Normanhurst Vet’s Complete Guide to Your Dog’s Vaccination Schedule in Australia

Ensuring your dog’s health and longevity begins with a well-structured vaccination plan. At Normanhurst Vet, we understand the importance of timely vaccinations in protecting your furry friend from preventable diseases. This guide provides an in-depth look at the dog vaccination schedule in Australia, helping you make informed decisions for your pet’s well-being.

Understanding the Importance of Dog Vaccinations

Vaccinations play a crucial role in safeguarding dogs against various infectious diseases. By adhering to a recommended dog vaccination schedule, you not only protect your pet but also contribute to the broader community’s health by preventing disease outbreaks.

Core and Non-Core Vaccines: What’s the Difference?

Core Vaccines: These are essential for all dogs, regardless of their lifestyle or location. They protect against:

  • Canine Parvovirus
  • Canine Distemper Virus
  • Canine Adenovirus (Hepatitis)

Non-Core Vaccines: Recommended based on specific risk factors such as geographic location, lifestyle, and exposure to other animals. These include:

  • Bordetella bronchiseptica (Kennel Cough)
  • Canine Parainfluenza Virus
  • Leptospirosis
  • Understanding Common Canine Diseases Covered by Vaccinations
  • Canine Parvovirus

Understanding Common Canine Diseases Covered by Vaccinations

Canine Parvovirus

How it spreads: Parvovirus is a highly contagious virus that spreads through infected dog faeces. It can survive in the environment for long periods, making parks, footpaths, and communal areas risky for unvaccinated dogs.
How it affects dogs: It attacks the gastrointestinal system, causing severe vomiting, diarrhoea (often bloody), dehydration, and can lead to death without urgent treatment.
How common in NSW: Sadly, parvovirus is still a major concern in many parts of NSW, particularly in areas with lower vaccination rates or where dogs congregate in large numbers. Cases are often reported in outer suburbs and regional towns.

Canine Distemper Virus

How it spreads: This virus spreads through respiratory droplets from an infected dog’s coughs, sneezes, or shared water bowls.
How it affects dogs: It attacks the respiratory, gastrointestinal and nervous systems, often causing fever, nasal discharge, coughing, lethargy, seizures and in severe cases, death. Survivors can suffer permanent neurological issues.
How common in NSW: Thanks to vaccinations, distemper is now rare in urban NSW, but outbreaks can still occur, particularly in stray or unvaccinated dogs.

Canine Adenovirus (Infectious Canine Hepatitis)

How it spreads: This virus is spread through bodily fluids like urine, saliva or nasal discharge from infected dogs.
How it affects dogs: It causes inflammation of the liver, eyes, and kidneys. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and sometimes jaundice. It can become life-threatening quickly in puppies.
How common in NSW: Less common due to routine vaccinations, but still a risk in unvaccinated dogs or areas with stray populations.

Bordetella bronchiseptica (Kennel Cough)

How it spreads: Kennel Cough spreads through the air when an infected dog coughs or sneezes. It can also linger on surfaces like water bowls, leashes, or human hands. Dogs in high-traffic areas — like boarding kennels, dog parks, groomers, or daycare — are most at risk.
How it affects dogs: Causes a dry, hacking cough that may sound like gagging. Some dogs may also have nasal discharge, sneezing, or fever. While Kennel Cough is usually mild, it can be distressing and persistent. In puppies, senior dogs or those with compromised immune systems, it can develop into pneumonia or a more serious condition. Fortunately, the C5 vaccination helps reduce the severity and likelihood of infection.
How common in NSW: Very common, especially in dogs who regularly socialise with other dogs. Vaccination doesn’t always prevent infection, but it reduces severity and duration.

Canine Parainfluenza Virus

How it spreads: Spread through the air via sneezing or coughing, and through contact with contaminated surfaces like food bowls.
How it affects dogs: Often works alongside Bordetella to cause kennel cough. Symptoms include coughing, fever, nasal discharge, and reduced appetite.
How common in NSW: Quite common, particularly in urban and high-density dog populations.

