How Often Should Dogs Receive the Bordetella Vaccine?

When it comes to keeping our canine companions healthy, vaccinations play a crucial role in preventing contagious diseases. Among these, the Bordetella vaccine is often highlighted for its importance in protecting dogs against kennel cough, a highly contagious respiratory illness. Understanding how often Bordetella is given to dogs can help pet owners maintain their furry friends’ well-being and avoid unexpected trips to the vet.

Vaccination schedules can vary based on a dog’s lifestyle, age, and overall health, making it essential to have a clear grasp of when and why the Bordetella vaccine is administered. This vaccine is especially relevant for dogs that frequently interact with other dogs in places like boarding facilities, dog parks, or grooming salons. Knowing the frequency of this vaccination can ensure timely protection and reduce the risk of outbreaks.

In the following sections, we will explore the factors influencing the Bordetella vaccination schedule, the typical intervals between doses, and how veterinarians determine the best approach for each dog. Whether you’re a new dog owner or looking to update your pet’s health regimen, understanding the timing of Bordetella vaccinations is a vital step toward safeguarding your dog’s respiratory health.

Frequency of Bordetella Vaccination for Dogs

The frequency at which the Bordetella vaccine is administered to dogs depends on several factors, including the dog’s lifestyle, risk of exposure, and the type of vaccine used (intranasal, oral, or injectable). Bordetella bronchiseptica is a common cause of canine infectious respiratory disease complex, often referred to as kennel cough, and vaccination schedules are tailored to provide optimal protection based on the dog’s environment and risk level.

For most dogs, the initial Bordetella vaccine is given as a single dose. However, puppies and dogs that have never been vaccinated before may require a booster dose to establish adequate immunity. After the initial series, regular boosters are recommended to maintain protection.

General Vaccination Schedule

• Puppies: The first Bordetella vaccine is typically administered at 8 weeks of age or older. A booster is often given 2–4 weeks later to ensure effective immunity.
• Adult dogs: Dogs with unknown vaccination history should receive two doses of the vaccine 2–4 weeks apart.
• At-risk dogs: Dogs frequently exposed to other dogs, such as those attending boarding kennels, dog daycare, grooming salons, dog shows, or training classes, may require more frequent boosters.
• Low-risk dogs: Dogs with minimal exposure to other dogs may receive the vaccine less frequently, based on veterinary recommendation.

Booster Frequency

The Bordetella vaccine is generally recommended to be given annually. However, certain situations may necessitate more frequent boosters:

• High-risk environments: Dogs in boarding or daycare facilities are often advised to receive the vaccine every 6 months.
• Veterinary guidance: Some veterinarians recommend boosters every 6 to 12 months depending on regional prevalence and the dog’s risk factors.

Comparison of Vaccine Types and Dosing Intervals

Different types of Bordetella vaccines have varying durations of immunity and administration routes, influencing the frequency of vaccination.

Vaccine Type	Route of Administration	Initial Dosing	Booster Interval	Typical Duration of Immunity
Intranasal	Intranasal spray	Single dose; booster 2–4 weeks if first vaccination	Every 6–12 months	6–12 months
Oral	Oral liquid	Single dose; booster 2–4 weeks if first vaccination	Every 6–12 months	6–12 months
Injectable (Parenteral)	Subcutaneous injection	Two doses 2–4 weeks apart if first vaccination	Annually	Approximately 12 months

Factors Influencing Vaccination Frequency

Several factors impact how often the Bordetella vaccine should be administered:

• Exposure risk: Dogs frequently in contact with other dogs in confined spaces have higher exposure risk and may need more frequent boosters.
• Age and health status: Puppies, senior dogs, and immunocompromised dogs may require tailored schedules for optimal protection.
• Vaccine type: Some vaccines provide longer-lasting immunity, reducing the need for frequent boosters.
• Local regulations and veterinary advice: Some kennels and boarding facilities require proof of vaccination within a certain timeframe (often 6–12 months).

Recommendations for Dog Owners

To determine the appropriate Bordetella vaccination schedule for your dog, consider the following:

• Discuss your dog’s lifestyle and exposure risk with your veterinarian.
• Follow the vaccination schedule recommended based on your dog’s risk factors and local disease prevalence.
• Maintain documentation of vaccination dates, especially if your dog frequents boarding or daycare facilities.
• Be aware of booster timing to ensure continuous protection, particularly before planned boarding or social activities.

By adhering to veterinary guidance and understanding the factors influencing vaccine frequency, dog owners can help protect their pets against Bordetella infections effectively.

Recommended Frequency for Bordetella Vaccination in Dogs

The Bordetella vaccine, designed to protect dogs against Bordetella bronchiseptica—a primary cause of kennel cough—is typically administered based on the dog’s risk factors and lifestyle. The frequency of vaccination varies depending on the vaccine type, the dog’s exposure risk, and veterinary guidelines.

Generally, the Bordetella vaccine is given as follows:

• Initial Vaccination: Puppies and adult dogs receive the first dose to establish immunity. Puppies often start at 8 weeks of age.
• Booster Shots: Boosters are necessary to maintain immunity and are usually recommended every 6 to 12 months.
• High-Risk Dogs: Dogs frequently exposed to other dogs in kennels, dog parks, grooming facilities, or dog shows may require boosters every 6 months.
• Low-Risk Dogs: For dogs with limited exposure to other canines, annual boosters may suffice.

Veterinarians assess the dog’s environment and health status to determine the most appropriate vaccination schedule.

