pet vaccinations near me :: Article CreatorDog Vaccination Costs
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What's the Cost of Dog Vaccinations?
On average, dog vaccinations cost $20 to $60 each, depending on the vaccine type and overall veterinary fees in your area. Vaccines are typically administered during your dog's annual wellness visit, so the total visit cost includes an exam fee and will depend on how many vaccines your dog receives. Here is a breakdown of the expenses by individual vaccination and state.
Vaccine Average Price (Low) Average Price (High) Bordatella $28.48 $32.77 DAPP $33.29 $38.30 H3N2 & H3N8 Influenza $45.08 $51.87 Leptospirosis $20.38 $23.45 Lyme Disease $36.57 $42.08 Rabies $23.66 $27.19 6-in-1 vaccine $10 $99
Puppies receive antibodies from their mother's milk that temporarily protect them against infectious diseases, but that protection wanes after several weeks. Pet vaccinations start around 6 to 8 weeks of age, with doses given every two to four weeks until 16 weeks, enabling the puppy to make their own antibodies. Puppy vaccinations are customized to each pet depending on their current and expected lifestyle and needs.
Pet insurance can help cover the costs of dog vaccinations through pet wellness plans with routine care coverage. The providers below offer unique plan options that can cover vaccines your dog needs.
Core Vaccines
Vaccines are broken down into core and non-core categories based on disease severity and prevalence. Core vaccines are considered necessary for all pets because they protect against often fatal diseases and help protect the community from outbreaks. Core vaccines for dogs include:
Canine parvovirus vaccine: Canine parvo is highly contagious and attacks the gastrointestinal tract and immune system, leading to severe dehydration, systemic infection and shock. Most puppies will survive with treatment, but treatment requires intensive care, which can become costly. Distemper vaccine: Canine distemper virus attacks the nervous system and respiratory tract and is often fatal. Dogs who survive typically have permanent neurologic damage. Wildlife can carry and transmit the virus, serving as a reservoir of infection. Canine hepatitis vaccine: Canine infectious hepatitis, which is caused by an adenovirus, attacks liver cells and can cause secondary clotting problems or kidney disorders. Around 10% to 30% of infected young dogs will die, but vaccination provides good immunity. Rabies vaccine: Rabies virus is nearly 100% fatal, attacking the brain and nervous system within days of infection. The virus is prevalent in many wildlife species, such as raccoons and bats, and is transmitted through bite wounds. The rabies vaccine is extremely effective and is required by law to protect pets and humans from infection. What Is the 5-in-1 Vaccine?
The 5-in-1 or 4-in-1 vaccine for dogs combines core vaccines into a single injection. Parvovirus, distemper, adenovirus and canine parainfluenza comprise the 4-in-1 vaccine; the 5-in-1 vaccine also includes protection against leptospirosis. This combination is often referred to as the DAPP, DHPP, DA2PP or DAPP+L vaccination, or the canine distemper combination vaccine. Most veterinary clinics use the combination vaccine rather than the individual components to minimize the number of injections required.
Optional Dog Vaccines
Optional dog vaccines are also known as lifestyle or non-core vaccines because they are administered only to dogs at high risk for contracting each disease. A dog's risk level is assessed during puppyhood and then reassessed during each annual wellness visit to determine whether their vaccine protocol is appropriate. Optional vaccines for dogs include:
Bordetella vaccine: The Bordetella vaccine protects against the bacteria that commonly cause kennel cough and is recommended for dogs who spend time at dog parks, daycare, boarding kennels, dog sports or training classes. This vaccine does not completely prevent infection, but it lessens infection severity and helps dogs recover faster. Canine influenza vaccine: Dogs at risk for Bordetella infection are also at risk for canine influenza, an airborne infection. The canine influenza vaccine does not completely prevent infection, but it can lessen disease severity, reducing the likelihood of complications, including pneumonia. Leptospirosis vaccine: Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that dogs can pick up from water sources contaminated with infected urine. Leptospirosis causes severe liver and kidney damage and can be fatal for some dogs. Vaccination provides effective immunity. Lyme disease vaccine: Ticks transmit Lyme disease, which is caused by Borrelia burgdorferi. This vaccine is recommended for pets who spend time outdoors, and especially those who go hiking or camping with their owner. What's the Best Puppy Vaccination Schedule?
Your puppy's vaccination schedule depends on when vaccinations begin and how many total vaccinations they need. Expect vet visits every few weeks until your puppy is at least 4 months old. Here is an overview of a typical puppy vaccination schedule.
