One of the first things a new client asks me when booking pet sitting is: "What vaccines does my dog need?" As a pet sitter, I require proof of current core vaccines before accepting any booking — not because I'm being difficult, but because I'm caring for multiple dogs and need to protect them all.
Here's the complete vaccination guide — what's required by law in Texas, what's strongly recommended, what's optional based on lifestyle, and how to keep costs reasonable.
Core vaccines protect against diseases that are serious, easily transmissible, and present significant public health concerns. Every dog should have these regardless of lifestyle.
| Vaccine | Status | Initial Schedule | Boosters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rabies | Legally Required | 1 dose at 12–16 weeks | Booster at 1 year, then every 1–3 years per TX law |
| DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza) | Core | Series at 6–8, 10–12, 14–16 weeks | Booster at 1 year, then every 3 years |
These vaccines aren't legally required but are strongly recommended for Texas dogs based on local disease prevalence and lifestyle.
| Vaccine | Status | Schedule | Who Needs It |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bordetella (Kennel Cough) | Highly Recommended | Every 6–12 months | Any dog that interacts with other dogs — boarding, grooming, dog parks, training, pet sitters |
| Leptospirosis | Highly Recommended | 2 doses, 2–4 weeks apart; annual booster | Dogs that walk near standing water, creeks, wildlife areas — very common in Texas |
| Canine Influenza (CIV H3N2 + H3N8) | Optional | 2 doses, 2–4 weeks apart; annual booster | High-exposure dogs: frequent boarding, grooming, dog shows |
| Rattlesnake Vaccine | Optional | Annual | Dogs in rural or suburban areas with known rattlesnake presence — reduces severity of bites |
| Age | Vaccines Due | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 6–8 weeks | DHPP #1, Bordetella | Usually given by breeder or rescue before pickup |
| 10–12 weeks | DHPP #2, Leptospirosis #1 | Your first vet visit if not already done |
| 14–16 weeks | DHPP #3, Leptospirosis #2, Rabies | Rabies legally required at this visit |
| 12–16 months | DHPP booster, Rabies booster, annual prevention vaccines | First adult annual wellness visit |
Until your puppy has completed the full DHPP series (typically by 16 weeks), avoid areas with unknown dog exposure — dog parks, pet store floors, high-traffic walking areas. Their immune system isn't fully protected yet.
Low-cost vaccine clinics (Petco/PetSmart vaccine events, non-profit clinics, SNAP Texas) can cut this to $60–$120 for vaccines only — though they typically don't include a full wellness exam.
Vet care is one slice of the annual budget. Use our calculator to see the full picture — food, vet, grooming, and what you might be underestimating.
Calculate Dog Annual Cost →Rabies is the only vaccine required by Texas state law for dogs. Most Texas municipalities also require a current city pet license, which typically requires proof of current rabies vaccination. Check your specific city's requirements — most have this information on their animal services website.
Most boarding facilities and professional pet sitters (including myself) require current Rabies, DHPP, and Bordetella vaccines at minimum. Some also require Leptospirosis and Canine Influenza, especially for overnight boarding. Always check requirements before booking — your dog's records should be readily available from your vet.
Yes, and many vets support this approach, especially for small breeds. Rather than giving all vaccines at one visit, you can separate them by 2–3 weeks. Discuss this with your vet — they can help create a schedule that balances protection timing with minimizing the risk of reactions.
Yes. Most major Texas cities have low-cost vaccine options including Petco/PetSmart vaccination clinics, SNAP (Spay-Neuter and Vaccination Assistance Program) Texas, and various county animal services departments that offer periodic low-cost vaccine events. These are perfectly valid for core vaccines if cost is a concern.
Ask your vet for a physical copy of your dog's vaccination records after each visit and keep it in a folder or scan it to your phone. Many vets also use apps or portals where you can access records digitally. You'll need these records for boarding, pet sitters, dog parks, and if you move or change vets.