Dog Vaccination Schedule, Complete Guide 2026

Why are dog vaccines so important?

Vaccination is one of the most essential parts of responsible dog ownership. Vaccines protect not only your pet but the entire animal community around you. Yet many owners are unsure what to give and when, which is exactly why this guide exists.

Legally required vaccines

In most countries only rabies is legally mandatory. However, veterinary organisations strongly recommend a much broader vaccination programme.

Rabies

• First dose: 12–16 weeks (no earlier than 3 months)
• Boosters: Annually or every 3 years, depending on the product
• Required for: EU travel (pet passport), dog hotels, most training courses

Important: Dogs without a current rabies vaccination cannot cross EU borders or enter many public facilities.

Core vaccines (strongly recommended)

Distemper + Hepatitis + Parvovirus + Leptospirosis (DHPPiL)

The "combo" vaccine, the cornerstone of every dog's health.

Puppy schedule:

1. 6–8 weeks: First DHPPi dose
2. 10–12 weeks: Second dose + first Leptospirosis
3. 14–16 weeks: Third dose + Rabies
4. 12 months: Full booster
5. Every 1–3 years: Follow-up boosters (depending on product)

Kennel cough (Bordetella + Parainfluenza)

• When: Before dog hotels, puppy classes, or shows
• Form: Nasal drops or injection
• Duration: 6–12 months

Lyme disease (Borreliosis)

• For whom: Dogs that spend active time in forests or fields
• Schedule: Two doses 3–4 weeks apart, then annual booster

Vaccination schedule at a glance

*Depending on lifestyle

How PetsyPlanet keeps vaccinations on track

Paper health booklets are a thing of the past. In PetsyPlanet:

1. Add a vaccination with date, batch number, and vet's name
2. The app automatically calculates the next due date
3. Push reminders 30, 7, and 1 day before the deadline
4. PDF export in one tap, ready for the vet or border crossing

Frequently asked questions

Can I miss a vaccination deadline? A short delay (a few weeks) is rarely dangerous, but for rabies the dog is legally unprotected. A long gap for puppies may require restarting the full series.

Should I vaccinate a sick dog? No. Vaccines work best in healthy animals. Always inform your vet about any health issues before vaccinating.

What if I've lost the health booklet? Contact the vet who administered the vaccines, they are legally required to keep records. Going forward, PetsyPlanet keeps your full history on your phone, even without a physical document.

Summary

Regular vaccination is an investment that can save your dog's life and prevent expensive treatment bills. Agree on a schedule with your vet, set reminders in PetsyPlanet, and never miss a deadline again.

This article is for informational purposes only. Always consult a licensed veterinarian who knows your dog's health history.