Natural Immunity in Dogs vs. Vaccines

Vaccinations are among the most significant advancements in modern medicine and have saved the lives of countless animals and humans. While natural immunity can provide powerful protection in some limited circumstances, vaccinations are necessary to prevent some of the most serious diseases in dogs, including rabies. A dog's vaccine requirements vary with age, health, location and risk factors, so consult your vet to determine which vaccinations your dog should get.

  1. Understanding Natural Immunity

    • Natural immunity can refer to several types of immunity. Puppies receive immunity to some illnesses through their mother's milk, and this immunity typically wears off as the puppies are weaned, which is why most puppies begin receiving vaccinations in the first few weeks of life. Immunity also develops after a dog has had a particular illness. All dogs also have immune systems that can fight infections and provide some degree of immunity to disease. However, serious illnesses such as rabies cannot be fought by a dog's natural immune system without the help of vaccine. Natural immunity also comes from memory t-cells. These cells "remember" how to fight the illness, giving the dog immunity. Vaccines provide dogs with these t-cells, allowing dogs to become immune without getting sick.

    Vaccines vs. Immunity

    • Vaccines work by augmenting a dog's natural immunity, providing them with the ability to fight off an infection if they are exposed to it. The immunity that comes from vaccines is generally more effective than natural immunity, and vaccines do not interfere with the natural immunity dogs already have. While some dogs may be born with immunity to some infections, vaccines provide a more reliable source of immunity and thus are a safer choice for ensuring pet health.

    Vaccine Risks

    • Some vets have expressed concern about the risks of over-vaccination of dogs. Excessive dosing of vaccines can lead to a weakened immune system and allergic reactions, so ask your vet about the safest dose of vaccinations for your dogs. Some dogs develop allergies to some vaccinations and may develop the illnesses against which they are vaccinated. If your dog becomes ill after being vaccinated, consult your vet immediately. Your vet might try a vaccine suspended in a different liquid or recommend alternative vaccinations for your dog.

    Disease Risks

    • While there are some minimal risks posed by vaccines, the risk of disease without them is much higher. At a minimum, dogs must be vaccinated against rabies, distemper and parvo. If you live in an area where coronavirus is a problem, your doctor may also recommend this vaccine. Dogs who are boarded or who spend time around unfamiliar or unvaccinated dogs also require bordatella and kennel cough vaccinations.