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My puppy is shaking and yelping after vaccines. Is this normal?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | neutered | 3 months and 29 days old | 9.7 lbs

my puppy is shaking and keeps yelping. we had a vet appointment today and he for a lepto shot and last distemper. i've never heard him yelp. Just wondering if this is normal behavior for a puppy after getting vaccines?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Christie Long, DVM

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on January 6th, 2017

My suspicion is that this is injection-site pain and not a "true" vaccine reaction, however I do know that dogs (especially small ones) can be pretty painful in the limb they were vaccinated in for up to 36 hours afterwards. I wouldn't call it "normal" but we definitely see it - both of my own small dogs were painful after their last lepto vaccine. Because they can be pretty miserable, I would recommend calling your vet and asking if they might dispense a bit of pain relief - perhaps only 2 - 3 days worth - to make sure Ted is comfortable over the weekend. And if you see other more concerning signs - swelling about the head or face, difficulty breathing, vomiting, collapse - take him right into an emergency facility.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

    Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

    Published on September 21st, 2019

    Hi there! It can be normal for dogs to be sore or uncomfortable for a couple of days after getting vaccinations - just like human kids. That can often manifest as shaking, yelping when touched, or laying around and not wanting to do much, and is not normally cause for concern. Signs of a more serious vaccine reaction would include vomiting, facial swelling, hives, difficulty breathing, or collapse. If you see any of these signs, then I would take her in to see an emergency vet immediately - but serious reactions are rare. If she's just trembling and acting uncomfortable, she should feel better within the next day or two.

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    Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on June 30th, 2017

    Poor Nelson! You should call your vet and give him/her an update. Vaccines can make puppies a little lethargic for 24-48 hours and sometimes they have some pain from the injections. Your vet could prescribe an anti-inflammatory to help relieve the discomfort.

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