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Common dog diseases

Your dog's health is important to us. On this page, you'll find a structured overview of common canine illnesses, their typical symptoms, possible causes, and preventative measures.


This information is not a substitute for veterinary care, but it will help you better understand symptoms and take timely action.

Contents of this page:

 

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Infektionskrankheiten

Infectious diseases

Parvovirus

Parvovirus is a highly contagious viral disease that primarily affects unvaccinated puppies and young dogs. The virus is transmitted through feces or contaminated surfaces and can survive in the environment for months. Typical symptoms: - Severe, often bloody vomiting, diarrhea, fever, weakness, loss of appetite Diagnosis & Treatment: - Clinical examination, antigen test or PCR - Treatment is intensive and supportive - Fluid and electrolyte replacement - Antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent secondary infections. Prevention: Regular vaccinations and good hygiene. When to see a vet? If your dog suddenly vomits severely, has bloody diarrhea, or appears lethargic, it should be taken to a veterinary clinic or animal hospital immediately. Parvovirus is a veterinary emergency.

Canine Distemper

Distemper is a viral infection that affects the respiratory tract, the digestive system, and the nervous system. Transmission occurs through droplet infection or direct contact. Typical symptoms: - Cough, fever, nasal/eye discharge, diarrhea, neurological disorders (e.g., seizures). Diagnosis & Treatment: - Clinical findings, possibly virus detection - Symptomatic and supportive therapy Prevention: Distemper vaccination is one of the most important basic vaccinations and offers reliable protection. When to see a veterinarian? If your pet has a persistent cough, fever, nasal or eye discharge, and especially neurological symptoms (tremors, seizures, unsteady gait), please seek veterinary care immediately.

Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis is a bacterial infectious disease caused by Leptospira bacteria. The most common route of transmission is the urine of infected wild animals, which contaminates stagnant water and is then drunk by dogs. Typical symptoms: - Fever, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, yellowing of the mucosal membranes (liver!),   increased or decreased urination - In severe cases, bleeding, respiratory distress, circulatory failure Diagnosis & Treatment: - Detection via blood and urine tests, serology or PCR - Early antibiotic therapy and supportive measures (IV fluids, intensive care) are crucial Prevention: - Annual vaccination against Leptospira strains - Provide clean drinking water - Avoid contact with wild animals /rodents and stagnant water When to see a vet? If your dog suddenly seems lethargic, vomits, or shows yellowish mucous membranes, go to the vet immediately!

Canine papillomavirus

Canine papillomavirus is a virus that usually causes benign warts (papillomas) on the mouth, lips, or eyes and occurs primarily in young dogs. Transmission occurs through direct contact with infected dogs or through contaminated objects such as toys or food bowls. The virus is highly contagious to other dogs. However, transmission to humans is not possible. Typical symptoms: - Wart-like, cauliflower-like growths - Usually painless, occasionally  difficulty swallowing Diagnosis & Treatment: - Detection usually through visual examination - Papillomas typically heal    spontaneously - In severe cases, they can be   surgically removed Prevention: - No standard vaccination - Avoid direct contact with infected dogs When to see a vet? If the warts grow rapidly, bleed, interfere with eating, or do not heal within a few weeks, the veterinarian should examine them and remove them if necessary.

Vaccinations play a vital role in preventing many infectious diseases.

If you would like to learn more about recommended vaccinations and vaccination intervals, you can find further information here.

Mittelmeerkrankheiten

Mediterranean diseases

Mediterranean diseases are infections that originally occurred primarily in southern and Mediterranean countries. They are mainly transmitted by blood-sucking parasites such as ticks, mosquitoes, or sandflies.

These include, in particular, leishmaniasis, babesiosis, ehrlichiosis, and dirofilariasis.

Due to travel, imported animals, and climate change, their vectors are now spreading to Central Europe—even to some extent in Germany. Effective tick and mosquito protection is therefore more important than ever.

