Common Infectious Diseases in Dogs

Infectious diseases in dogs refer to a wide range of illnesses caused by

viral, bacterial, parasitic or fungal agents.

These diseases can be highly contagious and can spread rapidly among
dogs and other animals.

Diagnosis typically involves laboratory testing to identify the specific

pathogen causing the antibiotics

How is treated

Medication such as antibiotics or antiviral drugs may be prescribed to help

control the infection.

Supportive care such as intravenous fluids, nutritional support, and other

interventions may also be necessary to manage symptoms and prevent
complications.

Canine Parvovirus (“parvo”)

Canine parvovirus (CPV) is a highly contagious viral infection that affects

dogs, particularly puppies and unvaccinated dogs.

Etiology

It belongs to the Parvoviridae family and primarily targets the

gastrointestinal tract. The virus can cause severe illness and life-
threatening, especially in young or immunocompromised dogs.

Transmission

CPV is transmitted through direct contact with infected dogs or their feces.

It can also be spread indirectly through contaminated objects or

environments. The virus is highly resistant and can survive in the
environment for months, making it easily transmissible.

Pathogenesis

Once a dog is infected, the virus attacks rapidly, dividing cells in the
intestinal lining, bone marrow, and lymphoid tissues. This leads to severe
gastroenteritis.

Clinical findings
Vomiting

Diarrhea (often bloody)

Lethargy

Loss of appetite

Dehydration.

In some cases, CPV can also affect the heart, leading to myocarditis.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing canine parvovirus entails observing clinical signs, gathering

patient history, and conducting laboratory tests to verify the presence of
the virus.

Fecal antigen test: This quick, in-clinic test identifies viral proteins
(antigens) in the dog’s feces. The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay
(ELISA) is the most common type of fecal antigen test, offering results
within minutes.

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test: PCR testing is a sensitive molecular

test that detects the virus’s genetic material in the dog’s feces or blood.

Complete blood count (CBC): to assess the dog’s overall health and
identify abnormalities such as a low white blood cell count (leukopenia).

Blood chemistry profile: This test can help detect electrolyte imbalances
and organ dysfunction.

Treatment

There is no specific antiviral treatment for canine parvovirus, so treatment

focuses on providing supportive care to help the dog’s body fight the
infection and manage the symptoms.

Early intervention and aggressive treatment significantly improve the

chances of recovery for young dogs with canine parvovirus infection.

Depending on the severity, various treatment options for parvovirus in

dogs include:
Hospitalization: Most dogs with parvovirus will require hospitalization and
intensive care due to the severity of the infection .

Intravenous (IV) fluids: Dehydration resulting from vomiting and diarrhea

is a significant concern in dogs with parvovirus.

Prevention is key to protecting dogs from CPV.

Vaccination is highly effective and typically included in puppies’ core

vaccination protocols.

In addition, maintaining good hygiene, avoiding contact with infected dogs

or their feces, and disinfecting contaminated areas are essential
preventative measures.

Canine distemper

Canine distemper, a common canine disease, is an extremely contagious

viral ailment affecting dogs and other animals. This disease of dogs
primarily impacts the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems of
the afflicted animals.

Etiology

It’s triggered by the canine distemper virus (CDV), a member of the

Paramyxoviridae family

Transmission

The virus is mainly transmitted through respiratory secretions or feces

from infected animals, allowing it to spread between animals. However, it
can also propagate through objects contaminated by the virus or via direct
contact with infected animals. Puppies and unvaccinated dogs are
particularly prone to contracting this disease.

Pathogenesis

Upon infection, the virus proliferates through the respiratory tract and the
lymphatic system, aiming at different organs and tissues.

Clinical finding

Fever, nasal and ocular discharge, coughing, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy,

and loss of appetite.
In severe instances, distemper can also provoke neurological symptoms,
such as seizures, tremors, and alterations in behavior, making it a
common cause of such symptoms in dogs.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing distemper generally involves the consideration of clinical

signs, history, and laboratory tests such as blood analyses and viral
detection from swabs or tissue samples.

Treatment

Unfortunately, no targeted antiviral treatment for distemper exists, so

providing supportive care becomes crucial. This includes managing
symptoms, supplying fluids to prevent dehydration, and preventing
secondary bacterial infections.

Prevention

Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to protect dog from

distemper.

It is typically included in the core puppy vaccination protocols, much like a

vaccine for Lyme disease, another disease affecting animals and people.

Distemper is a severe and often fatal disease, so prevention through

vaccination and avoiding exposure to infected animals is paramount. In
addition, practices like maintaining good hygiene, quarantining infected
dogs, and disinfecting areas contaminated by the virus also aid in curbing
the spread of this virus.

