List of dog diseases

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List of Dog Diseases

The health of dogs is a significant concern for veterinarians and pet owners alike. Dogs, like humans, are susceptible to a variety of diseases that can affect their quality of life and longevity. This article provides a comprehensive list of common diseases that affect dogs, along with brief descriptions and links to more detailed articles where available.

Infectious Diseases

Canine Distemper

Canine distemper is a highly contagious viral disease that affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and central nervous systems of dogs. It is caused by the canine distemper virus (CDV), which is related to the measles virus in humans.

Canine Parvovirus

Canine parvovirus is a highly contagious viral disease that primarily affects puppies and young dogs. It attacks the gastrointestinal tract and can lead to severe vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration.

Rabies

Rabies is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system of mammals, including dogs. It is transmitted through the bite of an infected animal and is almost always fatal once symptoms appear.

Kennel Cough

Kennel cough, also known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis, is a highly contagious respiratory disease. It is caused by a combination of bacteria and viruses, including Bordetella bronchiseptica and canine parainfluenza virus.

Parasitic Diseases

Heartworm Disease

Heartworm disease is caused by the parasitic worm Dirofilaria immitis, which is transmitted through mosquito bites. The worms live in the heart and pulmonary arteries, causing damage to the cardiovascular system.

Fleas and Ticks

Fleas and ticks are common external parasites that can cause a variety of health issues in dogs, including skin irritation, allergic reactions, and transmission of diseases such as Lyme disease.

Intestinal Parasites

Dogs can be infected with various intestinal parasites, including roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms. These parasites can cause gastrointestinal distress and malnutrition.

Genetic and Hereditary Diseases

Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is a genetic condition that affects the hip joints of dogs, leading to arthritis and pain. It is common in large breed dogs.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy

Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) is a group of genetic diseases that cause the degeneration of the retina, leading to blindness in dogs.

Epilepsy

Epilepsy in dogs is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures. It can be inherited or caused by other factors such as brain injury or infection.

Autoimmune Diseases

Canine Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia

Canine autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) is a condition where the dog's immune system attacks its own red blood cells, leading to anemia.

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease that can affect multiple systems in the dog's body, including the skin, joints, and kidneys.

Also see

• Veterinary medicine
• Dog health
• Vaccination schedule for dogs
• Zoonotic diseases