Age Vaccine 6-7 Weeks DHPPi L* 9-10 Weeks DHPPi L* Booster 12-16 Weeks DHPPi L* Booster, Rabies 1 year DHPPi L*, Bordetella, Canine Influenza, Leptospira, Lyme Disease, Coronavirus Annually Bordatella, Leptospira, Influenza, Lyme Disease, Coronavirus, Canine Parainfluenza, Canine Influenza Every 3 years DHPPi L* Booster Vaccination schedule for puppies over 16 weeks of age. *Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza. Source: American American Hopsital Association (AAHA) How Often Do Dogs Need to be Vaccinated?
After the initial puppy vaccination series, adult dogs need vaccine boosters throughout their life. The first vaccine stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies to fight the targeted disease, while boosters help to reinforce this response.
All vaccinations are boosted one year after the puppy series ends. After this, dogs receive some vaccines every three years and others yearly, depending on the manufacturer's labeling and veterinarians' recommendations.
Vaccine Dose Timeline Booster DHPP* 3 doses 2–4 weeks apart 1 year after initial vaccination series, boosters every 3 years Rabies As required by state law As required by state law As required by state law Leptospira 2 doses 2–4 weeks apart, starting at 12 weeks Annually Canine Lyme Disease 2 doses 2–4 weeks apart Annually Bordetella 1 dose – Annually Canine Parainfluenza 1 dose – Annually Canine Influenza 2 doses 2-4 weeks apart Annually Vaccination schedule for puppies under 16 weeks of age. *Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza. Source: American American Hopsital Association (AAHA) Are Dog Vaccinations Required?
Rabies vaccination is required by law and is regulated by individual states and counties. Each county legislature sets rabies control laws and rules. In contrast, the Animal Control Department typically enforces these laws and works with local veterinarians to protect pets in their communities.
No other dog vaccinations are required; however, the DAPP combination, which includes four core vaccines, is highly recommended to protect your pet and others in your community.
Summary of Dog Vaccination Costs
Dog vaccinations typically cost between $20 and $50 each. Here are the average costs for each dog vaccine:
Rabies vaccine: $23 to $27 DAPP vaccine: $33 to $38 Leptospirosis vaccine: $20 to $24 Lyme vaccine: $36 to $41 Bordetella vaccine: $28 to $33 Canine parainfluenza and influenza vaccines: $45 to $52 How To Lower the Cost of Vaccines for Dogs
Pet parents can lower the costs of puppy vaccines by adopting a puppy from a shelter or rescue, which may include vaccinations in the initial adoption fee. You can lower adult dog vaccination costs using the following strategies:
Visit low-cost vaccine clinics in your area Re-evaluate your dog's vaccine risk with your veterinarian each year Adopt an every-three-year vaccine protocol where appropriate Ask your veterinarian about vaccination packages with bundled costs Remember that low-cost vaccination clinics provide vaccinations only — a complete physical examination and other wellness services are still recommended annually for all pets.
Pet Insurance for Dogs
You can purchase a pet health insurance policy for your dog to cover expenses related to accidents or illnesses. You will pay a monthly premium to keep your policy active, and the insurance company will reimburse you for a percentage of the costs associated with your pet's care, minus any applicable deductible.
While pet insurance plans help to ensure you're prepared for the unexpected, most policies do not cover wellness or preventive pet care services, including vaccinations. For an additional fee, you can add wellness coverage to some policies, which will then reimburse you up to a certain amount for vaccinations and other services, such as a microchip, heartworm test, heartworm prevention, deworming and spaying or neutering.
What Pet Insurance Could Save You
Let's say your pet needs four vaccinations that would cost you $160 total. With an 80% reimbursement rate, you would pay $32 out of pocket.
Frequently Asked Questions on Cost of Dog Vaccinations How much is the 5-in-1 vaccine for puppies?
The DAPP combination vaccine for puppies costs an average of $33 to $38 per dose. The combination vaccine may cost a bit more when combined with leptospirosis.
What vaccines does my dog really need?
All dogs should receive core vaccines, including distemper, hepatitis, parvo and rabies vaccines. The rabies vaccine is legally required.
What happens if your dog is not vaccinated?
Unvaccinated dogs are more likely to acquire infectious diseases than vaccinated dogs. Many unvaccinated puppies become sick within their first few months of life, and die or suffer long-term complications.
When should my dog receive their first vaccine?
Puppies should receive their first vaccination between 6 and 8 weeks of age. A breeder or shelter may provide the first vaccination before you bring your pet home. Schedule a visit with your veterinarian as soon as you adopt a new pet, and bring their vaccination records with you to determine when they need their next booster.
Does Pet Insurance Cover Vaccines?
