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Is it normal for a puppy to be sore and whine after a booster shot?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Female | unspayed | 2 months and 23 days old | 3.5 lbs

My puppy got her third booster shot today and she whines anytime I touch that side of her body, is this normal?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Rebecca, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 5th, 2018

Hi, thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. If Tika is eating and drinking and acting normally otherwise she is probably just a little sore from her vaccinations. If she is extremely painful, not eating, has vomited then she could be having a more serious vaccine reaction. If she is, then take her to an emergency clinic tonight. Do not give Tika any otc human pain medications. If she is just a bit sore, then wait and call her regular vet in the morning. If she is still painful they may prescribe some medication. Even if she is better, let them know to make a note in her chart, sometimes medication may be given before vaccinations to prevent reaction. I hope Tika is back to normal soon.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Eryn Taormina, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on July 21st, 2018
Hi there. I'm sorry to hear that Bennett is having a little bit of trouble after his vaccines. Dogs can definitely be a little bit sore afterwards, and exhibit the signs you're describing. Dogs can feel warm as well, but the best way to check the actual temperature is with a rectal thermometer. If you feel comfortable, you can pick up a children's rectal thermometer at your local Walmart, CVS, Walgreens, etc., and check. The normal temperature range for a dog is 101F - 102.5F. If it is higher than this, you may want to phone your veterinarian and let them know, and see if they recommend having Bennett come back in for some treatment.
Soreness, maybe skipping a meal or two, and sleeping a lot are usually OK following vaccines. If this persists for longer than 36 hours though, I'd have Bennett re-examined.
Signs of a vaccine reaction that can be serious, and need medical attention right away are swelling of the face, hives on the skin which appear as bumps, trouble breathing, vomiting/diarrhea, and profound lethargy. If any of these issues occur, Bennett should be seen by a veterinarian right away.
I hope you find this answer helpful! Best of luck!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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