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Quick Answer
According to the Australian Veterinary Association (AVA), Shiba Inu puppies require their first vaccination at 6-8 weeks, with boosters at 12-16 weeks and 16-20 weeks. Core vaccines in Australia include Canine Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus (C3), and Parainfluenza & Bordetella (C5) for kennel cough protection.
Vaccinations are essential preventive healthcare for Shiba Inus in Australia. The World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) categorizes vaccines as 'core' (essential for all dogs) and 'non-core' (based on lifestyle and location). Australian conditions require specific considerations for Shiba Inus, particularly regarding parvovirus susceptibility and vaccine reactions.
Core Vaccines in Australia (C3/C5)
💉 Canine Distemper
Highly contagious viral disease affecting respiratory, GI, and nervous systems
🦠 Infectious Canine Hepatitis
Caused by canine adenovirus type 1, affecting liver and kidneys
⚠️ Canine Parvovirus
Particularly dangerous for puppies, causes severe vomiting/diarrhea
🤧 Canine Parainfluenza
Respiratory component of kennel cough complex
Highly contagious viral disease affecting respiratory, GI, and nervous systems
🦠 Infectious Canine Hepatitis
Caused by canine adenovirus type 1, affecting liver and kidneys
⚠️ Canine Parvovirus
Particularly dangerous for puppies, causes severe vomiting/diarrhea
🤧 Canine Parainfluenza
Respiratory component of kennel cough complex
Non-Core Vaccines (Based on Risk)
🧫 Bordetella bronchiseptica
Bacterial component of kennel cough (included in C5)
🐕 Leptospirosis
Regional risk, more common in tropical areas
🦠 Coronavirus
Generally not recommended by AVA for routine use
🦟 Heartworm Prevention
Not a vaccine but essential in endemic areas
Bacterial component of kennel cough (included in C5)
🐕 Leptospirosis
Regional risk, more common in tropical areas
🦠 Coronavirus
Generally not recommended by AVA for routine use
🦟 Heartworm Prevention
Not a vaccine but essential in endemic areas
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Parvovirus Alert for Australian Shiba Inus
The University of Melbourne Veterinary Hospital reports Shiba Inus may be more susceptible to parvovirus. Puppies should avoid public areas until 2 weeks after their final puppy vaccination (typically 16-20 weeks). Parvovirus can survive in Australian soil for months to years.
Australian Puppy Vaccination Schedule 2025
The Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) approves all vaccines used in Australia. This schedule follows AVA recommendations:
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Step 6-8
Weeks
- First vaccination: C3 (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus)
- Can be given as early as 6 weeks in high-risk areas
- Temporary protection only - requires boosters
- Begin socialisation in controlled, safe environments
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Step 12-14
Weeks
- Second vaccination: C3 booster
- Often combined with first intestinal worming
- May include first kennel cough vaccine if needed
- Continue safe socialisation
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Step 16-20
Weeks
- Final puppy vaccination: C3 or C5
- C5 adds parainfluenza and bordetella (kennel cough)
- Provides full protection 2 weeks after this dose
- Can now safely visit dog parks and public areas
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Step 12-16
Months
- First adult booster (12 months after final puppy vaccine)
- Vet may recommend 3-year protocol for core vaccines
- Kennel cough vaccine may require annual boosters
- Begin adult vaccination schedule
State-by-State Requirements & Variations
While the AVA provides national guidelines, some Australian states have specific requirements:
- Queensland & Northern Territory: Higher leptospirosis risk in tropical/wet areas
- New South Wales: Some councils require C5 vaccination for dog registration
- Victoria: Boarding kennels typically require current C5 vaccination
- Western Australia: Consider heartworm prevention in northern regions
The RSPCA Australia recommends consulting with your local veterinarian for region-specific advice.
Vaccination Cost Guide Australia 2025
| Type | Best For | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Vaccination Course | Complete 3-shot puppy series | C3 core vaccines |
| C5 Vaccination | Includes kennel cough protection | Added bordetella/parainfluenza |
| Annual Booster | Adult dog annual vaccination | Core vaccine booster |
| Veterinary Health Check | Required with vaccinations | Physical examination |
Shiba Inu-Specific Vaccination Considerations
According to the National Shiba Club of America and Australian breed specialists:
- Vaccine reactions: Some Shiba Inus may experience mild reactions including lethargy, mild fever, or soreness at injection site. Severe reactions are rare but possible.
- Titer testing: For concerned owners, blood titer tests can measure existing immunity before boosters (cost: $100-$150).
- Rabies vaccination: Not required in Australia (rabies-free country) unless exporting overseas.
- Senior dogs: The AVA recommends continuing core vaccines with possible extended intervals (3 years) for healthy senior Shiba Inus.
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Professional Groomer Tip
Keep vaccination records in your Shiba Inu's health folder. Many Australian boarding kennels, groomers, and training facilities require proof of current C5 vaccination. Digital copies on your phone are also recommended.
Vaccination Best Practices
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Do
- •Do follow your veterinarian's recommended schedule
- •Do report any adverse reactions to your vet immediately
- •Do maintain vaccination records for boarding/travel
- •Do discuss titer testing if concerned about over-vaccination
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Don't
- •Don't skip puppy vaccinations due to cost - parvovirus treatment costs $2,000-$5,000
- •Avoid public dog areas until 2 weeks after final puppy vaccine
- •Don't vaccinate sick dogs - wait until healthy
- •Avoid unnecessary non-core vaccines without veterinary recommendation
Legal & Boarding Requirements in Australia
According to Local Government Regulations across Australian states:
- Dog registration: Most councils require proof of vaccination for registration
- Boarding kennels: Nearly all require current C5 vaccination certificate
- Doggy daycare: Typically require C5 vaccination and sometimes additional requirements
- Grooming salons: Many require proof of vaccination
- Training classes: Reputable trainers require vaccination proof
The Australian National Kennel Council (ANKC) recommends keeping vaccinations current for all dogs participating in shows or events.
Vaccine Safety & Adverse Reactions
The APVMA monitors vaccine safety in Australia. According to their 2023 report:
- Mild reactions: 1-2% of dogs experience lethargy, soreness, or mild fever for 24-48 hours
- Moderate reactions: Less than 0.1% experience hives, facial swelling, or vomiting
- Severe reactions: Anaphylaxis occurs in approximately 1 in 10,000 vaccinations
- Vaccine-associated sarcoma: Extremely rare in Australia with modern vaccines
If concerned about reactions, discuss splitting vaccines or pre-medication with your veterinarian.
Comprehensive Shiba Inu Healthcare
Vaccinations are one component of preventive care. Explore our guides on genetic health testing and common health issues for complete Shiba Inu healthcare in Australia.
Veterinary disclaimer: This guide provides general information based on AVA guidelines. Always consult your veterinarian for advice specific to your Shiba Inu.