External parasites

External parasites in dogs are organisms that live on the outer surface of
the dog’s body and feed on its blood or skin. These parasites can cause
discomfort, irritation, and various health issues for dogs. Common
external parasites in dogs include fleas, ticks, lice, mites, and mange.

fleas

Fleas are tiny, wingless insects that infest the dog’s fur, causing itching,
scratching, and allergic reactions. They can also transmit diseases and
parasites.
Ticks

Ticks are arachnids that attach to the dog’s skin and feed on its blood.
They can transmit various diseases, such as Lyme disease and
Ehrlichiosis.

Mites

Mites are microscopic organisms that can cause various skin conditions in
dogs. Examples include ear mites, which infest the dog’s ear canals,
sarcoptic and Demodex mange mites, which cause mange and intense
itching.

lice

Lice are small insects that infest the dog’s fur, causing itching, scratching,
and hair loss. They are most commonly seen in puppies and dogs with
weakened immune systems.

Treatment

The treatment of external parasites in dogs depends on the type and

severity of the infestation. In many cases, topical or oral medication may
be recommended to kill and prevent further infestations. In cases where
the infestation is severe or has led to other health problems, additional
treatments such as antibiotics or supportive care may also be necessary.

Prevention

External parasites can be prevented and treated through various methods,

including regular grooming, proper nutrition, maintaining a clean living
environment, and seeking veterinary treatment when necessary.

Fungal infectious disease

Fungal infectious diseases in dogs are caused by various fungi that can
infect the dog’s body and cause various health issues. Fungi are
microorganisms that can thrive in different environments and infect
different parts of the dog’s body, including the skin, respiratory system,
digestive system, and internal organs.

Common fungal infections in dogs include:

Dermatophytosis (Ringworm)

Dermatophytosis (Ringworm): This fungal infection affects dogs’ skin, hair,

and nails.

It can cause circular patches of hair loss, redness, itching, and crusty
lesions

Aspergillosis

Aspergillosis: This is a respiratory infection caused by the Aspergillus

fungus. Dogs can inhale the spores, leading to respiratory symptoms such
as coughing, difficulty breathing, nasal discharge, and sneezing.

Blastomycosis

Blastomycosis: This is a systemic fungal infection caused by the fungus

Blastomyces.

It commonly affects the lungs but can also spread to other organs.

Symptoms may include coughing, difficulty breathing, weight loss, skin

lesions, and eye problems.

Histoplasmosis

Histoplasmosis: This is another systemic fungal infection caused by the

fungus Histoplasma.

Dogs can contract the infection by inhaling fungal spores.

It can affect the lungs, liver, spleen, and other organs.

Symptoms may include coughing, weight loss, loss of appetite, and fever.

Cryptococcosis

Cryptococcosis: This is a fungal infection caused by the Cryptococcus

fungus.

It primarily affects the respiratory system but can also involve the central
nervous system.

Symptoms may include nasal discharge, respiratory distress, neurological

signs, and eye problems.
Fungal infections in dogs are typically diagnosed through clinical signs,
microscopic examination of samples, fungal culture, and other specialized
tests. In addition, treatment often involves antifungal medications specific
to the type of infection and supportive care to manage symptoms and
promote healing. Therefore, it’s important to consult a veterinarian to
diagnose and treat fungal infections in dogs.

Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection that afflicts dogs, other animals, and

even humans.

This disease is caused by bacteria belonging to the Genus Leptospira.

These bacteria, typically present in the urine of infected animals, have a

remarkable ability to survive in soil and water for prolonged periods.

Transmission

Dogs are susceptible to infection through contact with contaminated

water, soil or through interaction with infected animals, including rodents,
wild animals, and wildlife.

CLINICAL FINDING

The clinical presentations of leptospirosis can vary, ranging from mild to

severe. In certain instances, dogs may not exhibit any discernible
symptoms, while in others, the disease could progress rapidly, culminating
in serious illness. Common indications of leptospirosis in dogs include:

Fever

Lethargy

Decreased appetite

Vomiting, diarrhea

Abdominal pain

Muscle pain

Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)

Leptospirosis also qualifies as a zoonotic disease, signifying that it can be
transmitted from animals to humans. Therefore, exercising caution is vital
when interacting with an infected dog or when contacting its bodily fluids,
including contact with animal feces.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of leptospirosis is usually determined through a mix of

clinical signs, blood tests, and specific laboratory tests aimed at detecting
the presence of Leptospira bacteria or antibodies in the dog’s blood or
urine.

