Vaccination Schedule for Dogs: What You Need to Know

Dog vaccines protect against serious (and often fatal) diseases—and in Canada, they’re also your best defence against unexpected vet bills and outbreak risks. Your dog’s ideal vaccination schedule depends on age, lifestyle, travel, and local disease pressure, so always confirm timing with your veterinarian. Use the guide below to know what to expect and what to ask for.

Core vs. Non-Core Dog Vaccines (Canada)

Core vaccines are recommended for most dogs because the diseases are widespread and high-risk:

DA2PP (or DHPP): distemper, adenovirus (hepatitis), parvovirus, parainfluenza
Rabies: legally required in many municipalities and often needed for boarding, grooming, and travel

Non-core vaccines depend on exposure risk:

Bordetella (kennel cough): daycare, boarding, grooming, dog parks
Leptospirosis: common in many parts of Canada; spread via wildlife urine and puddles
Lyme: for tick-endemic regions (e.g., parts of Ontario, Québec, Maritimes, Manitoba, B.C.)
Canine influenza: where outbreaks occur or if required by facilities

Typical Vaccination Schedule (Puppies, Adults, Seniors)

Puppies: start at 6–8 weeks. DA2PP is boosted every 3–4 weeks until at least 16 weeks (often 16–20 weeks for higher-risk pups). Rabies is usually given around 12–16 weeks (varies by province/clinic policy).

Adults: a booster is commonly given at about 1 year, then every 1–3 years depending on the vaccine and your vet’s protocol. Many DA2PP and rabies vaccines are licensed for 3-year intervals after the first adult booster.

Tip: Ask your vet which vaccines are 1-year vs. 3-year and get it in writing on your reminder card.
Tip: Keep a digital copy of records for travel, boarding, and emergencies.
Tip: Schedule vaccines when your dog is healthy; report prior reactions before the appointment.

Vaccines aren’t one-size-fits-all. Work with your Canadian veterinarian to match protection to your dog’s real-world risks—and stick to reminders so your dog stays continuously covered.