Vaccinations are one of the most essential parts of caring for a dog. They keep your pet protected from serious diseases and contribute to a healthier, safer community overall.
Yet, many pet parents are unsure about how much dog vaccinations cost in India, which vaccines are essential, and how often they should be given.
This guide explains everything you need to know about dog vaccination cost in India, from the different types of vaccines to schedules, average prices, and key things to remember before and after vaccination.
Types of Dog Vaccination
Dog vaccines are grouped into two categories - core and non-core - depending on their importance and the risks your dog is exposed to.
Core Vaccines
Core vaccines are essential for every dog, regardless of breed or lifestyle. They protect against some of the most contagious and potentially fatal diseases.
1. Rabies Vaccine
Rabies is a viral disease that affects the nervous system and is nearly always fatal once symptoms appear.
It can spread to humans through bites or scratches, which makes rabies vaccination both a health necessity and a legal requirement in India.
The rabies vaccine cost generally ranges between ₹300 and ₹500 per dose and must be repeated regularly as advised by the veterinarian.
2. Canine Distemper Vaccine
Canine distemper is a viral illness that attacks the respiratory, digestive, and nervous systems. It can cause coughing, fever, vomiting, and even seizures.
Distemper is often fatal in unvaccinated dogs, making this vaccine essential.
3. Canine Parvovirus Vaccine
Parvovirus causes severe vomiting and diarrhea, leading to dehydration and, in many cases, death in young puppies.
The virus spreads easily through contaminated surroundings, so early vaccination offers critical protection.
4. Canine Hepatitis Vaccine
This vaccine protects against adenovirus type 1, which causes liver inflammation and other organ complications.
Vaccination helps prevent both infection and long-term damage to the liver and kidneys.
These core vaccines are often administered as a combination shot, known as a 6-in-1 or 7-in-1 vaccine, which simplifies the process and minimizes stress for the dog.
Also Read: Most Dangerous Dog Breeds in India
Non-Core Vaccines
Non-core vaccines are optional and recommended based on a dog’s environment, activity level, and exposure risk.
1. Leptospirosis Vaccine
Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection spread through water, mud, or soil contaminated by infected urine.
Dogs that spend time outdoors or near stagnant water sources are more likely to be at risk. The vaccine prevents kidney and liver damage caused by the disease.
2. Bordetella (Kennel Cough) Vaccine
This vaccine is particularly useful for dogs that are boarded frequently or attend training centers, dog shows, or grooming facilities.
Kennel cough spreads through airborne droplets and can cause prolonged coughing and respiratory discomfort.
3. Parainfluenza Vaccine
Parainfluenza is another virus responsible for upper respiratory infections in dogs. Vaccinating against it helps prevent coughing, nasal discharge, and secondary infections.
4. Lyme Disease Vaccine
Lyme disease is caused by bacteria transmitted through tick bites. Dogs that live in or travel to tick-prone regions should receive this vaccine to protect against fever, joint pain, and kidney problems.
While non-core vaccines are not mandatory, they add an extra layer of protection for dogs with active lifestyles or frequent contact with other pets.
Why is Dog Vaccination important?
Dog vaccinations serve as preventive protection against dangerous illnesses. They prepare the immune system to recognize and fight infections before they can cause harm.
In India, diseases like parvovirus and distemper still occur frequently, especially in puppies that haven’t received their first shots.
Treatment for these diseases can be expensive and emotionally draining. Vaccination prevents this pain by offering early protection.
Vaccinations also protect public health. Rabies, for instance, is fatal for both animals and humans.
Keeping dogs vaccinated helps prevent outbreaks and ensures safer coexistence within communities.
Consistent vaccination is also required for travel, boarding, or grooming services.
Maintaining a vaccination record is an important part of responsible pet parenting and ensures your dog is welcome in any social or medical setting.
Cost of Dog Vaccination in India
The dog vaccination cost varies depending on location, clinic, and the type of vaccine. However, the general range across India is fairly consistent.
The rabies vaccine typically costs between ₹300 and ₹500. Core combination vaccines, which cover distemper, parvovirus, and hepatitis, generally fall between ₹700 and ₹1,500 per dose.
Additional vaccines, such as leptospirosis or kennel cough, usually cost ₹400 to ₹900.
