Dog Vaccination Schedule India: The Essential 5-Step Guide and Cost
Understanding the Dog vaccination schedule India is the most critical part of responsible pet ownership. Vaccinations are your puppy’s best defense against deadly, widespread diseases like Parvovirus and Distemper, which are unfortunately common in India.
This essential guide provides a bookmark-worthy puppy vaccination chart, outlines the mandatory legal requirements, and details the typical 7-in-1 vaccine cost and anti-rabies vaccine for dogs to help you budget effectively.
1. Core vs. Non-Core: Understanding Your Dog Vaccination Schedule India
Dog vaccines are categorized based on their necessity. Core vaccines are mandatory for every dog, regardless of location or lifestyle, due to the prevalence and severity of the diseases they prevent.
- Core Vaccines: Must be administered to all dogs. In India, this includes the combination vaccine (often called DHPPi or DAPP) protecting against Distemper, Parvovirus, Hepatitis, and Parainfluenza, plus the anti-rabies vaccine for dogs. For global vaccination standards and best practices, refer to the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) guidelines (External DoFollow Link: WSAVA Vaccination Guidelines).
- Non-Core Vaccines: Recommended based on lifestyle (e.g., frequent dog parks, boarding). Examples include Bordetella (Kennel Cough) and Canine Influenza.
2. The Complete Puppy Vaccination Chart and Timeline
Puppies are highly vulnerable and require a series of shots (boosters) until they are at least 16 weeks old to ensure robust immunity.
| Age of Puppy | Vaccine Dose | Type of Vaccine | Typical Cost (Approx. INR) |
| 6 – 8 Weeks | First Dose (DAPP/DHPPi) | Core (Initial protection against Distemper, Parvo) | ₹570 – ₹800 |
| 10 – 12 Weeks | 7-in-1 or 9-in-1 Booster | Core Booster + Leptospirosis (Lepto) | ₹700 – ₹1,000 (Varies by brand/clinic) |
| 14 – 16 Weeks | Rabies + DAPP Booster | Core & Mandatory anti-rabies vaccine for dogs | ₹150 – ₹600 (Rabies portion) |
| Annual | Rabies + Core Booster | Core Booster | ₹800 – ₹1,500 (Total annual cost) |
3. Mandatory Shot: Anti-Rabies Vaccine for Dogs
The rabies vaccine is not optional, it is a legal requirement in most Indian municipalities because rabies is a fatal disease that is transmittable to humans (zoonotic).
- First Dose: The anti-rabies vaccine for dogs is typically administered at 12–16 weeks.
- Booster Schedule: A booster shot is required one year later, and subsequent boosters are typically given annually or every three years, depending on the vaccine brand and local laws.
- Cost Estimate: The anti-rabies vaccine cost per dose in India typically ranges between ₹150 and ₹600 at private clinics, although government drives may offer it for less.
4. The Combination Shield: 7-in-1 Vaccine Cost Explained
The 7-in-1 vaccine is a popular combination administered during the puppy vaccination chart process. It provides comprehensive protection against the most severe diseases in a single shot.
- 7-in-1 Protection: This vaccine covers the core DHPPi diseases (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, and Parainfluenza) and adds two strains of Leptospirosis. The 7-in-1 vaccine cost is an investment in broad immunity.
- Cost: The 7-in-1 vaccine cost generally ranges from ₹570 to ₹1,000 per dose, depending on the manufacturer (Nobivac, Megavac) and the clinic’s location.
- Full Cost: The total cost to complete all core puppy vaccinations (including primary shots and boosters) in India will generally fall between ₹2,500 and ₹4,500.
5. Next Steps for Responsible Pet Owners
- Consult Your Vet: Always consult your veterinarian to create an individualized vaccination plan tailored to your dog’s age, breed, and local disease risk.
- Monitor Health: While vaccines are safe, mild side effects like soreness or lethargy are normal. Contact your vet immediately if you notice severe symptoms.
- Legal Compliance: Ensure you maintain and carry a vaccination card to prove legal compliance with pet laws India regarding rabies. For more information on legal rights and pet laws, refer to the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) circulars.
- Plan Ahead: If you are a new pet owner, ensure you have all your puppy essentials ready: First-Time Pet Owner’s Checklist: What You Need for Your New Puppy.
Need expert advice on a customized vaccination plan? Contact Karmakar Kennel at thekarmakarkennel@gmail.com for assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the rabies vaccine mandatory in India?
Yes, the anti-rabies vaccine for dogs is mandatory in most parts of India.
2. What is the difference between the 7-in-1 and 9-in-1 vaccines?
The 9-in-1 vaccine offers broader protection, covering everything in the 7-in-1 plus protection against two more strains of Adenovirus.
3. What is the average 7-in-1 vaccine cost?
The 7-in-1 vaccine cost per dose typically ranges between ₹570 and ₹1,000, depending on the city and clinic.
4. When should I give the first shot according to the puppy vaccination chart?
Puppies should receive their first DHPPi/DAPP vaccine at 6–8 weeks of age.
