Darmowa dostawa już od 99 złWhy it matters?
A puppy’s first vaccinations are essential to protect them—and others—from serious infectious diseases. This article explains when the first jab should happen, what it typically costs in the UK, what diseases are covered, and when you can safely start walking your pup.
When should you give the first vaccination?
Ideally at 6–8 weeks, once the puppy’s immune system responds to the vaccine. Early vaccination helps protect against potentially fatal childhood diseases.
How much does puppy vaccination cost in the UK?
Puppy vaccination costs vary by location, clinic, and quantity of vaccine, but typical UK prices are:
- Primary vaccination course (two injections): £40–£70; average ~£95–£102
- Full health check + two injections package: ~£82–£100 at many clinics
- Yearly booster vaccine: typically £50–£70
Additional vaccinations, like kennel cough or rabies, may add £20–£50
What do the first vaccines protect against?
Core vaccination covers several infectious diseases including:
- Optional non-core vaccines (based on risk): kennel cough (bordetella), rabies (if travelling abroad), Lyme disease or others—discuss with your vet
- Distemper, parvovirus, infectious canine hepatitis and leptospirosis—commonly given as a combined vaccine.
When should your dog get their first rabies vaccination?
In the UK, rabies vaccination is not mandatory for dogs that remain within the country, as the UK is currently rabies-free. However, if you plan to travel abroad with your dog (for example within the EU), rabies vaccination becomes a legal requirement as part of the Pet Travel Scheme (PETS).
Your dog can be vaccinated against rabies from 12 weeks of age, and the vaccination must be administered at least 21 days before travelling. The vaccine is usually valid for 3 years, but this depends on the product used – always check with your vet.
When can your puppy go outside?
Wait around 2 weeks after the second injection before letting your puppy mix with other dogs. This allows time for maximum immunity to develop .
What about quarantine?
Avoid public areas and contact with strange dogs until after the full vaccination course is complete (usually around 16 weeks old). This helps reduce infection risk while ensuring healthy socialisation.
Vaccination schedule in brief
| Age | Vaccination |
|---|---|
| 6–8 weeks | First dose of primary vaccine |
| +2–4 weeks | Second dose |
| 12 weeks | Rabies vaccine if travelling |
| Annual | Boosters for core diseases |
| Every year or 3 years | As advised for rabies and non-core |
Usually 2–3 core injections are spaced over 6–16 weeks, followed by boosters annually or every few years depending on disease and vaccine type
Summary
Your puppy’s first vaccination should start between 6–8 weeks old. A typical initial course (2 injections + health check) costs around £95–£102. Core vaccines protect against lifelong threats like distemper, parvo, and leptospirosis, with optional boosters for kennel cough or rabies. Avoid public exposure until immunity builds—usually 2 weeks after second shot and full course by 16 weeks. Always set your schedule with your vet for best care.