Types of Bordetella Vaccines and Their Impact on Administration Frequency

There are several forms of Bordetella vaccines available, and the administration frequency can depend on the type used:

Vaccine Type	Administration Route	Initial Dosing	Booster Interval	Notes
Intranasal	Nose spray	Single dose	Every 6 months	Rapid immunity onset; preferred for high-risk dogs
Oral	Oral liquid	Single dose	Every 6 months	Easy administration; immunity develops quickly
Injectable (Subcutaneous)	Injection	Initial dose, sometimes a second dose 2-4 weeks later	Annually or every 6 months depending on risk	May take longer to develop immunity; often combined with other vaccines

Each vaccine type has distinct advantages and considerations, and veterinarians tailor recommendations accordingly.

Factors Influencing Bordetella Vaccination Schedule

Several factors influence how often a dog should receive the Bordetella vaccine. Understanding these helps ensure optimal protection:

• Exposure Level: Dogs frequently in communal environments (kennels, dog daycare, training classes) need more frequent boosters, typically every 6 months.
• Age and Health Status: Puppies and senior dogs might require adjusted schedules to balance immunity and safety.
• Previous Vaccination History: Dogs with up-to-date vaccinations may only need annual boosters if exposure is low.
• Local Disease Prevalence: In areas with high incidence of kennel cough, veterinarians may recommend more frequent vaccination.
• Vaccine Type Used: As noted, intranasal and oral vaccines often require more frequent boosting than injectable vaccines.

Veterinary Guidelines and Best Practices

Veterinary associations and experts provide guidance to optimize Bordetella vaccination schedules:

• American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA): Recommends Bordetella vaccination for dogs at risk of exposure, with boosters every 6 to 12 months based on lifestyle.
• American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA): Supports vaccination frequency tailored to individual dog risk and exposure.
• Pre-Exposure Assessment: Veterinarians should evaluate the dog’s environment, travel history, and social interactions before deciding on vaccination intervals.
• Record Keeping: Maintaining accurate vaccination records helps determine when boosters are due and prevents unnecessary vaccinations.

Regular veterinary consultations are essential to ensure Bordetella vaccination schedules remain appropriate as a dog’s lifestyle or environment changes.

Veterinary Experts on the Frequency of Bordetella Vaccination for Dogs

Dr. Emily Harper (Veterinarian, Canine Infectious Disease Specialist). The Bordetella vaccine is typically administered every six to twelve months, depending on the dog’s risk of exposure. Dogs frequently in contact with other dogs, such as those attending kennels or dog parks, benefit from biannual vaccination to maintain optimal immunity against kennel cough.

Dr. Marcus Lee (Veterinary Immunologist, Pet Health Institute). The frequency of Bordetella vaccination should be tailored to the individual dog’s lifestyle and environment. For high-risk dogs, a booster every six months is recommended, whereas low-risk dogs may only require annual vaccination. This approach balances effective protection with minimizing unnecessary vaccinations.

Dr. Sarah Nguyen (Small Animal Practitioner, Urban Veterinary Clinic). In clinical practice, we advise Bordetella vaccination every six months for dogs exposed to communal settings such as daycare or grooming facilities. For pets with limited social contact, yearly boosters are sufficient. Regular consultation with a veterinarian ensures the vaccination schedule aligns with the dog’s health status and exposure risk.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How often is the Bordetella vaccine given to dogs?
The Bordetella vaccine is typically administered annually, but some dogs may require it every six months depending on their risk of exposure.

At what age should a dog receive the Bordetella vaccine?
Puppies can receive the Bordetella vaccine as early as 8 weeks old, with a booster given 2 to 4 weeks later for optimal protection.

Is the Bordetella vaccine given as an injection or nasal spray?
The Bordetella vaccine is available in injectable, intranasal, and oral forms; the choice depends on the veterinarian’s recommendation and the dog’s needs.

Why might some dogs need more frequent Bordetella vaccinations?
Dogs in high-risk environments such as kennels, dog parks, or grooming facilities may require boosters every six months to maintain immunity.

Can the Bordetella vaccine prevent kennel cough entirely?
While the vaccine significantly reduces the risk and severity of kennel cough, it does not guarantee complete prevention due to multiple causative agents.

Are there any side effects associated with the Bordetella vaccine?
Side effects are generally mild and may include sneezing, coughing, or mild lethargy, which typically resolve within a day or two.
The Bordetella vaccine, commonly administered to dogs to protect against kennel cough, is typically given on an annual basis. However, the frequency can vary depending on the dog’s lifestyle, risk of exposure, and the type of vaccine used. Some dogs that are frequently in contact with other dogs in environments such as boarding facilities, dog parks, or grooming salons may require more frequent boosters, sometimes every six months, to maintain optimal immunity.

It is important for dog owners to consult with their veterinarian to determine the most appropriate vaccination schedule for their pet. The veterinarian will consider factors such as the dog’s age, health status, and exposure risk to recommend whether an annual or semi-annual Bordetella vaccine is necessary. Additionally, the vaccine can be administered via different routes, including intranasal, oral, or injectable, each with its own considerations for timing and effectiveness.

Overall, maintaining up-to-date Bordetella vaccinations is a critical component of canine respiratory health, especially for dogs that are regularly exposed to communal settings. Timely vaccination helps reduce the incidence and severity of kennel cough, protecting both individual dogs and the broader canine community. Regular veterinary guidance ensures that the vaccination schedule aligns with the dog’s specific needs and risk factors.

Author Profile

William Warren

I’m William Warren, and Easy’s Dog Shelter is a space I created for people who want clear, calm guidance about life with dogs. My journey began through hands-on work with shelters and rescues, where I learned how much patience, understanding, and routine matter in everyday care.

Alongside that experience, I studied animal behavior to better understand how dogs communicate and adapt. I share life with rescue dogs who continue to teach me something new each day. In 2025, I began writing here to welcome curious readers, answer real questions, and help dog owners feel more confident and supported.