Leptospirosis

How it spreads: Leptospirosis is caused by a bacterium spread through the urine of infected animals (particularly rodents). Dogs become infected by drinking or swimming in contaminated water, or through contact with infected soil.
How it affects dogs: It attacks the liver and kidneys, potentially leading to organ failure. Symptoms include lethargy, vomiting, jaundice, and fever. It’s a zoonotic disease, meaning it can be passed to humans.
How common in NSW: Cases have been reported in Sydney, particularly the Inner West and areas near waterways. Heavy rainfall and rodent activity increase risk, making the leptospirosis vaccine important in higher-risk suburbs.

The Dog Vaccination Schedule in Australia

Puppy Vaccination Schedule

  1. 6–8 Weeks: First dose of C3 vaccine (Parvovirus, Distemper, Hepatitis).
  2. 10–12 Weeks: Second dose of C3 vaccine plus first dose of Kennel Cough vaccine (C4).
  3. 14–16 Weeks: Final dose of C3 vaccine and second dose of Kennel Cough vaccine (C5).
  4. 16–18 Weeks: Optional Leptospirosis vaccine, depending on risk factors.

*Note: The C5 vaccination for dogs includes protection against both core diseases and Kennel Cough.

Why Puppies Are Vaccinated at Specific Ages

Puppies receive their first vaccinations between 6 and 8 weeks of age because maternal antibodies (passed from their mother) start to wear off around this time. While these antibodies protect them early in life, they can interfere with the effectiveness of vaccines — which is why multiple doses are spaced out over time to build strong, lasting immunity.

At 10–12 weeks, the second round of vaccines helps further develop their immunity. It also introduces protection against kennel cough, which becomes more relevant as puppies begin exploring the world, meeting other dogs, or attending puppy school.

By 14–16 weeks, the final dose ensures full immunisation against core diseases. We may recommend an additional C3 booster at 16–18 weeks for added protection, especially in high-risk environments. At this stage, the optional Leptospirosis vaccine may be considered, especially for dogs living near waterways, wildlife areas or suburbs with recent leptospirosis cases.

Safety Tips for Puppies During Their First 18 Weeks

  • Avoid high-risk areas like dog parks, beaches, or busy walking tracks until at least 1 week after the final vaccination at 16 weeks.
  • Keep your puppy on a lead when outdoors to prevent them from sniffing or ingesting unknown materials or faeces.
  • Use controlled socialisation such as puppy preschool or playdates with fully vaccinated dogs.
  • Always wash your hands and shoes before interacting with your puppy if you’ve been near unvaccinated animals or dog-heavy areas.

These safety measures, paired with a timely dog vaccination schedule, will help prevent disease and keep your puppy protected during their most vulnerable period.

Adult Dog Vaccination Schedule

  • Annual Boosters: Yearly dog vaccines* are essential to maintain immunity. Depending on the vaccine type and your dog’s health status, we may recommend:
    • Annual dog vaccines for Kennel Cough.
    • Triennial boosters for core vaccines.

*Consult with Normanhurst Vets to determine the appropriate schedule for your dog.

Understanding C3 and C5 Vaccinations

  • C3 Vaccination for Dogs: Protects against the three core diseases: Parvovirus, Distemper, and Hepatitis.
  • C5 Vaccination for Dogs: Includes the C3 components plus protection against Kennel Cough (Bordetella bronchiseptica and Parainfluenza virus).

*What is C5 vaccination for dogs? It’s a comprehensive vaccine that covers both core and common non-core diseases, making it suitable for most dogs, especially those in social environments.

Dog Vaccination Schedule Australia: Tailoring Schedules to Your Dog’s Needs

The dog vaccination schedule in Sydney may vary based on factors such as breed, age, health status, and lifestyle. For instance, dogs frequently attending daycare or boarding facilities may require more frequent non-core vaccinations. Always consult with us to develop a personalised vaccination plan.

