Dog vaccinations are one of the most important steps in giving your puppy a healthy start in life. They prevent dogs from suffering from common illnesses like parvovirus, distemper, and canine hepatitis—all of which are still present in Australia today.
The good news is that most of these are preventable with the right vaccination plan!
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most important vaccines for dogs and share vet-backed insights on how to keep your furry friend safe and thriving.
Whether you’re a first-time dog owner or simply need a refresher, this article will give you the confidence to stay on top of your dog’s health from day one.
Top dog illnesses that may be prevented by vaccines
Dogs, and especially puppies, are naturally curious and love to explore, but this also makes them vulnerable to serious and sometimes fatal diseases.
Below are the most common health problems in Australia that vaccines can protect your pup from.
| Serious Viral Diseases | |
| Parvo Virus (Parvo) | A highly contagious viral disease causing severe vomiting, diarrhoea (often bloody), dehydration, and can be fatal, especially in puppies. Common in Australia. |
| Distemper | A serious viral disease affecting the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems. Symptoms may include fever, coughing, discharge from eyes/nose, seizures, and paralysis. |
| Canine Adenovirus (Hepatitis) | Causes infectious canine hepatitis, damaging the liver, kidneys, and eyes. Signs may include fever, abdominal pain, jaundice, and in severe cases, sudden death. |
| Bacterial and Parasitic Diseases | |
| Leptospirosis (in some Australian regions) | A bacterial infection spread via contaminated water, soil, or urine of rodents/wildlife. Can cause kidney and liver damage, fever, vomiting, and is also a zoonotic disease (can infect humans). |
| Other Contagious Illnesses | |
| “Kennel Cough” / Canine Cough (Bordetella & Parainfluenza) | A contagious respiratory infection causing a persistent, hacking cough. While usually not fatal, it can weaken puppies and lead to complications like pneumonia. |
| Canine Influenza (emerging risk) | A contagious respiratory illness causing coughing, fever, and nasal discharge. Outbreaks can spread quickly in areas with high dog populations. |
Core Vaccinations in Australia
Your veterinarian is the best person to guide you on the right vaccination plan, tailoring it to your dog’s age, lifestyle, and the specific disease risks in your area. That said, here’s an overview of the core dog vaccinations every responsible pet owner should be familiar with.
What is the C3 Vaccination?
The C3 vaccine is a core vaccination for dogs that helps protect against three serious diseases:
- Parvovirus
- Canine Distemper Virus
- Canine Adenovirus
These three viruses are considered “core” diseases, meaning they are a significant health threat and many dogs are at risk.
What is the C5 Vaccination?
The C5 Vaccination is basically the extension of the C3 Vaccination, with the addition of “non-core” vaccines against the following:
- Parainfluenza virus (“Canine Cough”)
- Bordetella bronchiseptica (“Canine Cough”)
The C5 Vaccination is highly recommended for dogs that socialise often, however it is important to discuss the recommended plan for your puppy or dog with your veterinarian.
What are Boosters?
| Dog’s Life Stage | Vaccination |
| Puppy | Core vaccines beginning in first 6–8 weeks of life |
| Adult | Boosters as needed |
| Senior | Boosters as needed |
Source: Animal Medicines Australia
Dogs should receive their core vaccinations and, when needed, booster shots to maintain immunity.
While vaccines offer strong protection, it usually lasts for a limited period, making boosters often required for long-term defence.
Non-core vaccines are recommended based on your dog’s lifestyle and risk factors.
Puppy and dog vaccination schedule: Timing is key!
The timing of dog vaccinations is critical to ensure your puppy’s immune system develops the right level of protection.
💡 Maternal antibodies—passed down from the mother—can sometimes block vaccines from working effectively, which is why a carefully spaced series of dog vaccinations is needed.
Following your vet’s vaccination schedule of puppy shots and ongoing adult boosters helps avoid gaps in immunity against contagious diseases.
By spreading vaccinations over several weeks, vets make sure each dose is given when maternal antibodies have faded and your puppy’s immune system is ready to build its own defences.
Here’s the standard dog vaccination schedule most vets recommend (please note this may vary based on the vaccination used and your vet’s recommendation):
| Type of Vaccine | Age & Range Given |
| Initial Vaccines | Between 6-8 weeks old |
| First Booster Vaccines | Between 10-12 weeks old |
| Second Booster Vaccines | Between 14-16 weeks old |
| Annual Booster Vaccines | Approximately 12 months after the last puppy second booster vaccine, then every 3 years |
Vet tips for newly vaccinated dogs
After vaccination, keep an eye on your dog for any side effects. Offer a quiet, comfortable place to rest and make sure fresh water is available.
Watch out for these side effects over the next 24–48 hours:
- Mild reactions: tiredness, slight swelling, or soreness at the injection site (usually resolve within 1–2 days).
- Serious reactions: difficulty breathing, hives, vomiting, or collapse — contact your vet immediately if these occur.
Avoid strenuous activities and limit contact with other animals for a few days. Your vet can let you know when it’s safe for your dog to return to normal activities and socialisation.
Preventative care for dogs beyond vaccinations
Vaccinations can give your dog a strong foundation of protection against common illnesses, but long-term health requires a more holistic approach.
From puppyhood to their senior dog years, regular preventive care is key to keeping your dog happy and healthy.
Scheduling at least an annual vet check-up provides an ongoing picture of your dog’s overall wellbeing. It also builds a stronger relationship with your vet, who can offer tailored advice based on a deeper understanding of your dog’s needs.
Another valuable step in preventive care may be enrolling in a wellness or routine care plan, which helps you stay consistent and proactive in managing your dog’s wellbeing.
What is a pet wellness or routine care plan?
A routine care plan is a subscription-based service that covers routine health care needs for your pet.
It covers services such as vaccinations, worm and flea prevention, and regular veterinary checkups. Unlike pet insurance, which covers unexpected medical expenses, wellness plans focus on preventative care.
Routine care plans like Knose’s are designed to ensure your pet stays healthy and happy all year round! We call it the Knose Pet Care Plan, a no-commitment wellness plan for pets.
What’s included in the Knose Pet Care Plan?
Home-delivered parasite protection
✅ Fleas
✅ Ticks (including paralysis tick)
✅ Heartworm
✅ Intestinal worms (including tapeworm)*
✅ Mange and Mites
*tapeworm optional for cats
Allowance for yearly vaccinations & check-ups
✅ Annual vaccinations, health, and dental check-ups included (up to $100 total per year)
✅ You choose the vet, get the treatment for your pet, and we reimburse you
Benefit unlocked after receipt of your third monthly payment
Unlimited 24/7 access to the Pet Health Hotline
✅ Talk on the phone or chat online to a registered vet nurse 24/7. Get emergency help, ask specific questions, or seek general advice.
Exclusive member benefits: discounts, special offers, and more!
✅ 5% discount on all pet care products from VetShop Australia.