Leishmaniasis

Leishmaniasis is a chronic parasitic infection transmitted by sandflies. This infection is particularly common in Mediterranean regions. Typical symptoms: - Skin changes, Hair loss, weight loss, Fatigue, swollen lymph nodes - Over time, the organs are also affected Diagnosis & Treatment: - Serological tests and PCR, - combined with clinical examination - Treatment is lengthy and requires specific medications Prevention: - Effective protection against sandflies (repellents, collars) - Regular health checks after travel When to see a vet? As soon as your dog shows skin problems, weight loss, or chronic fatigue after traveling to southern countries, a veterinarian should determine whether a leishmaniasis infection is present.

Babesiosis ("canine malaria")

Babesiosis is a tick-borne infectious disease caused by single-celled blood parasites of the genus Babesia. The pathogens destroy red blood cells, leading to anemia and organ damage. Typical symptoms: - High fever, fatigue - Loss of appetite, weight loss - Dark or reddish urine (dissolved blood cells) - Pale or yellowish mucous membranes - In severe cases: shortness of breath, neurological deficits,   kidney failure Diagnosis & Treatment: - Blood tests (microscopic pathogen detection in blood smear or PCR) - Treatment involves specific antiparasitic drugs as well as supportive care (infusions, blood transfusions, and anti- inflammatory medication) - Early intervention is crucial, as the disease can quickly become life-threatening Prevention: - Year-round tick protection with approved repellent products (spot-on, collar, tablet) - Carefully remove ticks after every walk - When traveling to southern countries, treat preventively When to see a vet? If your pet has a fever, weakness, dark urine, or jaundice after a tick bite, see a vet immediately – babesiosis can quickly become life-threatening.

Dirofilariasis (Heartworm disease)

Dirofilariasis is a parasitic infection transmitted by mosquitoes. The larvae develop into adult worms inside the body, which then settle in the heart and pulmonary arteries. Typical symptoms: - Chronic cough, Decreased performance, Weight loss, shortness of breath, Heart/lung problems Diagnosis & Treatment: - Blood tests & imaging Procedures - Therapy is complex and requires veterinary monitoring Prevention: - Regular mosquito protection and preventative medication (especially when traveling to southern countries) When to see a vet? If your dog develops a cough, lethargy, or weight loss after traveling abroad, it should be tested for heartworms – early diagnosis significantly improves the chances of recovery.

Ehrlichiosis

Ehrlichiosis is a bacterial infection transmitted by ticks. This disease originated in southern countries but is increasingly being detected in Central Europe. Typical symptoms: Acute phase (1–3 weeks after infection): - Fever, lethargy, loss of appetite - Swollen lymph nodes, enlarged spleen - Pinpoint hemorrhages on skin or mucous membranes (thrombocytopenia) Chronic phase: - Weight loss, paleness, recurring fever - Joint pain, nosebleeds - Weakness, anemia, increased susceptibility to infections Diagnosis & Treatment: - Blood test (reduced platelet count) - Serological tests or PCR - Treatment with specific antibiotics - Additional supportive therapy may be necessary (Immune system support, treatment of secondary infections) Prevention: - Reliable, year-round tick protection - Check after every walk When to see a vet? If your dog shows signs of fever, bleeding tendency or weakness after a tick bite or a trip to the south – please have it examined as soon as possible.

Many Mediterranean diseases are transmitted by ticks or mosquitoes. Consistent parasite protection is therefore an important part of preventative healthcare.

Orthopädische & genetisch bedingte Erkrankungen

Orthopedic and genetically determined diseases

Patellar luxation

Patellar luxation is a misalignment of the kneecap, in which it temporarily or permanently slips out of its normal groove. Small breeds are particularly affected by this condition (e.g., Chihuahua, Yorkshire Terrier, Toy Poodle). The cause is usually hereditary, but can also result from accidents or ligament instability. Typical symptoms: - Short hopping on three legs, sudden limping that often disappears spontaneously, or persistent lameness in severe cases Diagnosis & Treatment: - Orthopedic examination and possibly X-rays - Depending on the severity, treatment is conservative (movement control, physiotherapy, weight reduction) or surgical Prevention: - Selective breeding - Joint-friendly training - Avoiding excessive strain during growth When to see a vet? If your dog suddenly pulls up one leg briefly while running, limps, or returns to walking normally after a short time, the joint should be checked by an orthopedist.

