How Much Do Rabies Shots Cost for Dogs in 2025?
Your pooch will need this core vaccine from puppyhood through their adult life.
Most states require that dogs get the rabies vaccine. In 2025, the average cost of a rabies shot for dogs ranges from roughly $40 to $75, and your pet will need a series of three initial shots, as well as annual boosters.
The cost depends on several factors, such as which round it is (they’ll need more than one), and where you get it done.
Let’s get into the specifics of this crucial part of your pup’s vaccination schedule.
What is rabies?
Rabies is a fatal and aggressive viral disease that affects the nervous system of mammals, most commonly wild animals—like raccoons and skunks.
This virus can be transferred through a small bite from an infected animal. It may take up to 12 weeks before a dog shows any signs of being infected. Doctors can only treat rabies before these symptoms occur.
After experiencing symptoms, a rabid pup can become belligerent or paralyzed before passing away in as little as two days. Thankfully, rabies is preventable through vaccines.
How does the rabies vaccine work?
Just like other dog vaccinations, the rabies vaccine stimulates the immune system to produce a protective response. This defense guards your dog if they’re ever exposed to the virus.
Besides rabies, essential (or “core”) vaccines typically include DHPP (distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, and parainfluenza) and Leptospirosis. Non-core vaccines, given based on the risk factors of the dog—like their lifestyle—could include Bordetella (kennel cough), Lyme vaccine, and Canine influenza.
How much does a rabies shot for dogs cost?
On average the cost of a rabies shot can range roughly $40 to $75 per dose, low-cost vaccination clinics or animal shelters may offer it at a reduced price, especially when included in a package with other essential pet vaccinations.
Keep in mind that your dog will need multiple rounds of shots, plus boosters.
The cost of the rabies vaccine can vary based on factors, such as:
- Where you take your dog for their shots
- Whether it’s administered at a veterinary clinic or a low-cost vaccination clinic
- If it’s part of a vaccination package
- Which round of vaccines it is—for example the three-year vaccine is often more expensive than the one-year vaccine
How often do dogs need rabies shots?
There is no perfect, one-size-fits-all-paws puppy vaccination schedule. Make these decisions together with your vet.
Lemonade’s favorite vet expert, Dr. Stephanie Liff, recommends that pups receive their first rabies vaccine at or after 12 weeks of age, then annually for adventurous dogs who spend a lot of time in higher risk areas—like the woods—or every 3 years for other dogs.
But this will also depend on the laws in your state, and the specific risk factors of your pooch.
Does pet insurance cover the costs of rabies vaccines?
Yes, pet insurance can include wellness coverage for vaccinations, including the rabies vaccine, when administered by a licensed vet. Coverage specifics depend on your plan selection, deductibles, and co-insurance.
Lemonade’s preventative care options can help cover vaccination costs, including rabies shots. Coverage varies by plan—from basic vaccination coverage to unlimited vaccines in enhanced packages available in select states.
Enhanced preventative care may also help with microchipping, spay/neuter procedures, heartworm prevention, and other routine care, depending on your package.
Our preventative care packages can also help cover booster shots your dog needs throughout their life as part of ongoing rabies prevention.
What are the potential side effects of rabies shots?
While side effects post-rabies shot aren’t super common, some dogs might experience specific symptoms after their vaccination, including:
- A mild fever
- Lethargy
- Reduced appetite
In rare cases, they may have an allergic reaction that requires immediate veterinary attention. Keep in mind that the benefits of protecting your dog from rabies and other infectious diseases like—parvo and distemper—far outweigh the potential risk of side effects.
Before we go…
Investing in pet insurance early in your pup’s life can help provide your fur fam with extensive coverage—from core vaccines, to unforeseen accidents and illnesses as they grow up into adult dogs.
Did you know that at Lemonade Pet you can cover your pooch with dog insurance from the time they’re two months old?
Click below to get your quote started today.
A few quick words, because we <3 our lawyers: This post is general in nature, and any statement in it doesn’t alter the terms, conditions, exclusions, or limitations of policies issued by Lemonade, which differ according to your state of residence. You’re encouraged to discuss your specific circumstances with your own professional advisors. The purpose of this post is merely to provide you with info and insights you can use to make such discussions more productive! Naturally, all comments by, or references to, third parties represent their own views, and Lemonade assumes no responsibility for them. Coverage and discounts may not be available in all states.
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