How much do puppy & dog vaccines cost in 2025?

As a new puppy parent, feeling excited and overwhelmed is natural.

Puppies bring joy, companionship, and endless cuddles—but they also come with responsibilities, including vaccinations.

Vaccinations are vital to keeping your furry friend healthy and safe, and if you’re wondering, “How much does a puppy and dog vaccination cost?” you’re in the right place.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the costs, types, and importance of puppy and dog vaccinations in 2025.

RELATED: New Puppy Checklist: 15 Things You Must Do

A pug getting a vaccine; vaccine costs in 2025

Why Are Puppy & Dog Vaccinations Important?

Vaccinations are your puppy’s first line of defense against life-threatening diseases.

The American Veterinary Medical Association also wrote that vaccines help improve our pets' overall quality of life and have prevented death and diseases in millions of animals within the last century.

Puppies are especially vulnerable to illnesses like parvovirus and distemper, which can spread quickly and be fatal without proper prevention.

Core vaccines, such as those protecting against rabies and distemper, are necessary for all dogs.

Not only do they safeguard your pet’s health, but some, like the rabies vaccine, are legally required in most areas.

Keeping your dog’s vaccinations up to date will help protect other pets and people in your community.

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Types of Vaccines for Puppies and Dogs

The American Animal Hospital Association's task force for canine vaccination has separated vaccines into two categories: core and non-core.

Core Vaccines

Core vaccines are essential for every dog, regardless of their lifestyle or location. These include:

  • DHPP: Protects against distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, and parvovirus.
  • DA2PPC: Protects against both canine adenovirus types 1 & 2, also known as canine hepatitis.
  • Rabies: Protects against the deadly rabies virus that is transmissible to humans.

The only reason why a core vaccine may not be administered is when there is a specific medical reason not to.

Non-Core Vaccines

Non-core vaccines are optional and recommended based on your dog’s lifestyle and environment.

Our friend, Dr. Lyndsey Kingsley of Bettervet, likes to call them “Lifestyle Vaccines,” and she discussed them further in the video below.

Lifestyle vaccines often include:

  • Bordetella: Protects against kennel cough, which is common in dogs that frequent daycare or boarding facilities.
  • Leptospirosis: Protects against a bacterial infection that spreads through water or soil contaminated by animal urine.
  • Lyme Disease: Recommended for dogs in areas with a high tick population.
  • Canine Influenza: Recommended for high-risk dogs or dogs that travel often.

Your veterinarian will help you determine which vaccines are right for your pet.

RELATED: Puppy Shot Schedule: A Detailed Guide

How Much Do Puppy Vaccinations Cost in 2025?

First-Year Puppy Vaccination Costs

The first year of a puppy’s life requires several rounds of vaccinations. Here’s a typical breakdown of costs:

Vaccine Frequency Average Cost (2025)
DHPP (Distemper) 3 doses $20–$40 per dose
Rabies Once yearly $15–$25
Bordetella Annually $20–$50
Leptospirosis Annually $20–$40
Lyme Disease Annually $30–$50

Most veterinarians bundle these vaccinations into packages to make them more affordable.

A full set of core vaccines for your puppy can range between $75 and $150, excluding exam fees.

Additional Costs

  • Exam Fees: Most vets charge $40–$60 per visit.
  • Deworming: Typically $20–$50.
  • Microchipping: Optional but recommended, costing around $25–$50.

Costs for Adult Dog Vaccinations

After the first year, your dog will need booster shots to maintain immunity.

The costs are lower than the initial puppy vaccinations and are typically spaced 1–3 years apart.

Here’s what you can expect:

Vaccine Frequency Average Cost (2025)
DHPP (Booster) Every 1–3 years $20–$40
Rabies (Booster) Every 1–3 years $15–$25
Bordetella Annually $20–$50
Leptospirosis Annually $20–$40

Maintaining your dog’s vaccination schedule is much cheaper than treating preventable illnesses, which can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars in veterinary bills.

Low Cost Dog Vaccinations and Where to Find Them

Low-Cost Vaccination Options

If the cost of vaccinations feels daunting, there are several affordable options available:

Community Clinics

Local animal shelters and rescue organizations often host low-cost vaccination clinics.

These events provide core vaccines at a fraction of the price charged by private veterinarians.

Check with your local humane society for upcoming dates.

Mobile Vet Clinics

Retail chains like Petco and PetSmart frequently host mobile vet clinics.

These offer convenient, affordable vaccine packages for both puppies and adult dogs.

Pet Insurance

Many pet insurance plans cover vaccinations as part of their wellness packages.

While you’ll pay a monthly premium, the savings on routine care can make it worthwhile.

Tips to Save on Puppy & Dog Vaccinations

  • Bundle Services: Many vets offer discounted packages that include multiple vaccinations, exams, and preventative care.
  • Compare Prices: Call different clinics and mobile vet services to find the best rates.
  • Utilize Wellness Plans: Some veterinary practices offer wellness plans with monthly payments that cover vaccinations and exams.
  • Combine Visits: Schedule vaccinations alongside regular checkups to save on additional exam fees.

RELATED: 18 Ways to Save Money on Dog Care, Health, Vet Bills and Medicine

What Happens If You Skip Vaccinations?

Skipping vaccinations can lead to serious health risks for your dog.

Diseases like parvovirus, distemper, and rabies are highly contagious and can be fatal.

Additionally, you may face legal consequences if your dog isn’t up-to-date on rabies vaccinations, as this is required in most states.

Prevention is always more cost-effective than treatment.

For example, treating parvovirus can cost upwards of $1,000, while the vaccine costs only $20–$40.

FAQs

How many times a year should I vaccinate my dog?

Most adult dogs only need core vaccines (like rabies and DHPP) every 1–3 years, depending on the vaccine.

Non-core vaccines like Bordetella may require annual boosters.

Your vet will recommend the appropriate schedule based on your dog’s needs.

At what age do you stop vaccinating your dog?

Dogs typically continue receiving vaccinations throughout their lives, although the frequency may decrease as they age.

Senior dogs still need protection, especially against rabies and other diseases. Always consult your vet for tailored advice.

What is the 7-in-1 vaccine for dogs?

The 7-in-1 vaccine protects against seven diseases: distemper, adenovirus, hepatitis, parainfluenza, parvovirus, leptospirosis (two strains), and coronavirus.

Covering multiple illnesses in a single shot is convenient and commonly given to puppies and dogs.

Conclusion: How Much are Puppy Vaccinations?

Vaccinating your puppy or dog is a crucial part of responsible pet ownership.

While the costs can vary, budgeting $75 to $150 for puppy vaccinations and planning for regular boosters in adulthood will ensure that your furry friend stays healthy and happy.

Taking advantage of low-cost options, wellness plans, and bundled services can help make vaccinations more affordable.

Remember, the peace of mind that comes with a healthy, protected pup is priceless.

How much did it cost you to vaccinate your puppy, and in what year?

Share your experiences or tips in the comments below!

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Jossana started writing in 2016, around the same time she first became a fur mom. She is the proud mama to a toddler and to mixed-breed dogs Zorro, Budak, Lucky, and Lily, who she loves spoiling with toys and treats.