Introduction
Lyme disease isn’t just a concern for humans—dogs are also vulnerable to this potentially serious tick-borne illness. Caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi and transmitted primarily by the blacklegged tick (deer tick), Lyme disease can lead to long-term health complications in dogs if left untreated.
This article will help dog owners understand how Lyme disease affects their pets, what symptoms to look for, how to prevent infection, and when to seek veterinary care.
What Causes Lyme Disease in Dogs?
Lyme disease is caused by the spiral-shaped bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi. It’s transmitted when an infected tick attaches and feeds on a dog for 24–48 hours or longer. Not all ticks carry the bacteria, but the risk is especially high in wooded or grassy areas, particularly in the Northeast, Midwest, and Pacific Northwest regions of the U.S.
How Do Dogs Get Lyme Disease?
Dogs contract Lyme disease through tick bites, usually from:
- Blacklegged ticks (Ixodes scapularis) in the Eastern and Midwestern U.S.
- Western blacklegged ticks (Ixodes pacificus) on the West Coast
Ticks are most active in spring, summer, and fall, but can bite any time temperatures rise above freezing.
Symptoms of Lyme Disease in Dogs
Unlike humans, dogs often don’t develop a rash after a tick bite. Instead, symptoms may be subtle at first and appear weeks to months after exposure.
Common signs include:
- Limping or lameness (may shift from leg to leg)
- Stiffness or joint swelling
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy or low energy
- Swollen lymph nodes
More severe cases may lead to:
- Kidney disease or failure
- Heart or neurological complications (rare)
If your dog exhibits any of these signs, especially after spending time outdoors, a veterinary visit is essential.
Diagnosis
Your veterinarian may use:
- Physical examination and history
- Blood tests to detect Borrelia antibodies (commonly the C6 test or SNAP 4Dx Plus)
- Urinalysis to check for kidney involvement
Note: A positive test doesn’t always mean active disease. Some dogs may test positive without showing symptoms, indicating prior exposure.
Treatment for Lyme Disease in Dogs
Lyme disease is typically treated with a 30-day course of antibiotics, usually doxycycline or amoxicillin.
Most dogs respond well within a few days, though some may need longer or additional treatment if symptoms persist.
In cases involving kidney damage or more serious symptoms, hospitalization and supportive care may be required.
Preventing Lyme Disease in Dogs
1. Use Tick Preventatives
Apply monthly tick control products such as:
- Oral medications (e.g., NexGard, Bravecto, Simparica)
- Topical treatments (e.g., Frontline Plus, K9 Advantix II)
- Tick collars (e.g., Seresto)
2. Check Your Dog Daily
After outdoor activity, inspect your dog for ticks—especially:
- Around ears
- Between toes
- Under the collar
- Around tail and groin
Remove any ticks promptly and carefully with tweezers or a tick removal tool.
3. Vaccinate (If Recommended)
Your vet may recommend a Lyme disease vaccine, particularly if you live in or visit high-risk areas. It’s usually given in two doses initially, then boosted annually.
Note: Vaccination is not a replacement for tick prevention.
4. Avoid Tick-Infested Areas
Stay on clear trails and avoid tall grasses, brush, or wooded areas during peak tick seasons.
Can Dogs Transmit Lyme Disease to Humans?
No. Dogs cannot directly transmit Lyme disease to humans. However, they can carry infected ticks into the home, increasing your risk of exposure. That’s why protecting your dog also helps protect you.
When to See the Vet
Take your dog to the veterinarian if:
- They show lameness, lethargy, fever, or swollen joints
- You’ve found a tick attached
- You live in or have visited an area with high Lyme risk
Early treatment leads to better outcomes and fewer complications.
Summary: Key Takeaways
| Topic | Details |
| Cause | Bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, spread by blacklegged ticks |
| Symptoms | Lameness, fever, joint pain, loss of appetite, fatigue |
| Diagnosis | Blood tests, physical exam, history of tick exposure |
| Treatment | Antibiotics (usually doxycycline) |
| Prevention | Tick preventatives, tick checks, possible vaccination |
| Human Risk | Dogs can’t spread Lyme, but they can bring infected ticks indoors |
Conclusion
Lyme disease in dogs is a serious but preventable illness. With regular tick prevention, routine checks, and awareness of symptoms, you can protect your dog from long-term health problems. If your dog shows signs of Lyme disease, don’t delay—early veterinary care can make all the difference.
FAQs:
Can Lyme disease in dogs be cured?
Yes, most dogs recover fully with prompt antibiotic treatment.
How long after a tick bite do symptoms appear?
Symptoms can appear 2–5 months later, which makes diagnosis tricky.
Should I vaccinate my dog for Lyme disease?
In high-risk areas, yes—talk to your vet about whether it’s right for your dog.
Can dogs be reinfected?
Yes, dogs can be bitten by infected ticks again, so continued prevention is crucial.
What happens if Lyme disease goes untreated in dogs?
Untreated Lyme can lead to kidney failure, chronic pain, or long-term joint issues.