Key points
Pet insurance usually does not cover routine or preventive care, including vaccines. Adding a wellness plan to your pet insurance policy can provide vaccination coverage. Most pet insurance companies offer a wellness plan add-on, but coverage will vary and may not be enough to cover all your pet's annual vaccination costs. Does pet insurance cover vaccines?
Pet insurance plans generally do not cover vaccinations because they are considered preventive or routine care. However, you can often add wellness coverage to your pet insurance plan for an additional charge.
How does pet health insurance cover vaccinations?
Although your pet's accident and illness plan may not cover vaccinations, many insurance companies offer pet insurance that covers vaccinations in the form of wellness plans. Typically, for an additional cost, a pet wellness plan is available to cover your pet's routine care needs.
Besides vaccinations, a pet wellness plan can also cover:
Annual wellness exams. Blood and fecal testing. Dental cleaning. Deworming. Flea and heartworm preventatives. Microchipping. Neutering and spaying. Titer testing. Does pet insurance cover other shots?
Pet insurance covers shots if they are required as part of the treatment protocol for a covered injury or illness that is not a pre-existing condition.
For example:
If your pet develops diabetes and needs insulin injections, your pet insurance policy may cover the insulin shots. If your veterinarian administers a steroid shot to treat your pet's injury or illness, your pet insurance plan will typically cover the costs. If a licensed veterinarian prescribes the treatment, your pet insurance policy will likely cover Cytopoint allergy injections to treat your pet's allergies. But if the shot is related to preventive or routine care for your pet's overall health, your pet insurance plan probably won't cover it.
Which pet insurance companies offer vaccination coverage?
Many of the best pet insurance companies offer vaccination coverage through a wellness plan. The amount of coverage will vary by insurance company and plan.
Here are some examples of wellness plan coverage:
Embrace: Covers up to $250, $450 or $650 of all preventive expenses annually, depending on the wellness plan you choose. Figo: Covers between $20 to $100 per year for vaccinations, depending on the wellness plan tier offered when you buy a plan. ManyPets: Covers up to $150 per year for routine exams and vaccinations. Paw Protect: Covers up to $250, $450 or $650 per year for preventative care. PetsBest: The EssentialWellness plan covers vaccinations up to $45 and the BestWellness plan covers up to $55. Spot: Covers select vaccinations up to $40 with a Gold plan and up to $75 with a Platinum plan. What vaccinations are covered with pet wellness plans?
The types of vaccinations pet wellness plans cover will vary by insurance company and plan. "However, many pet wellness plans typically include core vaccinations that are considered essential for preventing common and potentially serious diseases in pets," said James Ross, the director of field operations for The Vets, an at-home veterinary care company.
The core vaccines for dogs usually include:
Adenovirus-2, which causes hepatitis in dogs. Distemper. Parainfluenza. Parvovirus. Rabies. The core vaccines for cats typically include:
Feline calicivirus (FCV). Feline herpesvirus-1 (FHV-1). Feline panleukopenia (FPV). Feline leukemia (FeLV) for cats under one year old. Rabies. Additional vaccines may be eligible for reimbursement under your pet insurer's wellness plan. Comparing plan coverage and the routine vaccinations your pet needs to live a healthy life can help you choose the right wellness plan coverage.
What vaccines does my pet need?
The vaccines your pet needs will depend on several factors like its age, where you live, your lifestyle and your pet's species. "Individual veterinary recommendations may vary, and consulting with a veterinarian is crucial to tailor the vaccination plan to the specific needs of your pet," said Ross.
Rabies is usually required by law for all dogs and cats.
The remaining core dog vaccines are often given in a single combined shot called canine DHPP or DHLPP. The shot is administered in two or three doses, depending on the dog's age, with two to 16 weeks between shots, and then a booster annually or every three years.
Depending on your lifestyle and region where you live, your veterinarian may also recommend the following vaccines for your dog:
Bordetella bronchiseptica. Borrelia burgdorferi (canine Lyme disease). Canine influenza virus. Crotalus atrox (western diamondback rattlesnake). Leptospira. If your cat is older than one year, your vet may recommend the feline leukemia virus (FeLV). Depending on your geographic location and your cat's lifestyle, your vet may also recommend vaccines for Bordetella bronchiseptica and Chlamydophila felis.
What is the annual cost of vaccinations?
Your annual cost of vaccinations will vary based on factors like:
Any other services included in the vet visit. The fees the veterinarian charges. Where you live. Your pet's age and species. "The cost of basic core vaccinations for dogs and cats in the United States typically ranges from $50 to $100 or more," said Ross. However, some vets will offer packages for a vaccination schedule that lowers the overall cost, especially if you have a kitten or puppy.
