaccination.
• Canine Influenza Virus: Two doses, 2–4 weeks apart, with annual revaccination.
• Borrelia burgdorferi: Two doses, 2–4 weeks apart, with annual revaccination.
• Crotalus atrox: Dosing varies based on manufacturer recommendations and dog's risk of exposure.

Addressing Concerns About Over-Vaccination

Historically, annual revaccination was common practice. However, research has shown that immunity from certain vaccines persists longer than previously thought. The current guidelines recommend extended intervals between boosters for core vaccines, based on evidence of sustained immunity. For instance, after the initial series and one-year booster, CDV, CAV-2, and CPV-2 vaccines are recommended every three years.​

Serologic testing (titers) can assess a dog's immunity to specific diseases, potentially guiding decisions about revaccination. However, titers are not available or validated for all diseases, and their interpretation can be complex. Consult with your veterinarian to determine if titer testing is appropriate for your dog.​

Making Informed Decisions for Your Dog

Vaccination decisions should be made collaboratively between you and your veterinarian, considering your dog's age, health status, lifestyle, and risk factors. Key considerations include:​

• Puppy Vaccination Start Age: Begin core vaccinations at 6–8 weeks of age.
• Rabies Vaccination: Ensure compliance with local laws regarding rabies vaccination schedules.
• Lifestyle Factors: Discuss your dog's activities, such as boarding, grooming, travel, and exposure to wildlife, to determine the need for non-core vaccines.
• Health Status: Avoid vaccinating dogs that are ill, pregnant, or experiencing significant stress.​

Regular veterinary visits are essential to assess your dog's health and update vaccinations as needed. By staying informed and proactive, you can help protect your dog from preventable diseases and ensure a long, healthy life.​

For more detailed information, refer to the full 2022 AAHA Canine Vaccination Guidelines and consult with your veterinarian to develop a vaccination plan tailored to your dog's needs.