Lyme disease is caused by bacteria that can be transmitted to dogs, as well as humans and other animals, through a bite from an infected tick. It can cause health problems and severe illness in dogs, but it can also be tricky to diagnose.

So if you’re curious to learn more about Lyme disease, how to spot it, and how to prevent it, keep reading.

Key Takeaways:

  • Lyme disease in dogs is a bacterial infection caused by Borrelia burgdorferi transmitted through the bite of infected ticks.
  • Completing the full course of antibiotics and scheduling follow-up visits and blood tests are essential for effective treatment and monitoring.
  • Most dogs recover well from Lyme disease, but vigilance is needed for possible relapses or complications.

What is Lyme Disease in Dogs?

Lyme disease in dogs is a bacterial infection caused by a bacteria called Borrelia burgdorferi. It is primarily transmitted through the bite of infected ticks, specifically the black-legged tick or deer tick. These ticks become infected by feeding on small mammals, such as mice or birds, that carry the bacteria.

When an infected tick bites a dog and feeds on its blood, it can pass the bacteria into the dog's bloodstream. Not all ticks have the bacteria, and not all tick bites lead to Lyme disease.

The bacteria must be in a tick for a while before infecting the dog. This usually takes around 24 to 48 hours. Once in the dog's body, the bacteria can travel to different parts, like joints, muscles, and the heart, causing Lyme disease symptoms.

Symptoms of Lyme Disease in Dogs

Lyme disease in dogs can have a wide range of symptoms that can be difficult to recognize. It may take weeks or months for symptoms to appear, and some dogs may not show any signs at all. Unlike humans, dogs usually don't develop a bull's eye rash around the tick bite. Here are the common symptoms of Lyme disease in dogs:

  • Fever
  • Lethargy (lack of energy)
  • Swollen joints
  • Lameness (limping)
  • Decreased appetite
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Increased drinking or urination
  • Neurological symptoms

Should My Pet Be Seen by a Veterinarian?

Let’s Start!
Should My Pet Be Seen by a Veterinarian?
1. Have you noticed changes in your pet’s appetite?
2. Does your pet have diarrhea or loose stools?
3. Have you noticed changes in your pet’s thirst/water consumption?
4. Is your pet having accidents in the house?
5. Is your pet pacing and unable to settle?
6. Is your pet panting more than usual?
7. Is your pet whining or vocalizing more than usual?
8. Is your pet shaking more than usual?
9. Is your pet hiding or avoiding physical contact more than usual?
10. Is your pet more lethargic and sleeping more than usual?
11. Are you concerned about changes in your pet’s behavior?
12. Is your pet scratching their ears?
13. Is your pet licking their paws more than usual?
14. Does your pet have a rash?
15. Is your pet moving more slowly than usual or having a harder time getting up or down?

Should My Pet Be Seen by a Veterinarian?

1. Have you noticed changes in your pet’s appetite?
2. Does your pet have diarrhea or loose stools?
3. Have you noticed changes in your pet’s thirst/water consumption?
4. Is your pet having accidents in the house?
5. Is your pet pacing and unable to settle?
6. Is your pet panting more than usual?
7. Is your pet whining or vocalizing more than usual?
8. Is your pet shaking more than usual?
9. Is your pet hiding or avoiding physical contact more than usual?
10. Is your pet more lethargic and sleeping more than usual?
11. Are you concerned about changes in your pet’s behavior?
12. Is your pet scratching their ears?
13. Is your pet licking their paws more than usual?
14. Does your pet have a rash?
15. Is your pet moving more slowly than usual or having a harder time getting up or down?
Restart Test

Share Quiz

How is Lyme Disease Diagnosed?

Diagnosing Lyme disease in dogs can be challenging because the symptoms can be vague and similar to other health issues. Your veterinarian will inquire about your dog's flea and tick prevention and conduct a thorough examination.

Blood tests are available to aid in the diagnosis of Lyme disease. These tests detect antibodies in your dog's blood, usually around 3-5 weeks after infection. However, it's important to note that these tests are not always completely reliable and may need to be repeated. Getting a definitive diagnosis of Lyme disease for your dog may take time, and it often involves ruling out other possible causes. Additionally, assessing your dog's kidney function through blood tests is crucial since Lyme disease can lead to kidney damage.

Treating Lyme Disease in Dogs

Treatment for Lyme disease in dogs primarily involves the use of antibiotics since it is a bacterial infection. The preferred antibiotic is typically Doxycycline, and your veterinarian will prescribe a lengthy course lasting several weeks. It's crucial to complete the entire course of antibiotics and schedule follow-up visits and blood tests to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment.

In some cases, dogs may also require anti-inflammatory medication and pain relief, especially if they experience joint issues. If there are any kidney problems associated with Lyme disease, appropriate treatment will be necessary.

Fortunately, most dogs recover well from Lyme disease. However, it's essential to remain vigilant for the possible recurrence of symptoms, as relapses can happen. In rare instances where Lyme disease becomes severe or leads to complications, hospitalization may be required for intensive treatment.

Prevent Lyme Disease in Dogs

To prevent Lyme disease in dogs, it is crucial to prevent ticks from attaching to your pet. It's also essential to determine if Lyme disease is common in the area where you live and walk your dog. Here are some simple steps you can take to protect your furry friend:

  1. Use regular flea and tick prevention: Consult your veterinarian to find the most suitable flea and tick prevention program for your pet. They can guide you through the different options available.
  2. Inspect your dog after walks: After walking your dog, especially in woodland or areas with long grass, carefully check your pet for ticks. Ticks tend to target the head, neck, and legs.
  3. Promptly remove ticks: If you find a tick on your dog, it's important to remove it as soon as possible. Your veterinarian can demonstrate the proper technique to ensure complete removal. Additionally, there are tools available that can make the process easier.
  4. Avoid tick-prone areas: In warmer months when ticks are more prevalent, try to avoid areas with long grass and marshes where ticks are commonly found.

Following these preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of your dog contracting Lyme disease.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Lyme disease is a bacterial infection caused by Borrelia, and it’s transmitted to dogs through the bite of an infected tick. It can cause a range of vague and intermittent symptoms in dogs and be tricky to spot and diagnose. But once diagnosed, it can be treated easily with antibiotics. The best way to prevent Lyme disease is using flea and tick prevention using regular treatments available from your vet. 

Book a visit with your veterinarian if these issues continue to persist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can pets catch Lyme disease?

Yes, pets, including dogs, can catch Lyme disease from infected ticks.

Can I catch Lyme Disease from my dog?

While rare, humans can catch Lyme disease from infected ticks, but not directly from their dogs.

Can a dog recover from Lyme disease?

Most dogs recover well from Lyme disease with proper treatment and monitoring.

How serious is Lyme disease in dogs?

Lyme disease can be a serious dog illness, affecting various body systems.

What are the long-term effects of Lyme in dogs?

Long-term effects of Lyme disease in dogs can include joint problems and kidney damage.

How long does it take to treat Lyme disease in dogs?

Treatment for Lyme disease in dogs typically lasts several weeks, but the duration may vary based on the severity of the infection.