Yes, dogs need booster shots every year. These vaccinations protect dogs from various diseases, including serious ones like distemper. Moreover, in most states, you are legally required to keep your dog’s rabies vaccines up to date. You might have to pay a fine if you miss your dog’s rabies shots. Annual vaccines are of two types, core and recommended. Core vaccines include rabies, parvo, distemper, and hepatitis. The recommended list includes Bordetella bronchiseptica, Borrelia burgdorferi, and Leptospira bacteria.