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Vaccinations, Titre Testing & Natural Immunity: What Every Dog Owner Should Know

dog vaccination

Vaccination is one of those topics that can stir up a lot of feelings especially for loving dog owners who just want to do the right thing. Some people vaccinate every year, some follow breeder or vet recommendations without question, and others avoid vaccines altogether.


So, what’s the right thing to do?


The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. What matters most is understanding your options so you can make informed, conscious choices that support your dog’s long-term health.


This blog isn’t about telling you what you should do. It’s about giving you the information you need to feel confident asking questions and advocating for your dog.

Core vs. Non-Core Vaccines: What’s the Difference?


Not all vaccines are created equal.


  • Core vaccines protect against serious, potentially life-threatening diseases that most dogs are at risk of being exposed to, regardless of lifestyle. These typically include:

    • Parvovirus

    • Distemper

    • Hepatitis (Adenovirus)


These core vaccines are usually grouped together as a C3 vaccine - you may have seen this noted on your dog’s vaccination card.


  • Non-core vaccines are recommended based on lifestyle and risk factors (like boarding, location, or exposure to wildlife). These might include:

    • Kennel Cough (Bordetella & Parainfluenza)

    • Leptospirosis

    • Coronavirus

    • Lyme disease (rare in Australia)


In Australia, these non-core vaccines are often added to the core vaccine to create:

  • C4 – C3 + Parainfluenza

  • C5 – C4 + Bordetella (covers Kennel Cough)

  • C6 – C5 + Coronavirus or Leptospirosis (depends on the brand/product)


💡 Why it matters: Many dogs are routinely given a C5 or C6 each year without any consideration of whether they need the extra components based on their lifestyle or risk.


💭 Before agreeing to a combination vaccine, it’s worth asking your vet:

  • Does my dog actually need all of these?

  • Are these diseases common in my area?

  • Could we space them out or consider titre testing instead?


The key takeaway? Your dog may not need every vaccine, every year.

What Is Titre Testing?


Titre testing is a simple blood test that checks your dog’s current immunity levels for certain diseases (usually the core ones).


If the test shows your dog has strong antibodies, they may not need another booster at that time. This can help reduce unnecessary vaccinations while still keeping your dog protected.


It's especially helpful for:

  • Older dogs

  • Dogs with chronic illness or sensitivities

  • Owners looking for a more tailored approach to health


📍 Important note: Some kennels, groomers, or doggy daycares may still require proof of recent vaccinations regardless of titre results so always check their policies.



The Potential Risks of Over-Vaccinating


While vaccines absolutely save lives and play an essential role in preventing disease, over-vaccinating can carry risks especially if given too frequently or without considering a dog’s individual needs.


Some potential issues to be aware of:

  • Skin irritation or swelling at the injection site

  • Lethargy or loss of appetite

  • Allergic reactions

  • Digestive upset

  • In rare cases, autoimmune reactions


This doesn’t mean vaccines are “bad” just that, like any medical intervention, it’s worth weighing the benefits and risks for your dog.


dog scratching

Flea & Tick Treatments: A Similar Conversation


Vaccines aren’t the only area where pet owners are asking more questions - flea and tick treatments are also under the microscope (and rightly so).


Many flea and tick products are given monthly, and often combine multiple chemical agents in one chew, tablet, or topical treatment. And while they’re effective at prevention, they’re also strong pesticides and that’s where concerns often come in.


Let’s think about it this way...

You wouldn’t treat your child for head lice just in case they might catch it - especially with something chemical. You might take precautions or use natural deterrents, but you wouldn’t apply something harsh to their skin or scalp every month as a routine.

The same logic applies to our dogs.


There’s no one-size-fits-all approach here either. If you live in a paralysis tick area, then the risks of not treating may outweigh the concerns about chemical exposure. But if you’re in a low-risk environment or your dog rarely leaves the house, the approach could be different.


A Quick Note on Combined Treatments

In Australia, most products combine flea and tick protection in one dose, and there isn’t currently a widely available option that separates the two. That means:


  • You might be treating your dog for fleas (which they don’t have) in order to protect against ticks (which they might encounter).

  • Or vice versa.


Again, no judgement here - just an invitation to pause and ask:


✨ What am I treating for?

✨ What is the real risk based on my location, lifestyle, and dog’s health?

✨ Are there natural preventatives or less frequent alternatives that could work for us?


Your vet should be part of this conversation too, especially if your dog has a history of sensitivity or health issues.

Questions to Ask Your Vet


Vets are a vital part of your dog’s healthcare team but that doesn’t mean you can’t ask questions or seek a second opinion.


Here are a few helpful questions to start the conversation:

  • Does my dog need this vaccine based on their lifestyle?

  • Is titre testing an option before revaccinating?

  • Are there alternative schedules that suit my dog better?

  • What side effects should I watch for after this vaccine?

  • What flea/tick preventatives are essential based on our area?


A great vet will welcome your questions and work with you to make decisions that feel right for both you and your dog.

Don’t Ignore Your Gut (Because Your Dog Won’t)


We often forget just how tuned in our dogs are to us. They pick up on our emotions, our energy, and even our hesitation.


If you’re sitting at the vet or holding a product in your hand and something doesn’t feel quite right… pause. That feeling matters.


Dogs live in the present. They don’t overthink but they do absorb. If you’re feeling anxious, rushed, or unsure, your dog is likely to feel that too.


That doesn’t mean every choice has to be perfect but it does mean your intuition deserves a seat at the table. If something feels off, it’s okay to slow down, ask more questions, and take time to make an informed decision.


You’re not just your dog’s caregiver, you’re their safe place, their advocate, their energetic guide.


Final Thoughts: There’s No One Right Way


Vaccination, parasite prevention, and long-term health care aren’t black-and-white topics. They’re about balance, awareness, and doing what feels right for you and your dog.


If your dog has a compromised immune system, ongoing health issues, or you’re just not sure what’s best, know that you can slow down and ask questions. You don’t have to follow a generic protocol if it doesn’t feel aligned.


Whether you follow the standard schedule, space things out, use titre testing, or explore natural preventatives, the most important thing is that you’re making informed decisions from a place of care and consciousness.


Thanks for reading! I hope this gave you a helpful, judgement-free place to start thinking about your dog’s vaccination and preventative care plan.


And as always…


Throw your dog a treat from us!


Deb & the Busy Pawz Crew xo


P.S. Curious about gentler, more natural alternatives for your dog’s health and wellbeing? I’ll be diving into this more on this week’s podcast episode—covering everything from titre testing to natural tick prevention and the energetic side of immunity.




 
 
 

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