Individual dog vaccines can range from $20 to $75 per vaccine, while cat vaccinations typically cost between $20 to $50 per dose.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) Does pet insurance cover kitten vaccines?
Pet insurance can cover vaccinations for kittens if you also purchase a wellness plan with your pet's accident and illness plan. Wellness plan coverage for vaccines can vary, so it's a good idea to compare different plan options with multiple pet insurance companies to find the plan that meets your needs and budget.
What is generally covered by pet insurance?
Pet insurance covers veterinary care for your pet's accidents and illnesses (unless you buy an accident-only plan). This can include hereditary and congenital conditions, diagnostic testing like CT scans and ultrasounds, surgeries and prescription medications. Alternative and holistic treatments may also be covered depending on the pet insurance company and plan.
Is pet vaccine coverage worth it?
Pet vaccine coverage may be worth it. Consider the cost of the pet wellness plan and your pet's annual vaccinations, plus any other benefits the plan may cover, like annual exam fees, microchipping or spaying and neutering. Comparing the out-of-pocket cost for your pet's preventive care and the total cost of the wellness plan add-on can help you determine if adding it to your pet insurance policy is worth the extra cost.
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How Much Do Dog Vaccinations Cost?
Key points
Dog vaccination costs typically fall within the range of $20 to $75 per vaccine, according to our analysis of rates. The total cost of first-year puppy shots can average around $75 to $100. A pet insurance policy with a wellness plan add-on can help reimburse you for some vaccination costs. The average cost of owning a dog is $4,512 per year, which includes expenses for vaccines and veterinary care. Vaccine prices vary in the U.S. Depending on your region. A comprehensive pet insurance policy with a wellness plan can help reimburse you for some vaccination and medical costs.
How much are dog vaccinations?
Individual dog vaccination costs can vary, but typically fall within the range of $20 to $75 per vaccine, according to our analysis of rates. In addition to the cost of vaccines, U.S. Dog owners pay an average of $67 per office visit according to our analysis.
Dogs typically receive shots annually or every few years, depending on the vaccine and veterinarian recommendations. Here's the average cost of each type of dog vaccine.
Note that vaccine costs can vary greatly by ZIP code and veterinarian.
What vaccines do dogs need?
According to the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), your dog may need these five vaccines, or booster shots if they got them as puppies:
Distemper. Hepatitis and Adenovirus or CAV-1 and CAV-2. Leptospirosis (depending on where you live and your vet's recommendation). Parvovirus. +/- Parainfluenza. Rabies (depending on state). Other vaccines, such as Lyme disease and Bordetella, may be considered a core vaccine, depending on your region. If you live in a region where pathogens have reached epidemic levels or your dog is surrounded by potential risks, they may be required to get additional vaccines.
What vaccines do puppies need?
The core vaccines in the U.S. That are strongly recommended include the DHPP or DHLPP (distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, parvo and parainfluenza). Your pup will also need a rabies vaccination in most states.
Animal shelters often charge less for vaccines and some are even free. If you adopt your dog from a shelter, it will have most likely been vaccinated up until the age that you got it.
Puppy vaccination schedule Dog vaccination schedule Breakdown of puppy and dog vaccine costs
Puppies need vaccines within the first year of their lives. Dogs need booster vaccines annually or every few years.
Distemper vaccine cost for dogs
Average cost: $38 (when administered as a DHPP shot)
The distemper combination vaccine costs an average of around $33 to $43 per vaccine, according to our analysis of rates. This is a core vaccine and it can be administered as a combination vaccine, referred to as DHPP, which protects your dog against five viruses: distemper, hepatitis (CAV-1 and CAV-2), parainfluenza and parvovirus. Your pup will likely need multiple boosters of this vaccine.
Canine distemper is a highly contagious virus that can be spread through airborne exposure, like coughing, barking and sneezing. Dogs can also contract the disease through contaminated food and water bowls.
Bordetella vaccine cost for dogs
Average cost: $32
The Bordetella vaccine costs around $30 to $40 for most dog owners, according to our analysis of rates. Bordetella bronchiseptica is the most common bacterial agent amongst dogs, causing inflammation of your dog's respiratory system, also known as kennel cough. Dogs in daycare centers, boarding kennels, training classes, parks and shows are usually required to have this vaccine.
Bivalent influenza (H3N8 & H3N2)
Average cost: $51
There are two different strains of canine influenza — H3N8 and H3N2. You may be able to get a 2-in-1 combination shot for both strains of canine influenza, and the shot typically costs anywhere from $46 to $60. Also known as dog flu, canine influenza is a contagious virus that can affect your dog's respiratory system.
