Dog Vaccination Schedule in India: A Vet’s Complete Guide (2026)

Every week at our clinic in Ghaziabad, we meet loving pet parents who are confused about vaccines: Which ones are essential? When should the first shot be given? Do adult dogs really need boosters every year? This guide answers all of it, based on how we actually vaccinate dogs at WAAT Pet Clinic.

Why vaccination matters so much in India

Diseases like canine parvovirus, distemper and rabies are still common in India — far more than in many other countries. Parvo alone can be fatal for unvaccinated puppies within days, and rabies is a legal and public-health requirement. Vaccination is the cheapest life insurance you will ever buy for your dog.

The core puppy schedule

• 6–8 weeks: First multi-component vaccine (5-in-1 / 7-in-1 / 9-in-1 covering distemper, parvo, hepatitis, parainfluenza, leptospirosis and more).
• 9–12 weeks: Second booster of the multi-component vaccine.
• 12–16 weeks: Third booster + Anti-Rabies vaccine.
• Every year after: Annual booster of the combination vaccine and anti-rabies.

Common mistakes we see

1. Stopping after one shot

A single puppy shot does not give lasting protection. The booster series exists because a mother’s antibodies interfere with early doses — skipping boosters leaves a dangerous gap.

2. Vaccinating a sick or worm-loaded puppy

Vaccines work best in a healthy body. That is why we deworm before vaccinating and do a quick health check first.

3. Missing the yearly booster

Immunity fades. Mark the due date, or let us send you a WhatsApp reminder — we track every patient’s schedule at the clinic.

What about street-rescued or adult dogs with no history?

We treat them as unvaccinated: a primary dose, a booster after 3–4 weeks, plus anti-rabies. It is never too late to start.

Not sure where your dog stands? Bring any old records (or just your dog!) and we will build a catch-up schedule in one visit.