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Vaccine Titer Testing

  • Writer: V DuPree
    V DuPree
  • May 6
  • 3 min read

Updated: Jun 6

Advocating for Your Puppy’s Health: Understanding Vaccine Titer Testing


As a dedicated Great Dane & European Doberman breeder, I know how important it is to provide the very best care for our dogs and puppies. Like many responsible breeders, I handle my own puppy vaccinations using vaccines I purchase from trusted suppliers like Tractor Supply. I take great care to ensure these vaccines are stored and administered properly—from the moment they leave the cooler at the store to the moment they’re given to each puppy.

Unfortunately, there has been a lot of misinformation and even scare tactics around breeders giving their own vaccines. Some veterinarians may advise starting your puppy’s vaccinations all over again simply because they didn’t administer the vaccines themselves. While I absolutely agree that some breeders may not handle vaccines correctly, that’s not the case for everyone. It’s crucial to know your rights and options in advocating for your puppy’s health.

One powerful tool for this is vaccine titer testing. Titer testing is a simple blood test that measures the level of antibodies in your dog’s system to determine whether the vaccines have provided adequate protection. Instead of just assuming that a vaccine series needs to be repeated, a titer test gives a clear, science-based answer.

The test results can help you and your vet decide whether your puppy truly needs any additional vaccines. If the antibody levels are sufficient, there’s no need to start the vaccine series over from scratch. This not only saves your puppy from unnecessary shots but also respects the careful work breeders do to ensure their dogs’ health.


Why Titer Testing Matters

  • Confirms vaccine effectiveness, avoiding unnecessary repeat vaccines
  • Respects responsible vaccination done by breeders
  • Minimizes vaccine-related stress and potential side effects


Why Titer Testing is Better Than Automatically Re-Vaccinating
Titer testing is a smart choice because it prevents unnecessary vaccine overload in a puppy's young, developing immune system. If a breeder has already administered the recommended vaccines properly, a puppy's immune system may already have robust protection against disease. Giving those same vaccines again without checking first can stress the immune system, potentially leading to increased inflammation, allergic reactions or even autoimmune issues in rare cases. By measuring the actual level of protection in the blood, titer testing ensures we're making informed decisions and not overwhelming a puppy's body with redundant vaccines it may not need. This is especially important in young puppies, whose immune systems are still maturing and who deserve the most careful and gentle start in life.

How It’s Done
Titer testing is a straightforward blood test your vet can perform. Results usually take a few days to return from the lab. The vet or a vet tech will typically draw the blood sample, label it properly, and then send it off to a specialized laboratory for analysis. If you’re unsure, you can always call ahead to confirm that the vet you’re considering offers this service.

What Does It Cost?
As of 2025, the cost of titer testing typically ranges from $70 to $150, depending on your location and the specific lab used. Some clinics may charge a bit more if they send samples to specialized labs. It’s always best to call ahead and ask for a quote so you know what to expect.

Your Right to Advocate
Remember, you are your puppy’s best advocate. If your vet suggests starting vaccinations over, ask about titer testing first. A good vet will respect your knowledge and your commitment to your dogs’ health.

At the end of the day, science matters—and so does working with a trusted professional who understands that not all breeders are the same. Let’s continue to put the health and safety of our puppies first by ensuring informed, evidence-based decisions.

Warm wishes to you and your furry friends!


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