Dog vaccines are very important to keep dogs from getting all kinds of diseases, so we can't skip them. Remember that you are responsible for your pet's health! However, sometimes there is a small price to pay for our furry ones to get rid of serious illnesses. These side effects of vaccines are usually not serious and are transient, just like when we get side effects from our medications. Although they're not worrying, it's good to be informed. Don't miss it!
Vaccines for Dogs
There are lots of diseases that our pets can catch, of varying severity. Ailments such as rabies, distemper or leishmaniasis can be a serious problem, even causing the death of the dog. That's why it's vital to avoid them with vaccines.
It doesn't always happen, but sometimes vaccines for dogs (just like people's vaccines and like any other medicine) can cause a mild reaction in the body. Why does it happen? After all, the vaccine consists of introducing a foreign pathogen into the body, which is in fact a weakened or neutralised sample of the pathogen we want to avoid. That is why the organism, surprised, may react strangely, trying to cope with it.
Don't worry! It's not serious and it usually happens in a few hours or a few days. Under no circumstances should adverse effects be a reason to cancel vaccines — they are very important!
Not all dogs are equally prone to post-vaccination symptoms; the most vulnerable are puppies, in addition to neutered dogs and some particular small breeds.
Side Effects of Dog Vaccines
These are the most common side effects of vaccines:
Numbness
It is quite normal for dogs to be drowsy or tired after vaccinations, or even low in energy. Many dogs often fall asleep after vaccinations to recover from stress.
Apathy
If you notice that your dog, after vaccination, is a little listless or withdrawn, it is also normal. Many dogs experience mood swings, and sometimes they even get a little aggressive.
Inflammation
This is perhaps the most common side effect of dog vaccines. Many times the puncture site is inflamed, like a small lump; sometimes it is also red. That’s just because the liquid hasn’t spread well over the body yet. In a matter of hours it will filter itself out and nothing needs to be done.
It can also be an allergic reaction to the needle or alcohol, but this is much less common.
Gastrointestinal Disorders
Stomach aches, vomiting or diarrhea are quite normal after some vaccines, which can be a little aggressive. It is usually accompanied by a loss of appetite and sometimes also a slight inflammation in the gut, perceptible to the touch.
Respiratory Problems
Some vaccines are given intranasally rather than subcutaneously. This type of vaccine can cause sneezing, coughing, and runny nose, sometimes accompanied by a fever — it's like having the flu! If your dog is sick, he will most likely sleep all day and not want to eat.
Anaphylaxis
This side effect is serious and we should pay close attention to the symptoms. These usually appear within a few hours (or even minutes) of vaccination and cause swelling of the muzzle and throat that makes breathing very difficult. Your dog may also have diarrhea, vomiting, weakness, or redness of the skin.
Although severe, anaphylaxis is rare. However, whenever your pet is vaccinated, be sure to stay with them and watch for a few hours after the injection. This way you can detect any anomalies and take them to the vet as soon as possible if necessary.
Log Book for Your Pet Vaccines is a log book that can be used to keep track of your pet’s vaccinations. It contains 100 pages with boxes to fill up for vaccination details such as pet’s name, breed, gender, age, name of the vaccine, date of vaccination, batch number, veterinarian, and notes. It is designed to focus on organizing your pet’s medical history. There is nothing like having your pet’s information in one place, at your fingertips in case of an emergency.
Did you know about the side effects that dog vaccines can have?
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Vaccine Side Effects
Are vaccine side effects normal in dogs?
Yes. Mild side effects after vaccination are common and usually nothing to worry about. Dogs may feel sleepy, show slight swelling at the injection site, or have mild digestive upset. These effects typically go away within a few hours to a couple of days.
When should I call the vet after my dog’s vaccination?
Contact your vet immediately if your dog shows severe or persistent symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the muzzle or throat, ongoing vomiting or diarrhea, high fever, or signs of an allergic reaction. These may indicate a serious problem.
Why do dogs react to vaccines?
Vaccines work by introducing a harmless form of a pathogen, which stimulates the immune system. This can cause mild temporary reactions like tiredness, fever, or localized swelling, as the body builds immunity.
Which dogs are more prone to vaccine side effects?
Puppies, neutered dogs, and some small breeds are more likely to experience mild reactions. However, any dog may have side effects, so monitoring after vaccination is always recommended.
What are the most common side effects of dog vaccines?
The most common include drowsiness, slight apathy, swelling or redness at the injection site, mild stomach upset (vomiting or diarrhea), and temporary sneezing or coughing when nasal vaccines are used.
Can dog vaccines cause serious reactions?
Serious reactions like anaphylaxis are rare but possible. Symptoms include facial swelling, throat swelling, difficulty breathing, severe vomiting or diarrhea, or skin redness. Veterinary attention is needed immediately in these cases.
Should I skip dog vaccines because of side effects?
No. Vaccines are essential to protect against life-threatening diseases such as rabies, distemper, and parvovirus. Mild side effects are temporary, and the protection vaccines provide far outweighs the risks.