Which vaccines does a dog need
General information, not a diagnosis. For symptoms, consult a veterinarian.
Legally required in Romania: the rabies vaccine, annually, from three months of age.
Medically recommended: the combined DHPPi + Leptospirosis vaccine (distemper, infectious hepatitis, parvovirus, parainfluenza) and, optionally, the kennel cough vaccine (Bordetella). Total cost: ≈ €50–€80 in the first year, then ≈ €30–€45 annually.
What is legally required
In Romania, rabies vaccination is compulsory for all dogs from three months of age, with an annual booster. It is the only vaccine with a legal requirement. If a dog bites someone, or is bitten, an up-to-date rabies record is the first thing requested.
Full recommended schedule
| Vaccine | Protects against | When |
|---|---|---|
| Combined DHPPi | Distemper, infectious canine hepatitis, parvovirus, parainfluenza | 6–8 weeks, 10–12 weeks, 14–16 weeks, annual booster |
| Leptospirosis (L) | Leptospirosis, also transmissible to humans | 8–10 weeks, then annually |
| Rabies | Rabies | At 3 months, then annually (mandatory) |
| Bordetella + parainfluenza | Kennel cough | Optional: 8 weeks, annual or six-monthly (kennels, shows) |
The schedule is adapted by the vet to risk: an apartment dog in the city does not have the same profile as a dog living outdoors in a rural area or frequenting busy parks.
A puppy’s first vaccines
A puppy receives antibodies from its mother in the first weeks, but levels fall quickly. The first vaccine is therefore given at 6–8 weeks, with boosters three to four weeks apart. A puppy is not considered fully protected until after the third booster.
Before vaccinating, the puppy must be dewormed. Intestinal worms reduce the immune response and the vaccine does not protect properly.
Why parvovirus matters
Parvovirus is the most common cause of death in unvaccinated puppies. There is no specific antiviral treatment, only supportive care with fluids and antibiotics for secondary infections. Mortality in unvaccinated puppies can exceed 50%.
The virus survives in the environment for months. Do not take a puppy that is not fully vaccinated to places frequented by other dogs: parks, pet shops, shows, clinics.
Reactions after vaccination
Most reactions are mild and clear within 24–48 hours: tiredness, a small swelling or soreness at the injection site, reduced appetite for a day.
Call the practice immediately if you see facial or throat swelling, repeated vomiting, hives or breathing difficulty. These usually appear within the first 30 minutes, which is why you wait at the clinic after the injection.
What it costs
| Vaccine | Price |
|---|---|
| Combined (DHPPi + L) | ≈ €18 – ~€30 |
| Rabies | ≈ €10 – ~€14 |
| Bordetella (kennel cough) | ≈ €26 |
| First year, total | ≈ €50 – ~€80 |
| Annual booster | ≈ €30 – ~€45 |
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Frequently asked
Which vaccines does a dog need
Legally required in Romania: the rabies vaccine , annually, from three months of age. Medically recommended: the combined DHPPi + Leptospirosis vaccine (distemper, infectious hepatitis, parvovirus, parainfluenza) and, optionally, the kennel cough vaccine (B
Which vaccine is mandatory for dogs in Romania?
Only the rabies vaccine, compulsory from three months of age with an annual booster. All other vaccines are medically recommended, not legally imposed.
How many vaccines does a puppy get in the first year?
Typically three combined boosters, the first at 6–8 weeks, plus rabies at three months. Kennel cough vaccine is optional.
How much does complete vaccination cost in the first year?
≈ €50–€80 for the full schedule, plus internal and external deworming.
Do you run a veterinary practice?
Online booking, automated reminders and digital patient records. We start with one service.