Can dogs get tuberculosis? What UK owners should know

Tuberculosis, historically known as “consumption,” is a contagious bacterial disease affecting humans and a range of animals, including dogs. It is zoonotic, meaning it can be transmitted between species such as from humans to dogs or from cattle to dogs.

The disease is caused by different bacteria strains, primarily Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Mycobacterium bovis, affecting mainly the lungs but potentially other organs. Most dogs have some natural resistance to the infection but young puppies, dogs with weakened immune systems, or those frequently exposed to infected animals or humans are at higher risk.

Although tuberculosis is rare in the UK due to successful eradication efforts, dog owners in rural areas or those close to farms should be aware of the risks and symptomatology. Understanding how dogs catch the disease and the protocols for managing suspected cases is crucial for responsible ownership.

What is tuberculosis and its impact on dogs?

Tuberculosis in dogs primarily affects the lungs, causing symptoms such as persistent coughing, difficulty breathing, weakness, and lethargy. Other general signs may include weight loss, reduced appetite, vomiting, and jaundice. The infection can also localise to areas like the liver, kidneys, or even bite wounds.

This disease is serious; infected dogs often face a poor prognosis. Because TB is highly contagious and a public health concern, euthanasia is commonly recommended to prevent disease spread to other animals and humans.

How do dogs contract tuberculosis?

Transmission to dogs occurs mainly through close contact with infected humans or animals. In the UK, cattle infected with M. bovis pose a risk through contaminated milk, meat, or direct contact. Transmission from humans is primarily airborne, making close proximity and exposure to coughs or sneezes a higher risk for dogs.

Dogs living near or on dairy or beef farms involved in TB outbreaks have an increased risk and may be required to undergo testing. Additionally, travellers from regions with higher TB rates, including parts of sub-Saharan Africa, may unintentionally introduce the disease to pets and communities.

Despite these risks, dogs typically show considerable resistance. However, vigilance and timely veterinary examination are critical if exposure is suspected.

What are the symptoms of tuberculosis in dogs?

Symptoms often appear slowly, taking weeks or even months to manifest. Look out for signs such as:

• Persistent, sometimes painful cough that may produce phlegm
• Progressive weight loss and muscle wasting
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
• Vomiting and regurgitation associated with respiratory or digestive system involvement
• Marked lethargy and poor exercise tolerance
• Slow-healing wounds or infections due to weakened immunity

Symptoms may not be specific to tuberculosis alone, so any signs of illness following known exposure should prompt immediate veterinary consultation.

How is tuberculosis diagnosed and reported in the UK?

Diagnosing TB in dogs involves a combination of clinical examination, radiographs, specialised microbiological tests including PCR, culture of the bacteria, and sometimes biopsies. Traditional tuberculin skin testing is generally unreliable in dogs.

In the UK, suspected or confirmed cases of tuberculosis in animals must be promptly reported to the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA). This government body investigates cases and enforces measures such as isolation or culling to control spread.

If you suspect your dog may have been exposed or is exhibiting symptoms, contact your vet immediately for appropriate testing and management.

Can tuberculosis in dogs be treated?

Due to the contagiousness and treatment complexity, canine tuberculosis is challenging to manage. Treatment requires prolonged multi-drug regimens with potential side effects. Moreover, dogs undergoing treatment remain infectious, posing public health concerns.

Therefore, euthanasia is often considered the most responsible action to protect public, animal, and veterinary health. Close contacts, including other pets and humans, should be screened if a dog is confirmed to have TB.

What should UK dog owners remember?

While tuberculosis is uncommon in dogs, awareness and early veterinary involvement are vital. Responsible pet ownership means monitoring your dog’s health, understanding exposure risks, especially if living near farms or with owners who may have TB, and following UK reporting laws.

If you are looking to find a puppy or adopt a dog, choosing a reputable breeder who adheres to health protocols helps keep dogs safe from infectious diseases including TB.