Dogs are becoming increasingly popular as pets and with good reason. These loyal, intelligent, and affectionate animals make great family members. Dogs are highly social creatures, and most dogs enjoy the company of other dogs.
Society has become more and more “dog friendly”—we have dog beaches and dog parks, doggy daycare centers, dog salons, and dog-walking groups. Many bars and cafes are now allowing (or even encouraging) the presence of dogs. This certainly makes for enjoyable experiences, for both us and our dogs.
But with so much canine crossover, do we need to be worried about the risk of diseases spreading amongst dogs? Indeed, several canine diseases are contagious, meaning they can spread from dog to dog. With good preventative measures and a reasonable amount of caution, we can minimize the risk of disease transmission among dogs.
Can Dogs Get Sick from Other Dogs?
Yes, dogs can get sick from other dogs. Several diseases are contagious, meaning direct contact between an affected or sick dog can “spread” the disease to an unaffected dog. Other diseases are not directly contagious, but are infectious or transmissible, meaning they can be contracted under certain circumstances.
How Are Diseases Transmitted Between Dogs?
There are several ways that diseases can be transmitted between dogs, including:
- Biting and licking (exposure to saliva)
- Ingestion of fecal material
- Sneezing, coughing, and panting
- Sharing food bowls, water bowls, brushes and bedding
- Sexual transmission
The 7 Common Transmissible Diseases in Dogs
Below is a list of the seven most common diseases that can be spread from dog to dog.
1. Parvovirus
Canine parvovirus (colloquially referred to as “parvo”) is highly contagious. This virus attacks the cells that line the gastrointestinal system, causing fever, vomiting, and severe, often bloody, diarrhea. Parvovirus is spread by direct contact between dogs as well as through stools shed by infected dogs. It can also be spread by contaminated surfaces, bowls, and collars, as well as through the hands and clothing of people.
People cannot be infected with parvovirus. The virus is extremely durable, meaning it can survive in the soil and other parts of the environment for years. While treating parvovirus can be intensive and costly, there is a highly effective vaccination available. It is considered a “core” vaccine and is recommended for every dog.
2. Distemper virus
While canine distemper virus is a severe (and often fatal) disease, its incidence in the Western world is largely reduced thanks to widespread vaccination. The disease is spread by bodily secretions and causes three issues: gastrointestinal upset, upper respiratory disease, and neurologic signs.
Distemper is also part of the “core” vaccinations for dogs that should be commenced from puppyhood.
3. Kennel Cough
Kennel Cough is the common term for “Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease” (CIRD). This is one of the most common causes of coughing in dogs and is more common in dogs that have been to kennels, boarding facilities, daycare, or groomers. Kennel cough is extremely contagious and can be transmitted by aerosols released when a sick animal coughs, by direct contact with an infected animal, or by sharing contaminated objects such as bowls and bedding.
Several pathogens or bugs can be involved in Kennel Cough, including Canine Parainfluenza (a virus) and Bordetella bronchiseptica (a bacterium). Most dogs are vaccinated against kennel cough, though it is not a “core vaccine”, as is the case with parvovirus, distemper virus, and hepatitis.
4. Canine hepatitis
Hepatitis is defined as inflammation of the liver. In dogs, this is caused by a member of the adenovirus family, and it is spread through saliva and other bodily secretions. In severe cases, as is often the case in puppies, affected dogs experience fever, depression, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
Some dogs develop edema (fluid swellings) and jaundice (yellow discoloration of the gums). As with the Distemper virus, vaccination has been very successful at both preventing and reducing the prevalence of hepatitis disease. For this reason, ongoing vaccination is essential.
5. Ringworm
People can get ringworm (technical name Dermatophytosis), and so can dogs. This is a highly contagious fungus, causing round, red, slightly raised “ring” lesions on the skin. Transmission of ringworm occurs by direct contact with the fungus. This “direct contact” could be with an infected animal or person, or by touching contaminated objects or surfaces.
The fungal spores may remain dormant in the house and environment for more than a year. Contact with ringworm fungus does not always lead to an infection, as factors like exposure level, age, and health of the animal play a role. While maintaining good hygiene and avoiding infected animals are crucial, there are no specific preventive treatments for ringworm.
It is important to note that canine ringworm is zoonotic, meaning it can be transmitted to humans. If your dog is diagnosed with ringworm, it is advisable to consult with a doctor or healthcare professional for guidance.
Rabies is a fatal disease that affects various mammalian species, including dogs. This virus spreads through the saliva of infected animals, causing inflammation of the brain. Vaccination against rabies is mandatory for dogs in most U.S. states, and regular vaccination has significantly reduced the incidence of this disease.
Both internal and external parasites can be transmitted among dogs. Common external parasites include mites and fleas, while internal parasites like roundworm, hookworm, tapeworm, Coccidia, and Giardia are spread through contaminated feces. Over-the-counter treatments in tablet or topical forms can help prevent many parasites, and consulting a veterinarian can assist in choosing the right product for your dog.
In conclusion, the risk of transmissible diseases in dogs can be minimized through proper vaccination, parasite prevention, and hygiene practices. If unsure about your dog’s vaccination status or parasite prevention, seek guidance from a veterinarian. In case of a transmissible disease outbreak in your area, consult a veterinarian to learn how to reduce exposure risks. Rewrite the given sentence.