Dog Vaccination Schedule in India: A Complete Age-by-Age Guide (2026)
Confused about when your puppy needs which shot? Here's the full vaccination schedule for dogs in India, age by age, with approximate costs and booster timing.
Bringing home a puppy is joyful — but the vaccination schedule can feel confusing fast. Which shots, at what age, how much do they cost, and what happens if you miss one? This guide lays it all out simply, so you can protect your dog without the overwhelm.
Important: This is an educational guide, not veterinary advice. Always confirm the exact schedule with your own vet, as it may vary by region, breed, and your dog's health.
Why vaccinations matter so much in India
Diseases like parvovirus, distemper, and rabies are still common across many parts of India. Puppies are especially vulnerable in their first few months because the immunity they get from their mother fades quickly. A timely vaccination schedule is the single most effective way to protect them.
Core vs non-core vaccines
Core vaccines are recommended for almost every dog:
- DHPP — protects against Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, and Parainfluenza
- Rabies — legally important and life-saving
Non-core vaccines depend on lifestyle and region:
- Leptospirosis — useful in areas with standing water or rodents
- Corona, Kennel Cough (Bordetella) — often advised for dogs in boarding or daycare
Puppy vaccination schedule (age by age)
| Age | Vaccine |
|---|---|
| 6–8 weeks | First DHPP (sometimes DHPPi) |
| 9–10 weeks | Second DHPP |
| 12–14 weeks | Third DHPP + Leptospirosis |
| 12–16 weeks | Rabies (first dose) |
| 16+ weeks | Final booster if needed |
After the puppy series, most dogs need an annual booster for DHPP, Rabies, and Lepto. Your vet may suggest a 3-year rabies schedule depending on the vaccine used.
Approximate vaccination costs in India
Prices vary by city and clinic, but as a rough guide:
- Rabies: ₹350–₹500
- DHPP / DHPPi: ₹800–₹1,000
- Leptospirosis: ₹600–₹900
Many clinics offer a discounted puppy package that bundles the full first-year series.
What if you miss a dose?
Don't panic — but don't ignore it. Call your vet as soon as you realise. Depending on how late it is, they may resume the schedule or restart a portion of it. Keeping a simple record of every shot makes this far easier.
Keep an easy vaccination record
The hardest part isn't the vaccines — it's remembering the dates. Write down every shot, the date given, and the next due date. A dedicated planner or a simple reminder system means you'll never scramble or double-guess again.
The bottom line
Follow the core schedule, keep a clear record, and check in with your vet annually. Do that, and you've handled the most important part of keeping your dog healthy in their first year and beyond.
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Keep your dog's care organized
The Complete Dog Care Planner turns all of this into one calm, simple routine you can actually stick to.
