Puppy vaccinations: timeline, costs, and advice guide

Getting a new puppy is exciting, and puppy vaccinations are one of the first important steps in protecting your puppy's health.

Dogs in the UK are at risk of catching infectious diseases, and symptoms can range from mild to life-threatening. Puppies are most vulnerable to diseases, especially when they’re in direct contact with unvaccinated dogs, or in areas where they have been. Book your puppy’s first vaccinations as soon as they reach the recommended age (usually eight weeks), delaying could leave them vulnerable to disease. The initial ‘puppy’ vaccination course helps to build up an immune system that will be essential through the rest of their lives.

Certain vaccinations, like kennel cough, may be required if your dog goes to boarding kennels, training classes, or doggy daycare—check requirements for these spaces in advance to avoid last-minute stress. 

Some vaccines, like rabies, are required by law in certain countries or for travel. Always check vaccination requirements if you plan to take your dog abroad.

Puppy vaccinations timeline

During the initial vaccination course, depending on the age your dog received their first vaccine and on your location/lifestyle, a further two may be suggested; your vet will be able to provide guidance on this. 

Initial vaccine course:

• DHPPi (canine distemper, infectious canine hepatitis, parvovirus and parainfluenza virus)
• Lepto 2 or 4 (leptospirosis two or four strains)

Annual booster vaccines:

• DHP (canine distemper, infectious canine hepatitis and parvovirus) – may be given every 2-3 years rather than annually
• Lepto 2 or 4 (leptospirosis two or four strains)

Puppy vaccination schedule

Here's a quick overview of the standard puppy vaccination schedule. Your vet will confirm the exact timing and vaccines needed for your puppy.

• Parvovirus — first dose at 8 weeks, second at 10–12 weeks, booster every 3 years*
• Distemper — first dose at 8 weeks, second at 10–12 weeks, booster every 3 years*
• Infectious hepatitis — first dose at 8 weeks, second at 10–12 weeks, booster every 3 years*
• Leptospirosis — first dose at 8 weeks, second at 10–12 weeks, annual booster
• Kennel cough — from 8 weeks, annual booster (if needed)
• Parainfluenza — first dose at 8 weeks, second at 10–12 weeks, annual booster

*Some vets recommend annual boosters depending on your area and vaccine manufacturer guidance — your vet will advise.

Your puppy won't have full protection until around two weeks after their second vaccination. Until then, avoid letting them walk in public places where unvaccinated dogs may have been — but you can still carry them out to help with socialisation.

How much do puppy vaccinations cost?

The cost of puppy vaccinations in the UK varies depending on your location, your vet practice, and which vaccines your puppy needs.

As a general guide:

• Initial puppy vaccination course (two injections): typically £40–£70
• Annual booster vaccinations: typically £50–£60
• Kennel cough vaccine (if needed): often cheaper when done alongside other vaccinations — ask your vet

Why do prices vary?

Vet practices set their own fees, and costs tend to be higher in cities, particularly in London and the South East, than in rural areas. The price may also vary depending on which vaccines are included and whether a health check is bundled in with the appointment.

Ways to reduce the cost

• Pet health plans: Many vet practices offer monthly membership schemes that include vaccinations, parasite treatments and routine check-ups at a reduced overall cost. Ask your vet if they offer one.
• Low-cost clinics: Charities including the PDSA, Blue Cross and RSPCA run subsidised or free veterinary services for eligible pet owners. Eligibility is usually means-tested. It's worth checking whether you qualify before your puppy's first appointment.

Remember: preventing disease through vaccination will almost always cost less than treating it. Serious conditions like parvovirus can result in lengthy, expensive vet stays — and are often fatal in unvaccinated puppies.