Puppy Vaccinations

Timeline for Puppy Vaccines

When you get your new puppy they will likely come with some information from the breeder. This will include their current vaccination record. You breeder will likely recommend a vet check once they have arrived in your home. 

Usually your puppy will have had their first vaccination around 6-8 weeks of age plus a vet check before you pick them up. This vaccine is normally a C3 (the C refers Canine and the 3 refers to the number of vaccines given in that vaccine dose). The vaccines in a C3 will need to be boosted over the next couple of months.

Our typical vaccine schedule is: C3 - C5 - C4

Your puppy will require their next set of vaccines when they are 10-12 weeks of age (2-4 weeks after they had their C3). This is a C5 that boosts the C3 vaccines and adds in 2 more vaccines. As there are now 5 vaccines it is called a C5 vaccine. At 14-16 weeks of age they receive their final puppy vaccine called a C4. (The Bordetella bronchiseptica does not beed to be boosted).

About 7 days after their C4 vaccine they are safe to explore public places where there are other dogs.

A Gentler Vaccine Experience for Your Dog

Thanks to new vaccine technology, we can now protect your pet with lower-volume vaccines designed to minimise the risk of reactions.

These advanced vaccines contain less unwanted cellular debris and excess proteins, which are widely known to contribute to vaccine reactions like swelling or soreness.

They can also be administered with smaller needles, making the experience quicker, gentler, and more comfortable for your pet without compromising on protection.

Common Vaccine Reactions

Lethargy & Mild Fever

  • Puppies may seem tired or less playful after vaccination.
  • Mild fever is also common as their immune system responds to the vaccine.
  • This usually resolves within 24–48 hours.

Localised Swelling or Tenderness

  • A small lump or mild swelling at the injection site is common.
  • The area may feel slightly warm or tender.
  • It typically goes away within a few days.

Decreased Appetite

  • Some puppies may eat less than usual for a short time after vaccination.
  • Appetite usually returns to normal within a day or two.

When to Call the Vet: More Serious Vaccine Reactions

While rare, serious reactions can still occur. Symptoms like like facial swelling, vomiting, difficulty breathing, or collapse require immediate veterinary care.

What do the above vaccines guard against?

C3

  • Canine Distemper Virus (CDV)

  • Canine Parvovirus (CPV-2)

  • Canine Adenovirus (CAV)

C5

  • Canine Distemper Virus (CDV) (Booster)

  • Canine Parvovirus (CPV-2) (Booster)

  • Canine Adenovirus (CAV) (Booster)

  • Canine Cough (comprised of Parainfluenza Virus (PI)

  • Bordetella bronchiseptica (Bb)

    C4

  • Canine Distemper Virus (CDV) (Booster)

  • Canine Parvovirus (CPV-2) (Booster)

  • Canine Adenovirus (CAV) (Booster)

  • Canine Cough (comprised of Parainfluenza Virus (PI) (Booster)