Vaccinating your dog is a legal requirement in some cases (such as rabies for travel) and a strongly recommended health measure for all dogs. The cost is modest compared to treating diseases like parvovirus, which can cost £2,000–£5,000 in emergency care with no guarantee of survival.

Vaccination Costs

  • Puppy primary course (2 injections): £60–£90
  • Annual booster: £40–£65
  • Kennel cough (Bordetella) intranasal vaccine: £25–£40
  • Rabies (for pet passport): £50–£70
  • Leptospirosis (Lepto 4): Included in standard course at most practices

Core Vaccines

The World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) and UK vets recommend:

  • Canine distemper virus (CDV)
  • Canine adenovirus (CAV-2) / infectious hepatitis
  • Canine parvovirus (CPV-2)

These three are combined as the "DHP" vaccine. In the UK, leptospirosis (Lepto 2 or Lepto 4) is also considered core due to the prevalence of the disease. Lepto 4 covers four strains and is now standard at most practices.

Puppy Vaccination Schedule

  • 6–8 weeks: First DHP + Lepto (some breeders administer the first dose)
  • 10–12 weeks: Second DHP + Lepto (your puppy can go outside 1–2 weeks after this)
  • 6–12 months: Optional kennel cough vaccine if boarding or socialising in group settings
  • 12–15 months: First annual booster (DHP + Lepto)

After the initial course, DHP boosters are now recommended every 3 years, while Lepto requires annual boosters as immunity wanes faster.

The Lepto 4 Debate

Some owners have concerns about the Lepto 4 vaccine due to reports of adverse reactions. The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) monitors all adverse event reports and considers Lepto 4 vaccines safe for the vast majority of dogs. Discuss any concerns with your vet, who can advise based on your dog's individual risk factors and health history.

Comparing Prices

Vaccination is one area where prices vary significantly between practices. The CMA found that pet owners rarely shop around for routine services, which allows some practices to charge premium prices. A simple phone call to 2–3 practices in your area could save £20–£40 per year on boosters alone.

Use VetCost to compare vaccination prices at practices near your postcode.

Last updated: March 2026. Sources: WSAVA vaccination guidelines, VMD, CMA provisional decision (October 2025), VetCost practice data.