What reactions should I watch for after vaccination?
Written by
Hoang Long
Reviewed by
Prof. Henry Webster, Ph.D.Always observe your puppy after vaccination. Your puppy may seem fine, but if you notice any serious reactions, you'll want to be prepared. While most puppies have no severe reactions, knowing the difference between normal and concerning signs is vital. Being prepared helps avoid problems, so it's essential to know the difference between these two states. Start observing your puppy 48 hours post-vaccination.
Normal Responses
- Mild tiredness lasting under 24 hours
- Small swelling under 1cm at injection site
- Slight appetite reduction resolving by next meal
- Temperature below 103°F (39.4°C)
Concerning Symptoms
- Fever exceeding 103°F (39.4°C)
- Vomiting or diarrhea occurring multiple times
- Swelling spreading beyond injection site
- Persistent whining indicating discomfort
Emergency Reactions
- Facial swelling around eyes or muzzle
- Difficulty breathing or sudden collapse
- Hives appearing across the body
- Pale gums indicating circulation issues
Use a digital thermometer to take your puppy's rectal temperature. The normal temperature range for puppies is between 100°F and 102.5°F (37.8°C and 39.2°C), but any temperature above 103°F should be addressed immediately. Toy breeds weighing less than 5 pounds may react more strongly, even if they have a normal temperature. Do your best to keep the puppies warm and hydrated.
Post-vaccination injection site reactions warrant close attention. A typical response is a bump the size of a small pea felt beneath the skin. If it becomes larger than a 25-cent piece or if the area feels hot, notify your veterinarian. A gentle massage can help disperse the vaccine throughout the tissue.
Emergency reactions generally occur within the half-hour to one-hour range. I've had puppies react with such swelling on their faces that they couldn't breathe. Always be receptive to a visit to the vet for a bit after a shot; have an emergency vet number handy; and know the location of your nearest 24-hour animal hospital.
Long-term monitoring consists of assessing for delayed reactions after 48 hours. A few puppies will show mild lameness or stiffness. Larger breed puppies may exhibit such symptoms later. Some Sighthounds can have individual responses to certain vaccines.
Read the full article: Puppy Vaccination Timeline: Complete Guide
