Puppy vaccinations in Australia: a general schedule overview
Updated 2026-10-16. General information, not veterinary advice.
Ask your vet. This guide is general information, not veterinary advice. It does not diagnose or give doses. Your vet knows your dog and your area, so ask them about anything specific.
Vaccination is one of the first jobs after bringing a puppy home. This page gives a general overview only. Your vet will set the actual plan, because timing and products depend on your puppy, your area and your lifestyle.
What the RSPCA says in general
According to the RSPCA Knowledgebase:
- The core vaccines for dogs protect against canine distemper virus, canine adenovirus and canine parvovirus. In Australia they are combined in a single vaccine commonly known as the C3.
- Current guidelines recommend a puppy’s first core vaccine at 6 to 8 weeks of age, with boosters every 2 to 4 weeks until at least 16 weeks of age.
- The last puppy dose is recommended at 16 weeks or older because antibodies from the mother can interfere with how well a vaccine works, and how long they last differs between puppies.
- A booster at around 6 months of age is recommended.
C3 and C5
Parainfluenza and Bordetella bronchiseptica protection is classed as non-core by the RSPCA. It is often recommended for dogs who regularly meet other dogs, for example at parks, puppy preschool, training classes, day care or boarding. When combined with the core vaccines it is commonly called the C5. Your vet may give it as a nose drop or an injection, and will tell you which suits your puppy.
Before your puppy is fully vaccinated
The RSPCA advises that puppies should complete their primary course of core vaccinations before visiting public places such as parks, to reduce the risk of contact with infectious disease. Your vet can tell you when your puppy is protected. In the meantime, ask about safe ways to start socialising, covered in our puppy socialisation guide, and check that any puppy school has a clear vaccination policy.
What to take to the vet
- Any vaccination or health record from the breeder or rescue.
- Your puppy’s microchip number (see registration and microchipping).
- A list of questions. Our vet visit guide can help.
- Treats, so the clinic becomes a happy place. Reward-based handling makes later visits easier.
Questions to ask your vet
- When should the next dose be, and when is the course complete?
- Does my puppy need the C3 or the C5, and why?
- When is it safe for my puppy to go to parks, beaches and puppy classes?
- What parasite prevention suits my area? See flea, tick and worm prevention.
- When is the next booster due, and when should we talk about desexing?
Vaccination costs vary by clinic, so ask for a quote when you book. Pet insurance usually does not cover routine vaccination, but check the policy wording.
Product types worth comparing
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- Printable health record: Keep the vaccination certificate, microchip number and vet details together in one folder or phone album.
Check current price, size guides and availability with Australian pet retailers such as Petbarn, Pet Circle or Petstock.
FAQs
What is the C3 vaccine?
The RSPCA describes the core vaccines for dogs in Australia as those against canine distemper virus, canine adenovirus and canine parvovirus, usually combined in one vaccine commonly called the C3.
What is the C5 vaccine?
The C5 is the C3 plus protection against canine parainfluenza virus and Bordetella bronchiseptica, which contribute to kennel cough. The RSPCA lists these as non-core, so whether your puppy needs them is a decision for you and your vet.
When can my puppy go to the park?
Ask your vet. The RSPCA advises puppies should complete their primary course of core vaccinations before going to public places, and your vet can tell you when that is for your puppy.
My breeder gave the first vaccine. Do I start again?
Not necessarily. Take your puppy's vaccination record to your vet, who will plan the remaining doses.