Vaccination Schedule for Dogs in India
Vaccination is the single most important preventive health measure you can take for your dog. This guide covers the complete schedule from puppy to senior, specific to India.
Age-by-Age Vaccination Schedule
| Feature | 6 weeks | 8–9 weeks | 12 weeks | 16 weeks | 1 year | Annual (adult) | Senior (7+) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vaccines | Distemper, Parvovirus (optional early start) | DHPPi (5-in-1) | DHPPi booster + Rabies | DHPPi final puppy dose | DHPPi + Rabies booster | DHPPi annual booster | Vet assessment required |
| Type | Core | Core | Core | Core | Core | Core | Core/Modified |
| Notes | Only if puppies at high risk; mother's antibodies may interfere | First full dose — Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza | Rabies required by law in India. Leptospirosis optional. | Completes primary series. Dog can socialise fully after this. | Annual booster. Add Leptospirosis if in monsoon-prone area. | Rabies every 1 or 3 years depending on vaccine brand used. | Titre testing may be used instead of blanket annual boosters for seniors. |
Core Vaccines (All Dogs Must Have)
Rabies
Required by law in India. Fatal, zoonotic — no exceptions.
Distemper
Attacks nervous system. Highly contagious, often fatal in puppies.
Parvovirus
Common cause of puppy death in India. Survives in soil for a year.
Hepatitis (Adenovirus)
Liver disease; included in combination DHPPi vaccine.
Non-Core Vaccines (Based on Risk)
Leptospirosis
Highly recommended in India, especially during monsoon. Zoonotic.
Kennel Cough (Bordetella)
Recommended if dog visits boarding or dog parks.
Canine Coronavirus
Low priority in India; discuss with vet.
Vaccination Do's and Don'ts
Keep a written vaccination record and take it to every vet visit
Start the puppy series at 6–8 weeks from a reputable vet
Complete the full primary series before allowing uncontrolled outdoor socialisation
Vaccinate for Leptospirosis if you live in a monsoon-heavy area
Book annual booster even if the dog seems healthy
Skip vaccinations because the dog seems healthy — prevention is the entire point
Allow unvaccinated puppies to visit parks, pet shops, or meet unknown dogs
Vaccinate a sick or immunocompromised dog without vet guidance
Assume that one puppy series provides lifelong immunity — annual boosters are required
Ignore rabies vaccination — it is legally mandatory and 100% fatal
Questions to Ask Your Vet
- → Which combination vaccine brand do you use and what does it cover?
- → Should I vaccinate for Leptospirosis given my area and lifestyle?
- → What is your recommended Rabies booster interval — 1 or 3 years?
- → At what age do you recommend titre testing instead of boosters for my senior dog?
- → Do I need kennel cough vaccination if my dog attends a dog walker or boarding?
Common Questions
Can I buy and give vaccines at home?
In India, some vaccines are available at pet shops, but vet-administered vaccines are strongly preferred. Improper storage or injection technique can render vaccines ineffective or unsafe. Always use a licensed vet.
What is the DHPPi vaccine?
DHPPi stands for Distemper, Hepatitis (Adenovirus), Parvovirus, and Parainfluenza. It's a combination vaccine given as a single injection. It may come as a 5-in-1 (DHPPiL with Leptospirosis) or 7-in-1.
How long after vaccination can my puppy go outside?
Full protection builds approximately 2 weeks after the final dose in the primary series (usually at 16 weeks). Until then, avoid public areas with unknown dogs. Carrying your puppy in your arms in low-risk areas is generally safe.
Do senior dogs still need annual vaccines?
Yes, though the protocol may change. Some vets use titre testing to check antibody levels in older dogs before giving blanket boosters. Discuss with your vet at age 7+.