How Much are Dog Vaccinations

A Guide to Dog Vaccination Costs in the UK

Dog vaccinations are an essential part of responsible pet ownership, protecting your dog from serious and potentially fatal diseases. In the UK, the cost of dog vaccinations varies depending on your location, your vet, and whether you're starting a new course or getting boosters. While it may seem like an upfront expense, it’s a small price to pay for your dog’s long-term health.

Vaccinations are given in stages throughout a dog’s life, starting as a puppy and continuing with regular boosters. These vaccines protect against common diseases like parvovirus, distemper, and leptospirosis, which can be highly contagious and life-threatening.

Puppy Vaccinations

Puppies typically begin their vaccinations at 6 to 8 weeks old, with a second round given at around 10 to 12 weeks, and sometimes a third at 14 to 16 weeks depending on the vet’s protocol. The core vaccines usually protect against:

Canine parvovirus

Canine distemper

Infectious canine hepatitis

Leptospirosis

Some vets include kennel cough or recommend it as an add-on, especially if your puppy will be around other dogs frequently (e.g., at daycare or puppy classes).

The cost for a full puppy vaccination course in the UK typically ranges from £60 to £90, depending on the vet practice. Some vets offer a discount if you book the full course up front or enrol in a puppy health plan.

Dog Vaccination Costs

After the initial puppy vaccinations, dogs require annual booster injections to maintain immunity. These boosters are often tailored to your dog’s lifestyle and risk level. The cost of annual boosters in the UK generally ranges from £40 to £70.

If your dog travels abroad or stays in kennels, additional vaccines—such as rabies or kennel cough—may be required. These come at an extra cost, usually around £30 to £60 per vaccine.

Some vet practices offer yearly wellness plans that cover vaccinations, flea and worm treatments, and annual health checks for a monthly fee, which can help spread the cost and offer good value.

Four Reasons Why You Should Get Your Dog Vaccinated

  1. Prevents deadly diseases: Vaccines protect against illnesses that are often fatal or require expensive emergency treatment.
  2. Protects other dogs: Vaccinating your dog helps prevent the spread of contagious diseases to other pets in your community.
  3. Required for travel and kennels: Many boarding facilities, dog walkers, and international travel schemes require up-to-date vaccination records.
  4. Peace of mind: Knowing your dog is protected allows you to enjoy walks, holidays, and social settings without constant worry.

What Age Do Dogs Need to Be Vaccinated?

The first set of vaccinations usually starts between 6 and 8 weeks of age. Puppies need to stay at home until around a week after their second set of injections, as they are not fully protected until then.

Adult dogs need annual boosters, with timing varying slightly depending on the vaccine type. Some components, like distemper and parvovirus, may be given every three years, while leptospirosis typically requires a yearly booster.

If you're unsure of your dog’s vaccination history—especially with rescues or rehomed pets—your vet may recommend starting the course from scratch to ensure full protection.

What If a Vaccine Is Missed?

If a booster is missed by a short time, your vet may still proceed with the next dose without restarting the full course. However, if a long gap has passed—usually more than 15 months—you may be advised to begin the course again, especially for diseases like leptospirosis that require strict timing.

It’s always best to keep your vaccination schedule up to date, but if you fall behind, speak with your vet about the safest way to get your dog protected again.

What Happens If a Dog Isn’t Vaccinated?

A dog that hasn’t been vaccinated is at much higher risk of contracting serious illnesses, some of which can be fatal or cause lasting damage. Diseases like parvovirus, distemper, and leptospirosis are still present in the UK and can spread quickly, especially in public spaces.

Unvaccinated dogs can also pose a risk to other animals, particularly puppies or elderly dogs with weaker immune systems. In addition, not vaccinating your dog may limit your options for travel, daycare, or boarding services, many of which require proof of up-to-date vaccinations.

Costs Can Vary by Region

Vaccination prices aren't standardised across the UK. A vet in central London may charge significantly more than a rural practice in Yorkshire or Wales. This is due to higher overheads and regional pricing differences. It’s always worth calling around for quotes if you’re looking to compare costs—some practices even price-match or offer first-time discounts.

Pet Health Plans Can Save Money

Many vet practices now offer pet wellness plans or monthly health clubs, which can reduce overall costs. These plans typically include:

  • All core vaccinations and boosters
  • Flea and worm treatments
  • Annual health checks
  • Discounts on neutering or dental care

Prices range from £10 to £20 per month, depending on what’s included. If you're on a budget or want predictable costs, it’s often more economical than paying for each treatment separately.

Rabies Vaccine: Only for Travel

The rabies vaccination isn’t part of the standard UK vaccine schedule because the UK is rabies-free. However, if you’re travelling abroad with your dog (under the Pet Travel Scheme), the rabies jab becomes essential. It typically costs between £50 and £80 and must be done at least 21 days before travel.

You’ll also need a pet passport (now a GB animal health certificate) for each trip, which can cost £100 to £200, depending on the vet.

Kennel Cough: Often Overlooked, Sometimes Required

The kennel cough vaccine isn’t always included in standard booster packages, but many doggy daycares, boarding kennels, and training classes require it. It’s a nasal spray or oral liquid, usually priced at £25 to £40.

It’s worth mentioning to readers that kennel cough can spread in any social setting—not just kennels—so it’s often a good idea even if your dog doesn’t board.

What if You Can’t Afford Vaccinations?

For dog owners on low incomes, there are charities and support schemes that offer reduced-cost or free vaccinations, such as:

  • PDSA (People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals)
  • Blue Cross
  • RSPCA clinics in some areas
  • Local vet schools or council-run pop-up events

Including a sentence or two about this helps make your content more inclusive and empathetic.

Booster Reminders and Digital Records

Some vets offer text or email reminders for boosters, which helps avoid missing a vaccine window. There are also apps and services that help track your dog’s vaccination history digitally, which can be helpful for frequent travellers or if you change vets.

Potential New Topic Spin-Offs

You could also turn these details into stand-alone content such as:

  • "How to save money on dog vaccinations in the UK"
  • "Are pet health plans worth it?"
  • "What’s included in a dog’s first year of vet care?"
  • "Dog vaccinations explained: what they’re for and why they matter"

Summary

Dog vaccinations in the UK typically cost between £60 and £90 for a puppy course and £40 to £70 for annual boosters. While costs can vary, the protection they offer is priceless. Vaccines prevent life-threatening diseases, protect the wider dog community, and ensure you can travel and socialise with your pet safely. Whether you’re welcoming a new puppy or updating your adult dog’s health routine, staying on top of vaccinations is one of the simplest and most effective ways to keep them happy and healthy.

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