Ehrlichiosis in Dogs: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Prevention
Doberman Pinscher puppies and German Shepherd puppies are among breeds more vulnerable to severe ehrlichiosis, a serious tick-borne infection caused by Ehrlichia bacteria. This infection invades and destroys white blood cells, resulting in systemic illness that demands timely veterinary care.
Recognising the Symptoms of Ehrlichiosis
Ehrlichiosis progresses through stages, each with distinct clinical signs appearing 1-3 weeks after a tick bite:
Acute Stage
- Enlarged lymph nodes
- Lethargy and weakness
- Depression or behavioural changes
- Loss of appetite
- Difficulty breathing
- Swollen limbs
Some dogs may harbour the infection without symptoms for months or years, making vigilance essential.
Chronic Stage
- Unusual bleeding episodes, such as persistent nose bleeds
- Severe weight loss
- Fever
- Painful, swollen joints
- Lack of coordination or neurological signs including head tilt, seizures, or paralysis
- Eye pain
- Anaemia and kidney failure
How Vets Diagnose the Infection
Diagnosis requires a thorough approach. Share your dog's medical history and any recent symptoms with the vet. Expect these tests to be recommended:
- Complete blood count to assess white and red blood cells and platelets
- Biochemistry profile to evaluate organ function
- Urinalysis to detect kidney inflammation markers
- PCR test to detect Ehrlichia DNA
Vets also check for complications such as eye haemorrhages, lung inflammation, enlarged spleen, and central nervous system inflammation.
Treatment and What to Expect
Treatment primarily involves antibiotics, most commonly doxycycline, to eradicate the bacteria. Supportive care may include hospitalisation, fluid therapy, and blood transfusions in severe cases. Managing complications such as anaemia and bleeding disorders is critical.
Living with and Monitoring Your Dog
Post-treatment, keep your dog calm and restrict exercise. Promptly return to the vet if bleeding occurs or symptoms recur, as the bacteria can persist and cause relapse. With early diagnosis and proper treatment, many dogs recover well.
Preventing Ehrlichiosis: Tick Control Is Key
The best defence against ehrlichiosis is effective tick prevention. Use vet-prescribed tick control products regularly and check your dog thoroughly after outdoor excursions. Early tick removal significantly reduces infection risk.