Vaccination Dog Side Effects: What to Expect

While vaccinations are generally safe, some dogs may experience mild side effects, including:

  • Soreness at the injection site
  • Mild fever
  • Decreased appetite
  • Lethargy

These symptoms typically resolve within 24–48 hours. However, if your dog exhibits severe reactions such as vomiting, swelling, or difficulty breathing, contact us immediately on 02 9489 6000.

How Often Do Dogs Get Vaccinated?

The frequency of vaccinations depends on the type of vaccine and your dog’s health status:

  • Puppies: Multiple vaccinations between 6–16 weeks of age.
  • Adult Dogs: Annual dog vaccinations for non-core diseases and boosters every three years for core diseases, as recommended.*

*Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to keep your dog’s vaccination schedule up to date.

Dog Vaccinations Australia: Legal and Health Considerations

In Australia, while not all vaccinations are legally mandated, certain facilities (like boarding kennels) require proof of up-to-date vaccinations. Moreover, maintaining a proper dog vaccination schedule is crucial for public health and preventing disease outbreaks.

Annual Dog Vaccinations Australia: Staying on Track

Annual dog vaccinations in Australia are vital for maintaining your dog’s immunity against prevalent diseases. Regular boosters ensure that your pet remains protected throughout their life. Keep a record of your dog’s vaccination history and set reminders for upcoming appointments.

Dog Vaccinations Schedule Australia: A Quick Reference

Age Vaccination
6–8 Weeks C3 Vaccine
10–12 Weeks C3 + Kennel Cough (C4)
14–16 Weeks C3 + Kennel Cough (C5)
16–18 Weeks Optional Leptospirosis Vaccine
Annually Boosters for non-core vaccines
Every 3 Years Boosters for core vaccines (as advised)

 

*This schedule serves as a general guideline. Consult with us for a plan tailored to your dog’s specific needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the difference between C3 and C5 vaccinations?
A: C3 covers core diseases (Parvovirus, Distemper, Hepatitis), while C5 includes C3 plus protection against Kennel Cough.

Q: Is the Leptospirosis vaccine necessary for my dog?
A: It depends on your location and your dog’s lifestyle. Consult with us to assess the risk and determine if the vaccine is appropriate.

Q: How often should adult dogs be vaccinated?
A: Non-core vaccines typically require annual boosters, while core vaccines may be administered every three years, depending on our recommendation.

Q: Are there any side effects of dog vaccinations?
A: Most dogs experience mild side effects like soreness or lethargy, which resolve within a couple of days. Severe reactions are rare but require immediate veterinary attention.

Q: Can I delay my puppy’s vaccination schedule?
A: Delaying vaccinations can leave your puppy vulnerable to diseases. It’s crucial to adhere to the recommended schedule for optimal protection.

Q: How safe are vaccinations for older dogs (over 10 years)?
A: Vaccinations are generally safe and important for senior dogs, but they should always be tailored to the individual dog’s health, lifestyle, and exposure risks.

As dogs age, their immune systems can weaken, making them more vulnerable to infectious diseases. While older dogs may have built up some immunity from earlier vaccinations, booster shots—especially for core diseases like parvovirus, distemper, and hepatitis—are often still recommended to maintain protection.

That said, a comprehensive health check is usually performed by us before any vaccinations are given. If your dog has a chronic illness, organ dysfunction, or is taking immune-suppressing medication, we may suggest spacing out vaccines, running blood tests (known as antibody titre testing) to assess immunity, or adjusting the vaccination schedule.

At Normanhurst Vet, we take a case-by-case approach, ensuring that every vaccine given to a senior dog is truly necessary and safe. Our goal is always to protect without over-vaccinating.

Normanhurst Vet is committed to your dog’s health and happiness

Adhering to a proper dog vaccination schedule is a fundamental aspect of responsible pet ownership. At Normanhurst Vet, we’re committed to providing comprehensive care to ensure your dog’s health and happiness. Schedule an appointment with us today to discuss your dog’s vaccination needs and keep them protected against preventable diseases.

For more information about your dog’s vaccination schedule, or to book an appointment, please contact our friendly team at Normanhurst Vet Practice on 02 9489 6000.