When should puppies have their first vaccination in the UK?

Most UK puppies receive their first vaccination course from six to eight weeks of age, with follow-up injections typically 2–4 weeks apart. Your vet will confirm timing based on when the puppy left its mother and local disease risk.

Do adult dogs need annual vaccinations?

Dogs need regular booster vaccinations, though not every component is given every year. Your vet will follow a schedule based on vaccine type and UK guidelines — often with a health check at the same visit.

Is kennel cough vaccination compulsory in the UK?

Kennel cough vaccination is not legally required, but many boarding kennels, day-care facilities and training classes ask for it. It is usually given as a separate nasal or oral vaccine from the core injection course.

A–Z topic · V

Vaccination schedules

Quick answer

UK puppies usually start vaccinations at **six to eight weeks**, with a second injection 2–4 weeks later and sometimes an additional dose; your vet confirms when public walks are safe. Adult dogs need **regular booster vaccinations** on a vet-recommended schedule — core vaccines protect against distemper, parvovirus, hepatitis and leptospirosis.

Key takeaways

Dogs need regular booster vaccinations, though not every component is given every year. Your vet will follow a schedule based on vaccine type and UK guidelines — often with a health check at the same visit.
Kennel cough vaccination is not legally required, but many boarding kennels, day-care facilities and training classes ask for it. It is usually given as a separate nasal or oral vaccine from the core injection course.

The full guide

Causes, symptoms, treatment options and when to call your vet — in the complete plain-English guide.

Read: Dog Vaccination Schedule UK Check symptoms

Frequently Asked Questions

When should puppies have their first vaccination in the UK?: Most UK puppies receive their first vaccination course from six to eight weeks of age, with follow-up injections typically 2–4 weeks apart. Your vet will confirm timing based on when the puppy left its mother and local disease risk.
Do adult dogs need annual vaccinations?: Dogs need regular booster vaccinations, though not every component is given every year. Your vet will follow a schedule based on vaccine type and UK guidelines — often with a health check at the same visit.
Is kennel cough vaccination compulsory in the UK?: Kennel cough vaccination is not legally required, but many boarding kennels, day-care facilities and training classes ask for it. It is usually given as a separate nasal or oral vaccine from the core injection course.