Risks of Over-Vaccination in Dogs and my advised Vaccine Schedule

As a former holistic veterinarian, I’ve seen firsthand how over-vaccination can lead to chronic health issues in our pets, from allergies and immune disorders in our dogs, to even cancer. While vaccines have an important role in protecting our furry family members from serious diseases, there’s growing evidence that less can sometimes be more. Here’s what every dog parent needs to know:

1. Too Many, Too Often

Did you know your dog could be getting 6–7 vaccines per year if they’re receiving “non-core” vaccines along with routine boosters? This practice not only stresses their immune system but also increases the risk of vaccine-related side effects.

2. Are All Vaccines Effective?

Not all vaccines provide strong or lasting protection. For example:

• Lyme Disease Vaccine: Its effectiveness is questionable, especially in areas with low Lyme disease risk.

• Leptospirosis Vaccine: It need to be given annually, yet it has the highest incidence of side effects, and it may NOT be protective as there are over 100 strains of Lepto, and the vaccine contains only 4-5.

3. Long-Lasting Immunity Is Real

Studies show that many core vaccines last far longer than previously thought. For example:

• The Canine Parvovirus Vaccine has been shown to protect dogs for up to 7 years – yet it’s often still administered every 3 years. It may even confer lifelong immunity in many dogs.

So, why overdo it when your pet’s immunity is already strong?

4. One Size Does NOT Fit All

Here’s something to think about:

• A 150 lb. Great Dane and a 5 lb. Chihuahua receive the same vaccine dose.

• Smaller dogs often experience more severe side effects – likely due to their size in proportion to the vaccine volume.

Isn’t it time we considered a more tailored approach?

5. Real Risks of Vaccine Side Effects

Vaccine reactions are less rare than you think, regardless what most veterinarians, and Google/ChatGPT will say. Why do you think that the incidence of cancer in our dogs is rising?

Acute vaccine reactions

• Discomfort and swelling at the vaccination site

• Mild fever

• Decreased appetite and activity

• Vomiting or diarrhea

• Hives

• Swelling of the muzzle, face, neck or eyes

• breathing distress

• Collapse

Long term and severe reactions

• Immunosuppression

• Behavioral changes

• Weight loss (cachexia)

• Lameness, immune polyarthritis

• Atopy (environmental allergy)

• Uveitis (eye disease)

• Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia (AIHA)

• Thyroiditis (the immune system attacks the thyroid gland)

• Glomerulonephritis (kidney disease)

• Myocarditis (heart disease)

• Post-vaccinal encephalitis or polyneuritis

• Seizures

What’s the Solution?

I recommend a minimal vaccination approach focused on these principles:

• Administer only core vaccines (like rabies and parvovirus) when necessary.

• Space out vaccines to reduce stress on your dog’s immune system.

• Discuss titer testing with your vet to measure your dog’s immunity levels before giving boosters.

My Recommended Vaccination Strategy

• Core Vaccines for Puppies:

  • Canine Distemper Virus

  • Parvovirus

  • Rabies Virus (if required)

• Puppy Vaccination Schedule:

  • 8 weeks: Distemper & Parvovirus

  • 12 weeks: Booster for Distemper & Parvovirus

  • 6 months: Rabies vaccine (if required)

• After the First Year:

  • One additional booster for each core vaccine, or titer test first.

• For Adult Dogs:

  • These core vaccinations often provide long-term immunity

  • Frequent boosters may not be necessary

Your dog’s health isn’t about checking boxes – it’s about what’s best for them.