Vaccinations play a vital role in protecting dogs from serious and potentially life-threatening diseases. Whether you have a new puppy or an adult dog, keeping their vaccinations up to date is one of the most important steps you can take to safeguard their health.
This page explains why vaccinations matter and which ones your dog may need.
Vaccines help your dog’s immune system recognise and fight dangerous infections, before they can cause illness. Many of the diseases we vaccinate against are highly contagious and can be fatal, particularly in young puppies or dogs with weaker immune systems.
Keeping your dog vaccinated also helps protect other dogs in the community by reducing the spread of disease.
Vaccination is often required if your dog:
All dogs should receive core vaccinations, which protect against the most serious and widespread diseases.
Parvovirus – a highly contagious virus causing severe vomiting and diarrhoea.
Canine distemper – a serious disease affecting the lungs, gut, immune system and nervous system.
Infectious hepatitis (adenovirus) – damages the liver, kidneys and blood vessels.
Leptospirosis – a bacterial infection that can cause kidney and liver failure and can also infect humans.
Some dogs may also benefit from additional vaccines depending on their lifestyle:
Kennel cough – recommended for dogs that mix with other dogs or attend kennels or day care.
Rabies – legally required for dogs travelling outside Ireland.
Your vet will help you decide which vaccinations are appropriate for your dog.
If your puppy or dog is not yet fully vaccinated:
Once vaccinations are complete, your dog can safely begin exploring the wider world.
Puppies are especially vulnerable to infectious disease, so early vaccination is essential.
Most puppies need a primary course of vaccines:
Your puppy will usually be fully protected two weeks after their final injection. Some puppies may require an additional dose, but your vet will advise if this applies to your pup.
Until vaccination is complete, your vet will guide you on how to socialise your puppy safely while minimising risk.
Protection from vaccines reduces over time, so booster vaccinations are needed to maintain immunity.
Missing boosters can leave your dog vulnerable again, even if they were vaccinated in the past.
If you are unsure whether your dog has been vaccinated, if they were rehomed or their records are missing, please let your vet know.
Dogs of any age can be vaccinated. In most cases, your vet will recommend restarting a primary course of two injections given a few weeks apart to ensure full protection.
If you plan to travel abroad with your dog, a rabies vaccination is required. Your dog must:
Different countries have different entry rules, so always check requirements well in advance and discuss travel plans with your vet.
At each vaccination visit, your vet will:
Vaccination appointments are also a great opportunity to discuss any other concerns, such as weight, parasite control or dental care.
Most dogs have no side effects at all. If they do occur, they are usually mild and short-lived, such as:
Some dogs may develop a small lump at the injection site, which typically disappears within a few weeks.
Serious reactions are extremely rare, but if you notice anything that worries you, contact your vet for advice.
The cost of vaccinations varies between veterinary practices. Your local vet will be able to give you up-to-date pricing.
While vaccinations are an expense, they are far less costly, both financially and emotionally, than treating serious preventable diseases.
