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My puppy got shots. What are normal side effects and bad reactions?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Female | unspayed | 4 months and 7 days old | 5 lbs

I just did her first shots today we bought the five in one shot and i just wanted to know what would be normal to expect after her getting her shot done today and what might be stuff to watch for if she has a bad reaction or anything like that

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 8th, 2017

Hello and thank you for your post! After a vaccine, we can typically expect the animal to be a little sleepy and potentially sore in the area where the vaccine was administered. In regards to vaccine reactions, you might see a variety of symptoms. Swollen face, hives, itching, breathing problems, vomiting, lethargy, etc. can all be seen with severe reactions. If you are seeing any of these symptoms you should get Daisy in to your veterinarian to be seen and treated immediately as the reaction can escalate quickly. Hope this helps! Please do not hesitate to contact me with questions / concerns

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    Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

    Veterinarian

    Published on December 16th, 2017

    Most dogs don’t have any type of reaction, but some of the most popular vaccine reactions are a swollen face, whelps on the belly, vomiting and diarrhea. If you notice any of these I would call and let your vet know. They will likely be able to give you a Benadryl dose over the phone. If it sounds severe enough they may have you bring her back for a steroid shot. The vaccine may also make her tired for about 12 hours and this is very common and normal. Just let her sleep it off. Occasionally, they may be sore at the injection site for about 24 hours. This is also normal but not common. I hope this answers your question.

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