Welcoming a lively and energetic dog into your family is an exciting event. Protecting its health and allowing it to happily explore the world is every owner’s mission. Among the many preventive measures, vaccination is undoubtedly the most crucial and cost-effective “first line of defense”. This guide will provide you with a comprehensive introduction to the types of dog vaccines, their vaccination schedules, and related precautions in Hong Kong, helping you easily grasp the key knowledge to protect your dog’s health.

Why Must Dogs Be Vaccinated? 

Vaccinating your dog is not just about protecting the individual; it’s also a responsible act for the entire pet community.

Preventing Fatal Infectious Diseases 

Diseases like Canine Distemper and Parvovirus are extremely dangerous for unvaccinated puppies. The mortality rate is very high once infected. Vaccines can effectively stimulate the dog’s immune system and build a solid protective barrier for them.

Complying with Hong Kong Laws and Licensing Requirements 

According to the Rabies Regulation (Cap. 139) of Hong Kong law, all dogs over 5 months old must be vaccinated against rabies, microchipped, and licensed. This is a legal responsibility for every dog owner.

Safety Guarantee for Social Activities 

Whether playing at a dog park, getting grooming services, or staying at a pet hotel, many places require dogs to show a valid vaccination certificate. This ensures that all dogs participating in activities are socializing in a safe environment.

A Comprehensive Look at Dog Vaccine Types: Core vs. Non-Core 

Similar to cat vaccines, dog vaccines are also divided into two major categories: core and non-core.

Core Vaccines: The Cornerstone of Every Dog’s Health 

Core vaccines prevent a variety of serious, fatal, and widespread diseases. They are the basic vaccines that all dogs should receive.

DHPPiL Vaccine Combo Breakdown:

  • D (Distemper): A highly contagious viral disease that attacks a dog’s respiratory, digestive, and nervous systems.
  • H (Hepatitis): Caused by Canine Adenovirus Type 1, it can lead to severe liver damage.
  • P (Parvovirus): Extremely lethal to puppies, it can cause severe bloody gastroenteritis.
  • Pi (Parainfluenza): One of the viruses that causes “kennel cough”.
  • L (Leptospirosis): A disease caused by bacteria that can be transmitted through contact with contaminated water or soil. In severe cases, it can cause kidney and liver failure and is a zoonotic disease.

Non-Core Vaccines: Based on Lifestyle 

A veterinarian will recommend whether a dog needs non-core vaccines based on its lifestyle, such as whether it has frequent contact with other dogs or goes to country parks.

  • Bordetella (Kennel Cough) Vaccine: Kennel cough is a highly contagious upper respiratory disease. Although generally not fatal, it can cause a persistent cough that makes the dog very uncomfortable. If your dog frequently needs to be boarded, attends doggy parties, or goes to dog parks or other high-density places, this vaccine is highly recommended (usually available as oral, nasal drops, or injection).

Hong Kong Dog Vaccination Schedule

Puppy Vaccination Plan

  • 1st Shot: The first dose of the DHPPiL vaccine is given to puppies at 8 weeks of age.
  • 2nd Shot: The second dose of the DHPPiL vaccine is given at 12 weeks of age.
  • 3rd Shot: The third dose of the DHPPiL vaccine is given at 16 weeks of age, completing the basic immunization process.

Adult Dog Annual Booster Shots 

After the puppy vaccination series is completed, a booster shot is recommended one year later. After that, a veterinarian will recommend a core vaccine booster shot every one to three years, based on the dog’s health and risk assessment.

Rabies Vaccine Legal Requirements

  • First Vaccination: When a dog turns 5 months old, it must receive its first rabies vaccine and get a dog license.
  • Regular Renewal: After that, a booster shot must be given every three years, and the license must be renewed, according to the expiration date on the license.

What to Know Before and After Your Dog’s Shot

Health Assessment Before Vaccination 

Before any vaccine is administered, our veterinarians will conduct a comprehensive physical exam for the dog. A healthy body ensures the vaccine can have its maximum effect. If the dog has any discomfort, such as diarrhea, vomiting, or fever, you should wait until it has recovered before scheduling the vaccination.

Common Reactions and Care After Vaccination 

Just like humans, dogs may have mild reactions after vaccination, which usually disappear within 1 to 2 days:

  • Drowsiness, slightly low energy 
  • Soreness or mild swelling at the injection site 
  • Slightly decreased appetite 
  • Mild fever 

During this time, let the dog rest and avoid strenuous exercise. If a severe allergic reaction occurs, such as facial swelling, difficulty breathing, hives, or persistent vomiting, you must seek immediate veterinary help.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a “Titer Test”? Does my dog need one?
A1: A titer test checks the dog’s antibody levels for specific diseases (such as canine distemper and parvovirus) by taking a blood sample. If the antibody level is sufficient, you may be able to delay the booster shot. This is especially useful for dogs with a history of vaccine allergies or immune system diseases. You can discuss with a veterinarian whether this is a suitable option for your dog.

Q2: If my dog is a small or toy breed, will the vaccine dosage be different?
A2: No. The standard vaccine dosage is the same regardless of the dog’s size. This is the minimum dose needed to effectively stimulate the immune system to produce enough antibodies, and a smaller dose would affect the vaccine’s effectiveness.

Q3: What should I do if I adopt an adult dog and don’t know its vaccination history?
A3: The safest approach is to assume it has never been vaccinated and start a complete vaccination series (including the initial shots and boosters) for it. Alternatively, you can choose to have a titer test done first to assess its immune status.

Q4: Besides vaccination, what else can I do to prevent my dog from getting sick?
A4: Vaccination is core, but comprehensive prevention also includes: regular deworming (heartworm, intestinal parasites) and prevention of external parasites (fleas, ticks), providing a balanced and nutritious diet, maintaining a moderate amount of exercise and weight management, and having a detailed physical exam once a year.

Act Now to Take the First Step in Protecting Your Dog’s Health 

Cityvet is committed to providing outstanding comprehensive veterinary medical services, upholding the core values of “professionalism, care, and trust.” We aim to offer reasonably priced services, utilize advanced equipment, and provide detailed explanations of various treatment methods to owners, ensuring comprehensive medical care for every pet.

To book a dog vaccination appointment, please call the Tsuen Wan clinic at 2623 5500 or the Yuen Long clinic at 2477 9990. Addresses: G/F, 186 Sha Tsui Road, Tsuen Wan / G/F, Fuk Shun Building, 25 Ping Wai Street, Yuen Long.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information only and is not a substitute for professional medical diagnosis. If you have any concerns, please schedule a veterinary appointment as soon as possible.