Treatment

Treatment typically incorporates antibiotics to exterminate the bacteria

and supportive care to manage symptoms and avoid complications.

Prevention

Prevention of leptospirosis includes vaccination, avoiding interaction with

potentially contaminated environments or animals, and adhering to good
hygiene practices, such as donning protective gloves when handling
potentially infected animals or their fluids.

Further, a consultation with a veterinarian is vital for diagnosing, treating,

and preventing leptospirosis in dogs. Finally, it’s essential to remember
that dogs carry many diseases, and this bacteria is very contagious,
underscoring the importance of preventative measures.

Kennel cough

Kennel cough, or canine infectious tracheobronchitis, is a highly

contagious respiratory infection many dogs can contract.

Viruses and bacteria, including canine parainfluenza, canine adenovirus,

and Bordetella bronchiseptica, typically cause this illness.

Transmission

The disease occurs when these pathogens are present and easily spread
in areas where dogs are nearby, such as kennels, dog parks, or grooming
facilities.

CLINICAL FINDING

The cardinal symptom of kennel cough is a persistent, dry, hacking cough,

often forceful and suggestive of a dog attempting to clear its throat. Dogs
may also display symptoms including sneezing, nasal discharge, a mild
fever, loss of appetite, and lethargy. The cough may sometimes worsen,
leading to discomfort and difficulty breathing.

The disease can advance to more acute respiratory infections or

pneumonia in certain instances, particularly in puppies or dogs with
compromised immune systems.

DIAGNOSIS

The diagnosis is made from the history, physical examination, clinical

signs and by ruling out other causes of coughing.

Diagnostic tools include chest x-rays, use of an endoscope to view the

bronchial tubes (bronchoscopy), and collection of biopsy and swab
samples for laboratory analysis.

Bronchial washing is an additional diagnostic aid that may demonstrate

the agent causing the illness.

Treatment

The therapeutic approach for kennel cough chiefly involves supportive

care to mitigate symptoms.

This may involve administering cough suppressants or bronchodilators to

facilitate easier breathing.

Also, if a bacterial infection is suspected, antibiotics may be prescribed to

prevent secondary bacterial infections.

Prevention

Rest and isolation from other dogs are also vital to prevent the disease
from spreading further. Knowing that most dogs will recover is reassuring,
but immediate veterinary attention is needed when disseminated disease
occurs.

Rabbies

Rabies is a lethal viral disease impacting the nervous systems of

mammals, including dogs, which can lead to dire neurological symptoms.

Transmission
The rabies virus, responsible for the disease, is typically transmitted via
the bite or scratch from an affected dog or other infected animals. This
disease is caused by the virus infiltrating the brain and spinal cord.

Clinical findings

In its initial stages, rabies in dogs may present indistinct symptoms.

These can encompass behavioral shifts such as heightened aggression or

withdrawal, excessive salivation, and challenges in swallowing (furious )

As the disease advances, more severe symptoms manifest in the affected

dogs. These include muscular weakness, paralysis, confusion, seizures,
and eventual coma or death (paralytic).

Rabies is a fatal disease once its clinical signs surface; currently, no cure
exists.

Diagnosis

Either clinically or by laboratory examination.

For clinical diagnoses the veterinarian looks for a combination of

symptoms, at the animal’s history and habits.

Laboratory examination of brain tissue is carried out after death. Blood

test (i.e. ELISA) can be carried out on living animals but are not commonly
performed.

Prevention

Since rabies is a zoonotic infection capable of transmission to humans and

other animals, prevention is paramount. Rabies vaccination is the most
effective measure to safeguard dogs against this disease. It’s usually
administered in a series starting at a young age, followed by regular
booster shots.

In regions where rabies is prevalent, maintaining close supervision of

dogs, including female dogs who might be more vulnerable due to
pregnancy or nursing, is critical to prevent contact with wild animals like
bats, raccoons, skunks, and foxes, which are common virus carriers.

This precaution is especially important during events where many dogs,

like a dog show, are gathered. If a potentially rabid animal bites a dog,
immediate veterinary care is necessary, and the incident must be
reported to the local animal control or public health authorities. Timely
and appropriate management can help curtail the spread of rabies to
humans, other animals, and even healthy dogs, thus mitigating the overall
risk of infection.

Canine parainfluenza

Canine parainfluenza is a highly contagious respiratory virus that affects

dogs.

It is one of the pathogens commonly associated with kennel cough, a

respiratory infection characterized by a harsh, dry cough.

