The puppy vaccination schedule in Australia usually starts at 6 to 8 weeks, with boosters every 2 to 4 weeks until your puppy is at least 16 weeks old. A further booster is recommended at 6 months. Your vet will tailor the exact timing to your puppy and where you live.
Why puppies need vaccinations
Vaccinations protect your puppy from serious and sometimes fatal diseases. Puppies get some protection from their mother’s milk, but it fades over the first few months. A course of vaccinations builds your puppy’s own protection.
Core vaccines: what C3 covers
RSPCA Australia lists three core vaccines that every dog in Australia should have:
- Canine parvovirus
- Canine distemper virus
- Canine adenovirus (which causes infectious canine hepatitis)
These are combined in one injection, known in Australia as the C3 vaccine.
What C5 adds: kennel cough protection
The C5 vaccine is the C3 plus protection against two causes of kennel cough:
- Canine parainfluenza virus
- Bordetella bronchiseptica
RSPCA Australia recommends kennel cough protection for dogs that regularly mix with other dogs, such as at dog parks, daycare, puppy preschool or boarding kennels.
Puppy vaccination schedule at a glance
This is a typical schedule based on RSPCA Australia’s guidance. Your vet may adjust it.
| Age | Vaccination |
|---|---|
| 6–8 weeks | First core vaccine (C3) |
| Every 2–4 weeks after | Boosters, often with kennel cough protection (making it a C5) |
| 16 weeks or older | Final puppy core vaccine |
| 6 months | Booster (or a blood test to check protection, if your vet recommends it) |
| Adult dogs | Core vaccines every 1–3 years, depending on the vaccine; kennel cough vaccines yearly |
RSPCA Australia gives one common example: vaccinations at 8, 12 and 16 weeks, giving three puppy vaccinations by 16 weeks.
Leptospirosis vaccine
Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that can also infect people. RSPCA Australia recommends the vaccine for dogs in at-risk areas, dogs with access to stagnant water, and dogs in contact with livestock or rodents. It’s given as two doses 4 weeks apart, then yearly. Ask your vet whether it’s recommended where you live.
When can my puppy go outside?
Ask your vet when your puppy is fully protected and can safely visit public places. Until then, RSPCA Australia advises avoiding dog parks and dogs with an unknown vaccination history.
Socialisation still matters during this time. Safe options include:
- Well-run indoor puppy classes that check vaccinations
- Visits at home with healthy, fully vaccinated dogs
- Carrying your puppy to see new sights and sounds
Starting house training early helps too. Read our tips on toilet training puppies and kittens.
What to bring to your puppy’s vaccination appointment
- Any vaccination records from the breeder or shelter
- Your puppy’s microchip details
- Questions about worming, flea and tick control, and desexing
Your vet will give your puppy a health check before each vaccination.
FAQ
What is the difference between C3 and C5?
C3 protects against parvovirus, distemper and adenovirus. C5 adds protection against two causes of kennel cough: parainfluenza virus and Bordetella bronchiseptica.
How many vaccinations does a puppy need?
Most puppies have 3 vaccinations between 6 and 16 weeks, then a booster at 6 months. Your vet will set the exact schedule.
Does my dog need vaccinations every year?
Core vaccines are given every 1 to 3 years, depending on the vaccine. Kennel cough and leptospirosis vaccines are usually yearly. RSPCA Australia recommends a yearly health check either way.
Does my dog need a rabies vaccine in Australia?
No. Australia is free of rabies, so dogs that stay in Australia don’t need it. If you plan to take your dog overseas, ask your vet.
Be ready for the unexpected
Puppies are curious and can get into trouble. Find out how dog insurance could help with unexpected vet bills.
Sources
This article is general information only and isn’t a substitute for advice from your vet. Your vet will recommend the right vaccination schedule for your puppy.