Keeping your dog’s vaccines up to date is one of the simplest ways to prevent serious (and expensive) diseases. In Canada, most clinics follow similar core guidelines, then tailor timing based on your dog’s age, lifestyle, and local risks.

Core vs. Lifestyle Vaccines (Canada)

Core vaccines are recommended for nearly all dogs because the diseases are widespread and potentially fatal:

DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis/Adenovirus, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza)
Rabies (often required by municipal bylaws and for boarding/travel)

Lifestyle (non-core) vaccines depend on exposure risk:

Bordetella (kennel cough) for daycare, boarding, grooming, training classes
Leptospirosis for dogs near wildlife, ponds, farms, or urban rat exposure
Lyme in tick-prone regions (common in parts of Ontario, Quebec, Maritimes, and Manitoba)
Canine influenza where outbreaks occur or for frequent travelers

Typical Dog Vaccination Schedule

Puppies need a series because maternal antibodies can block early shots.

6–8 weeks: DHPP #1
10–12 weeks: DHPP #2 (+ lifestyle vaccines if needed)
14–16 weeks: DHPP #3 and Rabies (per provincial/clinic rules)
12 months: booster visit (DHPP + Rabies; add lifestyle boosters as advised)

Adult dogs: many clinics booster DHPP every 1–3 years and Rabies every 1–3 years depending on product label and local regulations. Lifestyle vaccines are often annual, and Bordetella may be every 6–12 months for high-exposure dogs.

Practical Tips to Stay on Track

Ask your vet for a personalized risk-based plan (daycare, hiking, travel, multi-dog homes).
Keep a digital copy of records—many Canadian boarding facilities require proof.
Book the next appointment before you leave the clinic; set phone reminders.
After vaccines, monitor for mild sleepiness; call your vet urgently for facial swelling, vomiting, or hives.

Bottom line: A smart vaccine schedule protects your dog and your community. Partner with your veterinarian to match core and lifestyle vaccines to where you live and how your dog lives.