Which of the following is a core vaccination for dogs?

Rabies is classified as a core vaccination for dogs because it is a significant public health concern and is required by law in many areas. The rabies virus is zoonotic, meaning it can be transmitted from animals to humans, and it often leads to severe neurological disease and death if left untreated. Vaccinating dogs against rabies helps protect both the animal and the community at large, reducing the risk of outbreaks.

Core vaccinations are generally recommended for all dogs due to the severity of the diseases they prevent and the high risk of exposure. In contrast, the other options, while important, are considered non-core vaccines and may not be necessary for every dog, depending on their lifestyle and risk factors. For instance, leptospirosis is a concern primarily in certain regions or for dogs with specific exposures, coccidia is a parasitic infection that may not require routine vaccination, and kennel cough is often associated with specific environments, like kennels or dog parks.