Dog Vaccine Guide
Vaccinating your dog is a critical step in keeping them healthy, safe, and protected from deadly diseases. Below is a guide to the core and optional vaccines every responsible dog owner should know about, along with when to give them.
Core Vaccines
Vaccine |
What it Prevents |
When to Give |
Rabies |
Fatal nervous system disease |
12 weeks, then annually or every 3 years |
DHPP |
Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza |
6–8 weeks, then boosters at 10–12 & 14–16 weeks, then yearly |
Optional Vaccines
Vaccine |
What it Prevents |
When to Give |
Bordetella (Kennel Cough) |
Infectious respiratory disease |
6–8 weeks, then every 6–12 months |
Leptospirosis |
Bacterial infection from water |
12 weeks, then annually |
Canine Influenza |
Dog flu in crowded places |
2 doses 2–4 weeks apart, then annually |
Puppy Vaccine Schedule
Puppy Age |
Vaccine |
6–8 weeks |
DHPP (1st dose) |
10–12 weeks |
DHPP (2nd dose), Optional: Bordetella |
14–16 weeks |
DHPP (3rd dose), Rabies |
1 year |
DHPP Booster, Rabies Booster |
Always consult a licensed veterinarian in Kenya for your pet’s specific needs. Keep a vaccination record for each pet to ensure timely boosters.