Vaccines are among the best-value spending you'll do for your dog — a modest cost that prevents diseases which are expensive, and sometimes impossible, to treat. But "how much are dog shots?" doesn't have one answer: it depends on which vaccines, whether it's a puppy series, and where you go. This guide lays out realistic 2026 price ranges for core and non-core vaccines, puppy series totals, and where to find low-cost options.
Core vs. non-core vaccines
Core vaccines are recommended for essentially all dogs and typically include rabies and the combination DHPP shot (distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, parainfluenza). Non-core vaccines are given based on lifestyle and risk — for example Bordetella (kennel cough), leptospirosis, Lyme, and canine influenza. Your vet tailors the plan to your dog's exposure. For timing, see our dog vaccination schedule.
Typical price ranges
- Individual vaccines: commonly around $15–$50 each, with rabies often on the lower end.
- Combination core (DHPP): frequently bundled, offering better value than single shots.
- Non-core add-ons: priced per vaccine on top of the core set.
- Office/exam fee: often added on top at a full-service clinic — see our vet visit cost guide.
Puppy vaccine series cost
Puppies need a series of visits over their first few months, not a single shot. With exam fees included, a full puppy series commonly totals around $100–$350. Low-cost clinics can bring that down considerably. Budget for this as part of your overall first-year puppy cost.
Mild soreness or a quiet day after shots is common. MyFurtopia's free AI Health Scanner & symptom checker helps you tell a normal reaction from one that needs a call to the vet — so you don't pay for an unnecessary recheck.
Check a reaction free →What affects the price?
- Clinic type: private practice vs. nonprofit or mobile vaccine clinic.
- Location: urban areas generally cost more.
- Bundling: combination shots and wellness packages usually cost less than à la carte.
- Add-on services: a full exam, fecal test, or preventives bundled with the visit.
Where to find low-cost vaccines
Many humane societies, nonprofit clinics, pet-store vaccine clinics, and mobile vaccine events offer core vaccines at reduced prices, and some communities run subsidized rabies clinics. Ask your local shelter for referrals. Keeping every dose on schedule also protects you from the far higher cost of treating a preventable disease.
Keep vaccine records in one place
MyFurtopia's AI Pet Health Scanner lets you store vaccination records, set reminders, and check post-vaccine symptoms — so you always know what's due and whether a reaction needs a vet. It's free to try.
Download the MyFurtopia AppFrequently asked questions
How much do dog vaccinations cost?
Individual vaccines commonly cost around $15–$50 each, with rabies often lower. Combination core shots are usually bundled, and an office fee may be added. Prices vary by clinic and location.
How much is a full puppy vaccine series?
A complete series spans several visits and, with exam fees, commonly totals around $100–$350. Low-cost clinics can reduce this significantly.
Where can I get low-cost dog vaccines?
Humane societies, nonprofit clinics, pet-store vaccine clinics and mobile events often offer core vaccines at reduced prices. Ask your local shelter for referrals.
These figures are broad estimates for general budgeting only and are not veterinary or financial advice. Actual costs vary significantly by location and clinic. Your vet decides which vaccines your dog needs.