Whether you're adopting a puppy from a Calgary rescue or bringing one home from a breeder, understanding the vaccination schedule is essential. This guide covers every vaccine your puppy needs in Alberta, when they need it, and how much it costs at Calgary clinics.
If you're adopting a puppy from a Calgary rescue, the good news is that most or all core vaccinations are included in your adoption fee.
Core vs Non-Core Vaccines in Canada
Core Vaccines (Recommended for All Dogs)
- DHPP (DA2PP) — Protects against distemper, adenovirus (hepatitis), parvovirus, and parainfluenza. Given as a series of 3–4 shots.
- Rabies — Legally required in Alberta. Fatal and transmissible to humans. One dose at 12–16 weeks, then boosters every 1–3 years.
Non-Core Vaccines (Based on Lifestyle)
- Bordetella — Kennel cough. Required by most daycares, groomers, and boarding facilities in Calgary.
- Leptospirosis — Bacterial infection from standing water. Recommended if your dog visits off-leash parks or rivers.
- Lyme Disease — Tick-borne. Less common in Alberta but increasing. Ask your vet about risk level.
- Canine Influenza — Dog flu. Sometimes required for boarding. Talk to your vet.
Puppy Vaccination Timeline
| Age | Vaccine | Type | Est. Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6–8 weeks | DHPP (1st dose) | Core | $75–$100 |
| 10–12 weeks | DHPP (2nd dose) | Core | $75–$100 |
| 10–12 weeks | Bordetella (1st dose) | Non-Core | $25–$45 |
| 12–16 weeks | DHPP (3rd dose) | Core | $75–$100 |
| 12–16 weeks | Rabies (1st dose) | Core | $30–$50 |
| 12–16 weeks | Leptospirosis (optional) | Non-Core | $20–$35 |
| 16+ weeks | DHPP (4th dose — if started early) | Core | $75–$100 |
| Total (core only) | $255–$400 | ||
Costs are estimates based on Calgary veterinary clinics in 2026. Exam fees ($60–$90 per visit) may be additional. Low-cost vet clinics may charge less.
What Vaccines Do Rescue Dogs Already Have?
One of the biggest financial advantages of adopting vs buying a dog is that vaccinations are included in the adoption fee. Here's what Calgary rescues typically provide:
Adult Dogs (1+ years)
- ✓ DHPP (fully vaccinated)
- ✓ Rabies
- ✓ Bordetella (usually)
- ✓ Deworming
- ✓ Spay/neuter
- ✓ Microchip
Puppies (under 1 year)
- ✓ Age-appropriate DHPP doses
- ✓ Rabies (if old enough)
- ✓ Deworming
- ✓ Microchip
- ● May need remaining boosters
- ● Spay/neuter at appropriate age
Ask the rescue for your dog's vaccination record at adoption. This document tells your vet exactly which vaccines have been given and when boosters are due.
Adult Dog Booster Schedule
After the puppy series is complete, your dog needs periodic boosters to maintain immunity:
| Vaccine | Booster Frequency | Est. Cost |
|---|---|---|
| DHPP | Every 3 years (after initial 1-year booster) | $30–$50 |
| Rabies | Every 1–3 years (depends on product) | $30–$50 |
| Bordetella | Annually (required by most boarding/daycare) | $25–$45 |
| Leptospirosis | Annually (if at risk) | $20–$35 |
Wondering if pet insurance covers vaccines? Most standard plans don't, but wellness add-ons do. See our pet insurance guide for details.
Important Tips for Calgary Puppy Owners
Don't Skip the Parvo Series
Parvovirus is deadly and highly contagious. Until your puppy has had all 3–4 DHPP doses, avoid dog parks, pet stores, and areas where unvaccinated dogs may have been. Carry your puppy instead of letting them walk in public areas.
Keep Records for Calgary Dog Licensing
Calgary's pet licensing bylaw requires all dogs to be licensed. Keep your vaccination records accessible for licensing and any boarding or daycare registrations.
Save Money on Vaccines
Calgary has several low-cost vet clinics that offer reduced-price vaccination packages. Some shelters also host periodic low-cost vaccine clinics open to the public.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do puppy vaccinations cost in Calgary?
A full puppy vaccine series in Calgary typically costs $250 to $400 total for core vaccines. Individual booster visits run $75 to $120 each (including exam fee). Adopting from a rescue includes most or all vaccinations in the $200–$500 adoption fee.
What vaccines are required by law in Alberta?
Rabies is the only vaccine legally required in Alberta. However, veterinarians strongly recommend the full core vaccine protocol (DHPP + rabies) for every dog. Bordetella is required by most Calgary daycares and boarding facilities.
Do rescue dogs come vaccinated?
Yes. All reputable Calgary rescue organizations include age-appropriate vaccinations in the adoption fee. Adult dogs are typically fully vaccinated. Puppies may need remaining boosters depending on their age at adoption.
Can my puppy go outside before all vaccines are done?
Your puppy can go into your own yard and to controlled environments. Avoid dog parks, pet stores, and public areas with heavy dog traffic until 1–2 weeks after the final DHPP booster (around 16–18 weeks). Socialization with known, vaccinated dogs in clean environments is still important during this period.
Thinking About Adopting a Puppy?
Rescue puppies come with core vaccines included in the adoption fee. Browse available puppies from 13+ Calgary rescues.