How Often Do Dogs Need Vaccines? Yearly vs Every 3 Years

The old habit of "annual shots" for every vaccine has been replaced by a schedule based on how long each vaccine protects. Here is how often each vaccine is given to an adult dog under the American Animal Hospital Association's 2022 canine vaccination guidelines.

Adult dog vaccine schedule

Vaccine	Type	How often (adult dog)
DAPP / DHPP (distemper, adenovirus, parvovirus ± parainfluenza)	Core	One booster within 1 year after the puppy series, then every 3 years
Rabies	Core, legally required in most states	First booster 1 year after the first shot, then every 1 or 3 years depending on the vaccine and local law
Leptospirosis	Core (since 2022)	Every year
Bordetella (kennel cough)	Non-core	Every year
Lyme disease	Non-core	Every year
Canine influenza	Non-core	Every year

Are dog vaccines yearly?

Some are. Leptospirosis, Bordetella, Lyme and influenza vaccines produce shorter-lived protection, so they are boosted every year. DAPP and rabies (with a 3-year labeled product, where the law allows) last longer, which is why they are given every three years in adult dogs. Most dogs therefore still visit the vet every year for at least one vaccine, plus their annual exam.

Puppies need vaccines much more often

Puppies receive DAPP every 2 to 4 weeks from 6–8 weeks of age until at least 16 weeks, because antibodies from their mother can block a vaccine given too early. Leptospirosis starts at 12 weeks with two doses 2 to 4 weeks apart. Rabies is usually given between 12 and 16 weeks. All of these are boosted about a year later. See the puppy shot schedule.

What if my dog is overdue?

For DAPP and the annual vaccines, AAHA says to follow the manufacturer's instructions for overdue vaccines; a dog with an unknown history is generally restarted with two doses 2 to 4 weeks apart. For rabies, the national compendium considers an overdue dog currently vaccinated immediately after a booster. Overdue rabies also matters legally: if your dog bites someone or is exposed to a rabid animal, documented vaccination changes the quarantine rules.

How often do dog vaccines need to be updated for boarding and daycare?

Boarding kennels, daycares and groomers usually require proof of current rabies, DAPP and Bordetella, and some require canine influenza. Many ask that Bordetella be given at least several days before the stay. See what vaccines are required for dog boarding.

Can my dog get a titer test instead of boosters?

A titer is a blood test that measures antibody levels. For distemper, adenovirus and parvovirus, a good titer suggests protection, and some owners use titers to decide when to re-vaccinate. Titers are not accepted in place of rabies vaccination under most state laws, and they don't measure protection against leptospirosis or Bordetella.

How much do yearly vaccines cost?

Expect roughly $100 to $200 a year for an adult dog's vaccines at a full-service clinic, depending on which shots are due, plus the exam fee. See how much dog vaccines cost.

Find veterinarians near you to check which vaccines your dog is due for.

Sources

This article is general information for pet owners, not veterinary, legal or financial advice. Prices vary by city and clinic; always ask your veterinarian or provider about your own pet.

How Often Do Dogs Need Vaccines?