Hip dysplasia (HD)

Hip dysplasia is a malformation of the hip joint in which the hip socket is too shallow or the joint is too loose. This can lead to osteoarthritis and chronic pain. This condition primarily affects large dog breeds such as Labradors, German Shepherds, and Rottweilers. Typical symptoms: - Lameness after exercise - Difficulty getting up, climbing stairs, or jumping - Reluctance to move Diagnosis & Treatment: - X-ray or CT scan - Physiotherapy, pain management, up to surgical intervention Prevention: - Breeding control - Joint-friendly exercise during growth - Maintaining weight, avoiding obesity When to see a vet? If your dog limps after getting up, shows pain when climbing stairs, or avoids movement, an X-ray should be taken for diagnosis.

Elbow dysplasia (ED)

Elbow dysplasia is a developmental disorder of the elbow joint that leads to abnormal stress, cartilage damage, and osteoarthritis. Affected breeds are primarily large breeds, such as Labradors or Saint Bernards. Typical symptoms: - Front leg lameness - Facing the affected leg - Restricted movement - Pain when bending or extending the leg Diagnosis & Treatment: - X-ray, CT scan, arthroscopy - Depending on the findings, conservative therapy (rest, physiotherapy) or surgical removal of loose bone fragments Prevention: - Balanced diet - Controlled exercise - Weight control When to see the vet? If your dog limps after exercise or favors a front paw, an early orthopedic examination is advisable – the earlier it is detected, the better it can be treated.

Diet, weight, and lifestyle can positively influence the course of many diseases. A tailored diet provides valuable support for your dog's body.

Skin, eye & respiratory diseases

Haut, Augen, Atemwege

Hotspots
(acute, moist dermatitis)

Cough & Kennel Cough
(CIRDC)

Hotspots are sudden, severely inflamed, and weeping areas of skin, often caused by excessive licking or scratching due to flea bites, allergies, or skin irritations. Typical symptoms: - Reddened, moist, painful skin lesions with intense itching and unpleasant odor Diagnosis & Treatment: - Clinical examination - Shaving the affected area - Local therapy with antiseptic or anti-inflammatory agents, possibly antibiotics Prevention: - Regular skin care, - Parasite control - Hypoallergenic diet When to see a vet? If a skin lesion spreads rapidly, weeps heavily, or has a foul odor, it should be treated by a veterinarian – untreated hotspots can worsen quickly.

CIRDC describes a group of infections collectively known as "kennel cough." Various pathogens are involved (e.g., Bordetella bronchiseptica, parainfluenza, etc.). Typical symptoms: - dry, barking cough, sounding like a "gag," often after excitement or exercise - sometimes nasal discharge, fever, loss of appetite Diagnosis & Treatment: - in persistent cases, laboratory or PCR tests - symptoms usually subside after 1–3 weeks with rest and, if necessary, antibiotics Prevention: - vaccination against Bordetella bronchiseptica and parainfluenza virus in high-risk situations (dog training schools, boarding kennels, shows) - a clean environment and good ventilation prevent infection When to see a vet? If the cough lasts longer than 3 days, or if fever or loss of appetite develops – especially in puppies or older dogs – consult a doctor.

Conjunctivitis
(Inflammation of the conjunctiva)

Conjunctivitis is a common eye condition triggered by irritants such as dust or drafts, allergies, bacteria, or viruses. Dental problems or anatomical abnormalities can also play a role in the development of conjunctivitis. Typical symptoms: - Redness of the eyes - Swelling of the eyelids - Itching - Rubbing with the paw - Yellowish-green discharge Diagnosis & Treatment: - Eye examination with dye test, possibly microbiological examination - Treatment with antibiotic, antiviral or anti-inflammatory eye drops Prevention: - Regular eye care - Protection from drafts - Early treatment of allergies When to see a vet? If your dog has red or watery eyes for more than two days, and your dog frequently rubs its eyes and discharges fluid, the veterinarian should determine the cause – especially to rule out injuries or infectious causes.

