Systemic Lupus Erythematosus in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) in dogs is a rare but serious autoimmune disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells, tissues, and organs. This overactive immune response causes inflammation and damage across multiple body systems, rather than being limited to one area.

Breeds Prone to Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Although SLE is uncommon, some breeds appear more predisposed, including Border Collies, Shetland Sheepdogs, German Shepherds, Afghan Hounds, Beagles, Old English Sheepdogs, Irish Setters, and Poodles. Responsible breeding is crucial to avoiding passing on this hereditary condition within these lines.

Causes and Hereditary Factors

SLE is considered an autoimmune disorder where the dog's immune system attacks its own body. In some breeds, such as German Shepherds, it has been shown to have hereditary roots. The disease may manifest at any age but typically shows signs around six years old. Environmental factors like ultraviolet light exposure might worsen symptoms, though the exact cause remains unknown to veterinary researchers.

Recognising Symptoms and Types

The symptoms of lupus can vary widely depending on which organs are affected, and may come and go in episodes of flare-ups and remissions. Common signs to watch for include:

• Lethargy and general weakness
• Loss of appetite, sometimes progressing to anorexia
• Recurring fever, particularly during acute phases
• Joint pain, swelling, and shifting lameness
• Muscle wastage and discomfort
• Skin changes such as hair loss, lesions, ulcers around mouth, nostrils and anus, and de-pigmentation
• Swollen lymph nodes (lymphadenopathy)
• Enlargement of liver or spleen (hepatosplenomegaly) due to organ inflammation
• Blood abnormalities like anaemia from immune attack on blood cells

Diagnosis Process

If SLE is suspected, your vet will perform a thorough physical examination and collect a detailed health history. Diagnostic tests include:

• Blood panel testing to evaluate red and white cell counts and detect antibody presence
• Urine analysis to assess kidney function
• Screening for inflammation in joints, skin, kidneys, and blood components

Establishing whether symptoms appeared abruptly or developed gradually helps shape diagnosis and treatment plans.

Treatment Approaches

There is no cure for SLE, but treatments exist to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Depending on severity, your dog may require hospitalisation, especially if blood cells are severely affected.

Home care under vet guidance often involves strict rest, especially during joint pain flare-ups, sometimes requiring movement restriction with a crate. Avoiding direct sunlight helps reduce skin lesions and flare-ups, so short early morning or late evening walks are recommended.

Kidney involvement may mean a specialized, protein-restricted diet prescribed by your vet. Immunosuppressive drugs like corticosteroids help reduce immune system overactivity and inflammation, but long-term management requires routine vet check-ups to monitor health and medication side-effects.

Can Systemic Lupus Be Prevented?

Preventing SLE focuses mainly on responsible breeding practices by ensuring dogs with the condition are not bred. Early diagnosis and management of symptoms can greatly improve the outlook for affected dogs.

Living with a Dog Diagnosed with SLE

Living with a dog that has SLE requires dedication to long-term veterinary care and monitoring for side effects of treatment. Regular check-ups, often weekly at first, ensure the best possible quality of life. Though unpredictable, many dogs live comfortably with attentive management.

FAQs

Is Systemic Lupus Erythematosus hereditary in dogs?

Quick Answer: Yes, SLE can be hereditary, especially in certain breeds such as German Shepherds and Collies.

Detailed research shows hereditary transmission in some dog lines, making it essential to avoid breeding dogs diagnosed with SLE to prevent passing on the disease.

How is lupus diagnosed in dogs?

Quick Answer: Diagnosis involves clinical signs evaluation, blood and urine tests, and sometimes biopsies to exclude other conditions.

Your vet will perform comprehensive blood panels to detect immune system abnormalities and assess organ function, along with history review and physical examination.

What treatments are available?

Quick Answer: Treatments include immunosuppressive drugs, corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, supportive care, and symptom management.

Management aims for reducing immune attacks on the body, controlling inflammation, and maintaining organ health, often requiring lifelong care and regular vet visits.

What symptoms does SLE cause in dogs?

Quick Answer: Symptoms include fever, lethargy, joint pain, skin lesions, hair loss, swollen lymph nodes, and kidney problems.

The symptoms can affect multiple organs and vary in severity and progression, often involving flare and remission phases requiring careful observation.

Where can I find reputable breeders for predisposed breeds?

For those interested in adding breeds such as German Shepherd or Border Collie puppies responsibly, always look for reputable breeders who follow ethical breeding practices to reduce hereditary disease risks.

By thoroughly researching breeders and ensuring health testing, you help promote responsible pet ownership and reduce hereditary health concerns.