Puppy Vaccination Schedule in the UAE: What Jabs, When, and Why It Matters

Puppies are born with some maternal antibodies from their mother, but these fade. The vaccine series is timed to provide protection as that maternal immunity wanes — not too early (when maternal antibodies would block the vaccine from working) and not too late (leaving a window of vulnerability).

The tricky part is that we cannot know exactly when each individual puppy's maternal immunity drops. That is why puppies receive a series of injections spaced a few weeks apart, rather than a single shot. Each dose catches the puppy at the right moment.

Until the series is complete, parvovirus in particular is a serious risk. It spreads in the environment, survives for months in Dubai's heat, and can be fatal in unvaccinated puppies. Keep your puppy away from unknown dogs and high-traffic areas until the full course is done.

The DHPPi covers four diseases in one injection: Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, and Parainfluenza. All four are relevant in the UAE — parvovirus and distemper especially. This is given three times in the puppy series.

Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease spread through contaminated water and rodent urine. Dogs in Dubai that visit parks, swim, or spend time outdoors are at real risk. We recommend it as part of the standard course, combined with the DHPPi injection.

Rabies is a legal requirement in the UAE for all dogs and is essential for Dubai Municipality registration. It is given once at 16 weeks and then renewed annually (the UAE requires annual documentation regardless of the vaccine's label duration). Without a valid rabies certificate, your dog cannot be boarded, licensed, or exported.

8 weeks: First DHPPi + Leptospirosis. This is the earliest we can start. If your puppy was vaccinated before coming to you (by a breeder or rescue), bring those records — we will work out where you are in the series.

12 weeks: Second DHPPi + Leptospirosis. The gap between doses must be at least 3–4 weeks. Do not shorten it.

16 weeks: Third DHPPi + Leptospirosis + Rabies. This is the first time we give rabies, as it must follow the DHPPi primary course. After this final dose, wait at least one week before allowing contact with unknown dogs at parks.

12–15 months: First adult booster. Timing this correctly is important — it sets the rhythm for your dog's annual booster cycle for life. After this, annual boosters cover DHPPi, Leptospirosis, and Rabies.

Kennel cough is not in the core series but we strongly recommend it for any puppy that will go to puppy classes, dog parks, groomers, or boarding. It is required by virtually all reputable boarding facilities in Dubai.

The Bordetella vaccine is given as a single intranasal dose and takes effect within a week. It can be given from 3–4 weeks before first exposure — so if you are planning puppy class or a boarding stay, book it in well ahead.

Kennel cough is not dangerous for healthy adult dogs but causes significant discomfort: a harsh, persistent cough that lasts 2–3 weeks. In young puppies, it can be more serious.

All dogs in Dubai must be registered with Dubai Municipality annually. The requirements are: a valid ISO-compliant microchip (must be in place before rabies vaccination), current rabies vaccination, and a health certificate from an approved clinic.

Mike's Vet is an approved clinic and can complete registration documentation at your puppy's annual booster appointment. Bring your puppy's full vaccination record.

Our Dog Starter Bundle (AED 550) covers the full primary course including all three DHPPi injections, Leptospirosis, and Rabies — with consultations included at each visit. It is the most cost-effective way to complete your puppy's primary series.