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE)

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a viral infection transmitted by infected ticks. While rare in dogs, it can be potentially serious because it attacks the nervous system. Typical symptoms: - Fever - Lethargy - Movement disorders, tremors, seizures, or paralysis Diagnosis & Treatment: - Detection through serology or PCR test - There is no causal therapy, only symptomatic treatment (pain medication, IV fluids, neurological support) Prevention: - Year-round tick protection - Regular coat checks - Remove ticks immediately - There is no approved TBE vaccine for dogs When to see a vet? If your dog shows fever, coordination problems, or neurological abnormalities after a tick bite.

Quellen / Leitlinien

Sources / Guidelines

Infectious Diseases:

  • Merck Veterinary Manual (MSD, 2023): Canine Parvovirus Infection; Leptospirosis in Dogs; Canine Oral Papillomatosis

  • StIKo-Vet Guideline (Friedrich Loeffler Institute, 5th edition, 2023): Vaccination recommendations for small animals (parvovirus, distemper, leptospirosis)

  • Small Animal Clinic, University of Bern (2024): Leptospirosis in dogs – diagnostics and treatment recommendations

  • MSD Animal Health Germany (2023): Product information on leptospirosis vaccines

  • ESCCAP Germany (2024): Vector-borne diseases in dogs (leishmaniasis, dirofilariasis)

  • OpenAgrar (FLI, 2023): Distemper and parvovirus vaccination protocols for dogs


Mediterranean diseases:

  • ESCCAP Germany & Switzerland (2024): Travel-related diseases in dogs – babesiosis, ehrlichiosis, leishmaniasis, dirofilariasis

  • Merck Veterinary Manual (2023): Babesiosis in Dogs; Ehrlichiosis in Dogs; Heartworm disease

  • VCA Animal Hospitals (2024): Ehrlichiosis in Dogs – Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment

  • Parasites & Vectors Journal (2016–2023): Epidemiology of tick-borne protozoal diseases in Europe

  • American Heartworm Society (AHS, 2024): Heartworm Guidelines for Veterinarians

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​Orthopedic & genetic diseases:

  • Merck Veterinary Manual (2023): Patellar Dislocation; Canine Hip Dysplasia; Elbow Dysplasia

  • VCA Animal Hospitals (2022): Patellar Luxation in Dogs

  • American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS, 2024): Canine Hip and Elbow Dysplasia – Overview and Treatment Options

  • GRSK e.V. (2023): Guideline for Hip Dysplasia Diagnosis in Dogs (Germany)

  • DVG (2022): Guideline for Orthopedic Examination in Young Dogs

  • Veterinary Association for Animal Welfare (TVT, 2021): Guideline on Breed-Related Diseases – Chapter PL


Skin & Respiratory Diseases:

  • Merck Veterinary Manual (2023): Acute Moist Dermatitis (Hot Spots); Kennel Cough (CIRDC); Conjunctivitis in Dogs

  • Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine (2022): Pyotraumatic Dermatitis in Dogs (Hot Spots)

  • AniCura Germany (2023–2024): Hot Spots in Dogs; Eye Inflammation in Dogs

  • WSAVA (2023): Respiratory Disease Guidelines (CIRDC & Bordetella Vaccination)

  • University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover (TiHo, 2022): CIRDC in Dogs – Clinical Presentation and Prevention

  • TiHo Hannover (2024): Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) in Dogs – Current Findings and Case Reports

  • Friedrich Loeffler Institute (FLI, 2024): TBE in Dogs and Tick-borne Diseases in Germany

  • ESCCAP Germany (2024): Tick-borne Diseases in Dogs

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