Canine influenza is caused by the parainfluenza virus, which primarily

affects the respiratory system of dogs.

Transmission

The virus is spread through respiratory secretions, such as coughing or

sneezing, from infected dogs.

It can also be transmitted indirectly through contaminated surfaces or

objects.

Puppies, elderly dogs, and dogs with weakened immune systems are
particularly susceptible to infection.

Clinical findings

The symptoms of canine parainfluenza include a persistent, dry cough,

nasal discharge, sneezing, and mild respiratory distress. The infection may
sometimes progress to more severe respiratory symptoms, such as
pneumonia. It is important to note that canine parainfluenza can be easily
mistaken for other respiratory infections, so proper diagnosis by a
veterinarian is essential.

Diagnosis

Case history and symptoms

Vet should performs a physical examination to the dogs and take blood
and/or secretion samples to test for the virus and rule out other illnesses.

Pneumonia is suspected, they may also take a chest x-ray.

Prevention

Vaccination against CPIV is recommended for puppies younger than eight

weeks old.
Vaccinated puppies older than eight weeks old should receive booster
vaccinations every three months.

Booster vaccines are available commercially.

Canine coronavirus

Canine coronavirus is a highly contagious viral infection that primarily

affects the gastrointestinal system of dogs. It is caused by the canine
coronavirus (CCoV) and is different from the coronavirus strain that causes
COVID-19 in humans.

Transmission

Canine coronavirus is spread through contact with infected feces,

contaminated surfaces, or oral exposure to infected material. Puppies and
dogs with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to the virus.

Pathogenesis

The virus primarily affects the small intestine, leading to inflammation and
damage to the intestinal lining.

Clinical findings

The symptoms of canine coronavirus infection can vary but commonly

include diarrhea, vomiting, loss of appetite, lethargy, and dehydration.

In severe cases, it can lead to more serious gastrointestinal issues.

It is important to note that canine coronavirus infection can be easily

mistaken for other gastrointestinal illnesses, so proper diagnosis by a
veterinarian is essential.

Diagnosis

Most cases of coronavirus are diagnosed symptomatically.

Watery diarrhea in puppies is the most common symptom.

Definitive diagnoses can be made by performing PCR tests

A tissue swab may be sent for testing.

Prevention

Preventing canine coronavirus involves good hygiene practices, such as

proper sanitation of living areas, regular cleaning of food and water bowls,
and prompt removal and disposal of feces.

Vaccination against canine coronavirus is available in some regions but is

not considered a core vaccine and is generally recommended based on
the dog’s risk of exposure.

Infectious canine hepatitis

Infectious canine hepatitis (ICH), also referred to as canine hepatitis, is a

prevalent viral ailment primarily affecting the livers and other organs of
domestic dogs. The disease is instigated by canine adenovirus type 1
(CAV-1)

Transmission

Transmission is highly efficient, spreading through contact with infected

dogs’ urine

, feces, saliva, or nasal secretions.

CLINICAL FINDING

The signs of infectious canine hepatitis in dogs can fluctuate, depending

on the intensity of the infection.

Light cases might present symptoms such as fever, lethargy, diminished

appetite, coughing, conjunctivitis and blue eye

More severe cases can result in jaundice (yellowing of the eyes and
mucous membranes), abdominal discomfort, vomiting, diarrhea, and
possibly life-threatening complications like liver failure and clotting
disorders.

This inflammatory disease is usually more severe in young dogs, while

older dogs may have milder symptoms or be asymptomatic carriers.

Diagnosis

Although clinical signs of infectious canine hepatitis can be nonspecific

any young puppy with evidence of severe hepatic dysfunction,
coagulopathy or disseminated intravascular coagulation, or corneal
clouding should be considered a suspect for ICH.
 Laboratory tests (including antibody tests, immuno-fluorescence scanning
and blood tests) are needed to confirm a diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment usually involves supportive care tailored to manage symptoms

and ward off complications. This care may encompass intravenous fluids,
medications to bolster liver function, and other supportive therapies
suited to the specific needs of the individual dog.

Prevention

There exists a vaccination to avert canine hepatitis, and it’s often

incorporated into the core vaccination regimen for dogs.

In addition, vaccination aids in fostering immunity against the virus,

diminishing the threat and harshness of the disease. Hence, dog owners
must adhere to the suggested vaccination timeline and ensure their dog’s
vaccinations remain current.

Early detection of this common form in dogs, combined with preventive

measures like vaccination and proper hygiene practices, can significantly
aid in protecting dogs from canine hepatitis. Therefore, the infection is
usually manageable if caught early and treated appropriately.