For puppies, the total vaccination expense in the first year - covering all essential and recommended vaccines - usually comes to around ₹3,000 to ₹5,000.
For adult dogs, yearly boosters cost between ₹1,500 and ₹3,000 on average.
Prices may be slightly higher in metro cities and lower in smaller towns.
Many clinics and NGOs organize annual vaccination drives at subsidized rates, making it easier for pet parents to stay consistent with their schedules.
While the upfront cost might seem like an additional expense, it’s significantly more affordable than treating diseases like parvovirus or distemper, which can run into tens of thousands of rupees in hospitalization and medication costs.
Also Read: Best Small Dog Breeds in India
Puppy Vaccination Schedule for All Breeds
Puppies are born with temporary immunity from their mothers, but this natural protection fades after a few weeks.
A proper vaccination schedule ensures they develop their own strong immune defense.
The first vaccine is generally given when the puppy is between six and eight weeks old. This initial shot protects against distemper, parvovirus, and hepatitis.
A second booster is given three weeks later to reinforce immunity.
At around twelve weeks, the rabies vaccine is administered, which is both legally required and medically vital.
Finally, between fourteen and sixteen weeks, a last booster helps complete the primary series of core vaccines.
Depending on the puppy’s lifestyle and exposure, your vet may recommend additional vaccines, such as leptospirosis or kennel cough, at around six months.
When the puppy reaches one year, the first annual booster is due.
Following this schedule carefully helps build lifelong protection and keeps the risk of infection extremely low.
Adult Dog Vaccination Schedule for All Breeds
Once the primary series is complete, adult dogs require regular boosters to maintain immunity. The first booster for both rabies and core vaccines is due around the dog’s first birthday.
After that, most dogs receive a rabies shot annually, while other core vaccines are given every one to three years, depending on the vaccine type and your vet’s advice.
Dogs that travel frequently, attend boarding centers, or live in areas with higher risks of infection may need additional non-core vaccines.
Senior dogs with weaker immune systems may also require customized schedules based on their health condition.
A short annual vet visit helps ensure your dog’s vaccination plan stays up to date and suitable for their lifestyle.
Key Factors to Keep in Mind While Doing Dog Vaccinations
A few important steps can make vaccination easier and more effective for your pet:
- Always ensure your dog is healthy and free from fever, infection, or fatigue before vaccination.
- Inform your vet about any recent illnesses, allergies, or medications your dog is on.
- After vaccination, mild drowsiness or soreness near the injection site is normal and usually fades within a day.
- Keep your dog hydrated and rested for a day or two afterward. Avoid long walks or baths immediately after vaccination.
- Never skip or delay booster shots. Vaccines work best when doses are given at the right intervals.
- Maintain a vaccination record - both physical and digital - to track future appointments and ensure travel readiness.
Vaccinations are quick, simple, and can prevent months of stress and expensive treatment later.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does dog vaccination cost in India?
A full vaccination plan for puppies costs around ₹3,000–₹5,000, while annual boosters for adult dogs range from ₹1,500–₹3,000.
Is the rabies vaccine mandatory?
Yes. Rabies vaccination is legally required in India and protects both pets and humans.
How often should dogs be vaccinated?
Puppies need several doses during their first few months, and adult dogs require yearly or triennial boosters depending on the vaccine.
Can vaccinations cause side effects?
Mild side effects such as tiredness or swelling are normal. Severe reactions are rare but should be reported to a veterinarian immediately.
Can dogs be vaccinated at home?
Only licensed veterinarians should administer vaccines to ensure safety and correct dosage.
Are there affordable vaccination options?
Many veterinary clinics and welfare organizations conduct vaccination camps or offer annual packages at discounted rates.
What happens if I miss a booster dose?
Missing a booster can lower immunity. Consult your vet; in some cases, a fresh vaccination cycle may be required.
Conclusion
Vaccination is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to ensure a dog’s well-being.
It protects your pet from dangerous diseases, helps reduce community infections, and gives you the comfort of knowing your dog is safe.
The dog vaccination price in India is relatively affordable, and staying consistent with the schedule can save both money and heartbreak in the long run.
Whether you’ve just brought home a playful puppy or are caring for an older companion, regular vaccinations, timely boosters, and veterinary guidance form the foundation of a healthy, happy life for your pet.
A few preventive steps today can lead to many more joyful, tail-wagging years together.