Rabies vaccine cost for dogs
Average cost: $27
The rabies vaccine costs dog owners an average of around $24 to $32, according to our analysis of rates, but the cost can vary based on your location. Rabies is a potentially deadly viral disease that your dog can get if bitten by an infected animal. In the United States, most rabies-carrying animals are wild, like raccoons and bats. Most states require pet owners to vaccinate their dogs for rabies.
Leptospirosis vaccine cost for dogs
Average cost: $23
Leptospirosis vaccines cost around $20 to $28, according to our analysis of rates. You may be able to get a combination vaccine, called DHLPP, which administers the same vaccinations as a DHPP but includes leptospirosis.
Leptospirosis is a disease caused by the leptospira bacteria that can be found in the environment — like soil and water — and can be spread through contact with other infected dogs, wild animals and stagnant water like ponds and streams. Common signs of leptospirosis include lethargy, loss of appetite, stiffness or muscle pain, dehydration, vomiting and diarrhea.
Lyme disease vaccine cost for dogs
Average cost: $41
The Lyme disease vaccine is a non-core vaccine and costs anywhere from $37 to $49, according to our analysis of rates. Lyme disease can be transmitted to dogs through the bite of a black-legged tick. According to AAHA, two doses of the vaccine should be given to your dog two to four weeks apart, and the first dose can be given as early as eight or nine weeks of age. However, dogs can receive these doses regardless of age.
Parvo shot cost
Average cost: $38 (when administered as a DHPP shot)
According to Vetco, the vet clinic that services Petco, the parvo shot vaccine can cost dog owners $40 to $60. However, the parvo shot can be given as part of the DHPP combination vaccine which will lower your overall dog vaccination cost.
How to lower the vaccination cost for your dog
Dog vaccinations can be expensive, depending on where you live and your dog's risk of exposure. But there are ways to lower the costs. Try the following:
Consider a pet insurance plan
Standard pet insurance accident and illness plans don't cover vaccination costs, however, most of the best pet insurance companies offer wellness plans that you can add to your policy for an additional fee. Wellness plans can help reimburse you for costs like vaccinations, veterinarian visits and flea and heartworm prevention.
Compare pet insurance to help with vaccination costs
When shopping for pet insurance, it's a good idea to compare pet insurance quotes from multiple companies. This can ensure you're getting the best plan for the best price, and also help you find a pet insurance company that offers wellness plans to help cover the cost of vaccinations.
Low-cost vaccines for dogs
Some clinics offer low-cost vaccinations in a variety of packages, or may even vaccinate your pup or dog for free. Petco offers a "Low-Cost Vaccination Package" that includes puppy vaccines, shots and other preventative services. It also offers boosts, bundles and packages for older dogs.
The Humane Society of the United States provides an extensive list of resources that can help reduce your dog's vaccination costs.
Our insurance experts analyzed the cost of dog vaccinations, office visits, neutering and spaying and dental cleaning from 31 states. Rates were provided by Banfield Hospital.
Dog vaccinations cost FAQs
Are vaccinations required for a dog?
Most states require you to vaccinate your dog for rabies. Vaccination requirements vary by state. If your dog is around other dogs, like in a kennel, training facility or dog park, you may be required to vaccinate your dog with other vaccines, like distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus and parainfluenza.
Why are pet vaccines so expensive?
Dog vaccine costs will vary depending on factors like where you live. Dog owners in big, crowded urban areas may wind up paying more than dog owners in small rural towns. Pet insurance wellness plans can help cover dog vaccination costs. When your pet gets a qualifying vaccine, you can file a claim to get reimbursed up to your plan's limit.
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Stephanie Nieves is a writer, editor and insurance expert, having previously covered home and auto insurance at Policygenius. Her work has also appeared in Insider, Money, HerMoney, PayScale and The Muse. She holds a B.A. In writing and rhetoric from Hobart and William Smith Colleges.
Kara McGinley has over 6 years of experience writing, editing and reporting on insurance and the insurance industry. She is a deputy editor of insurance at USA TODAY Blueprint. She's been a licensed property and casualty expert in New York since 2021. Kara has been featured in several national publications including MSN, LifeHacker, Kiplinger, PropertyCasualty360, Policygenius, Rental Housing Journal and WRAL. Previously, she was a senior editor at Policygenius for over 3 years, where she specialized in homeowners and renters insurance. Before that, Kara was a freelance writer for different insurance and technology brands.
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