What is the dog vaccination schedule in India?

Puppies in India start core vaccines at 6 weeks (DHPPi), followed by DHPPi+L at 9 weeks, DHPPi+L at 12 weeks, and the first anti-rabies vaccine at 12–16 weeks. Boosters are repeated annually for life.

Is the anti-rabies vaccine mandatory for dogs in India?

Yes. Anti-rabies vaccination is legally required for dogs in India and must be repeated every year. Most municipalities require proof of rabies vaccination for licensing.

How much does dog vaccination cost in India?

Core vaccines typically cost ₹400–₹800 per dose, and anti-rabies ₹250–₹500. A full first-year puppy vaccination package usually costs between ₹2,500 and ₹5,000 depending on city and clinic.

Which vaccines are core for dogs in India?

Core vaccines recommended by WSAVA and Indian veterinary practice are Distemper, Hepatitis (Adenovirus), Parvovirus, Parainfluenza (DHPPi), Leptospirosis, and Rabies.

Dog Vaccination Schedule in India (2026): Complete Timeline by Age & Breed

Core vs non-core vaccines

Following WSAVA guidelines and standard Indian veterinary practice, vaccines fall into two groups:

Core (every dog): Distemper, Hepatitis (Adenovirus), Parvovirus, Parainfluenza — usually combined as DHPPi — plus Leptospirosis and Rabies (legally required in India).
Non-core (risk-based): Kennel Cough (Bordetella), Canine Influenza, and Corona — recommended for dogs that board, attend daycare, or socialise heavily.

Puppy vaccination timeline (first year)

Age	Vaccine	Notes
6 weeks	DHPPi (1st dose)	First puppy shot after weaning.
9 weeks	DHPPi + L (2nd dose)	Adds Leptospirosis.
12 weeks	DHPPi + L (3rd dose)	Builds full immunity.
12–16 weeks	Anti-Rabies (1st dose)	Mandatory in India.
6 months	Anti-Rabies booster	Some vets give a second rabies shot.
12 months	DHPPi + L + Rabies	First annual booster.

Adult dog booster schedule

DHPPi: Annually, or every 3 years per WSAVA (discuss titer testing with your vet).
Leptospirosis: Annually — especially in monsoon-prone areas like Mumbai, Kerala, and the Northeast.
Anti-Rabies: Annually, lifelong. Required for pet licenses and most boarding/travel.
Kennel Cough: Every 6–12 months if boarding or in group settings.

Breed-specific considerations

Indian breeds (Indie/Mudhol/Rajapalayam): Generally robust but still need the full core schedule. Parvo is widespread — never skip puppy shots.
Toy breeds (Pomeranian, Shih Tzu, Pug): Often more vaccine-sensitive — schedule mild observation time after each shot.
Large breeds (Labrador, German Shepherd, Golden Retriever): Standard schedule. Watch for post-vaccine lethargy for 24–48 hours.
Brachycephalic breeds (Pug, Bulldog, Boxer): Slightly higher risk of reaction — vaccinate one shot at a time when possible.

Cost of dog vaccination in India

Vaccine	Typical cost (per dose)
DHPPi	₹400 – ₹800
DHPPi + L	₹600 – ₹1,000
Anti-Rabies	₹250 – ₹500
Kennel Cough	₹600 – ₹1,200

Expect a full first-year package of ₹2,500–₹5,000, depending on city, clinic, and vaccine brand (Nobivac, Vanguard, Biocan).

Common mistakes to avoid

Skipping the 9-week shot — gaps in early immunity put puppies at high parvo risk.
Bathing or socialising too early after a vaccine — wait at least 7 days.
Missing annual rabies boosters — beyond legal risk, immunity wanes after 12 months.
No written record — losing the vaccination card means starting paperwork from scratch.

Signs to call your vet

Mild lethargy and a small lump at the injection site are normal. Contact your vet if you see persistent vomiting, facial swelling, hives, breathing difficulty, or collapse within 24 hours of a vaccine.

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This article is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for veterinary advice. Always consult a licensed veterinarian for your dog's vaccination plan.