Complete guide · updated 2026
Puppy vaccinations: the complete UK schedule and guide
Puppy vaccinations protect your dog against several serious, often fatal diseases in the first months of life, when a puppy's own immune system isn't yet strong enough to fight them off. This guide covers the standard UK dog vaccinations schedule, what each vaccine protects against, and when it's safe to let your puppy out for the first time.
The standard dog vaccine schedule in the UK
Most UK practices follow a similar pattern for dog vaccines, though exact ages can shift slightly by brand and vet:
- 6–8 weeks: first injection (core DHP + leptospirosis)
- 10–12 weeks: second injection, completing the primary course
- ~15 months: first annual booster
- Every year after: annual booster to maintain protection
What's in a dog vaccine: DHP, L4 and kennel cough
"Core" dog vaccines cover distemper, hepatitis and parvovirus — together often shortened to DHP — three viral diseases that can be life-threatening in unvaccinated puppies. Many vets combine this with leptospirosis protection in an "L4" combination jab, since leptospirosis is caught from contaminated water and soil that dogs encounter on ordinary walks. Kennel cough and rabies vaccines are usually optional, added if your puppy will be boarded, travel abroad, or attend shows.
When can a puppy go out after vaccinations?
Most UK vets recommend waiting 1–2 weeks after the second injection before walking your puppy in public spaces where unvaccinated dogs may have been. Puppy socialisation classes held indoors, and carrying your puppy outside rather than letting paws touch the ground, are common ways to start socialisation safely before that window closes. Always check the exact timing with your own vet, since it depends on the specific vaccine brand used.
How much does the puppy vaccination course cost?
Budget £90–£150 for the full primary course across two visits, plus roughly £40–£60 a year for boosters after that. See our full puppy vaccination cost guide for a price comparison by practice.
Frequently asked questions
When do puppies get their first shots?
Most UK vets give the first puppy vaccination at 6–8 weeks old, with a second injection 2–4 weeks later. Some practices add a third jab for breeds at higher parvovirus risk.
What vaccinations do puppies need?
The core UK puppy course covers distemper, hepatitis and parvovirus (often combined as 'DHP'), plus leptospirosis (usually part of an 'L4' combination). Kennel cough and rabies are optional extras your vet can advise on.
When do puppies get vaccinated?
The primary course runs from around 6–8 weeks to 10–12 weeks, followed by a first annual booster at around 15 months and yearly boosters after that.
What jabs do puppies need?
At minimum, most vets recommend the core DHP and leptospirosis combination. Kennel cough, and occasionally rabies, are added based on your puppy's lifestyle (boarding, travel, dog shows).
What age for puppy vaccinations?
6–8 weeks for the first injection is standard, though it can vary slightly by vaccine brand and vet — your practice will confirm the exact schedule at your puppy's first check-up.
How long after second injections can a puppy go out?
Most vets advise waiting 1–2 weeks after the second injection before your puppy walks in public areas, to allow full immunity to develop. Always confirm the exact timing with your own vet.