Vaccine facts
Dog vaccine types explained: what's in the jab your vet gives?
Vet invoices often list vaccines by abbreviation — DHP, L4, lepto — without much explanation. Here's what each one actually protects your dog against, in plain English.
DHP: the core combination jab
DHP covers three viral diseases: distemper, hepatitis, and parvovirus. All three spread easily between dogs and can be fatal, especially in puppies, which is why DHP is a core vaccine recommended for every dog in the UK.
L4 vaccine for dogs: what leptospirosis protection covers
Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection dogs can catch from contaminated water, soil, or the urine of infected wildlife — meaning even dogs that never leave the garden are at some risk. The L4 vaccine covers four common strains and is usually given as a combined injection alongside DHP, which is why "DHP vaccine" and "L4 vaccine" often appear as a single line on your invoice.
Lepto 2 vaccine vs L4: is there a difference?
Older leptospirosis vaccines covered two strains ("L2"); most UK practices have now moved to the four-strain L4 version, which offers broader protection. If your dog's record shows an older L2 vaccination, ask your vet whether an update to L4 is worth discussing at the next visit.
Core vs non-core dog vaccinations
"Core" vaccines — DHP and leptospirosis — are recommended for essentially every dog. "Non-core" vaccines are added based on individual risk: kennel cough for dogs that go to boarding kennels or shows, and rabies for dogs travelling abroad under a pet passport scheme. Your vet can help decide which non-core vaccines make sense for your dog's routine.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the DHP vaccine for dogs?
DHP stands for distemper, hepatitis and parvovirus — three serious viral diseases. It's considered a 'core' vaccine, meaning nearly every UK vet recommends it for all dogs regardless of lifestyle.
What is an L4 vaccine?
L4 is a leptospirosis vaccine covering four strains of the bacteria, which dogs can pick up from contaminated water, soil, or infected wildlife urine. It's often combined with DHP into a single injection.
Do dogs need vaccines every year?
Most core vaccines need an annual booster to maintain protection, though some vets now offer titre testing to check antibody levels before automatically re-vaccinating — ask your practice what they recommend.
What's the difference between core and non-core dog vaccines?
Core vaccines (DHP, leptospirosis) are recommended for every dog. Non-core vaccines like kennel cough or rabies are added based on individual lifestyle factors — boarding, dog shows, or travel abroad.