Keeping your dog’s vaccinations up to date is one of the simplest ways to prevent serious (and often expensive) diseases. In Canada, vaccine timing can vary slightly by province, lifestyle, and local risk, so your best plan is a schedule built with your veterinarian.

Core vs. non-core vaccines (Canada)

Core vaccines are recommended for most dogs because the diseases are widespread or severe:

DA2PP (or DAPP): distemper, adenovirus (hepatitis), parvovirus, parainfluenza
Rabies: required by law in many Canadian municipalities and strongly recommended nationwide

Non-core vaccines are lifestyle-based. Your vet may suggest them if your dog is exposed to higher risk:

Bordetella (kennel cough): daycare, grooming, boarding, dog parks
Leptospirosis: wildlife/standing water; higher risk in many urban and rural areas
Lyme: tick regions (e.g., parts of ON, QC, NS, MB, BC)

Typical dog vaccination schedule

Use this as a general guide—your vet may adjust based on age, health, and previous records.

Puppies (6–8 weeks): DA2PP #1
10–12 weeks: DA2PP #2 (+ optional non-core)
14–16 weeks: DA2PP #3, Rabies (timing varies by province/clinic)
1 year: DA2PP booster, Rabies booster (and any non-core boosters needed)
Adults: DA2PP every 3 years (common), Rabies every 1–3 years depending on vaccine label and local rules; non-core often yearly

Actionable tips for owners

Bring records when switching vets or adopting—unknown histories may require restarting.
Book early: puppy series needs timely boosters for best immunity.
Match vaccines to lifestyle: boarding plans? Ask about Bordetella 1–2 weeks ahead.
Watch for mild reactions (sleepiness, sore spot). Call your vet urgently for facial swelling, vomiting, or hives.

Bottom line: A smart vaccination schedule protects your dog and your community. Ask your Canadian veterinarian to tailor core and non-core vaccines to your region, travel, and daily routine.