Ehrlichiosis in Dogs: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Prevention
Doberman Pinscher puppies and German Shepherd puppies are among dog breeds more prone to severe ehrlichiosis, a serious tick-transmitted infection caused by Ehrlichia bacteria. This disease attacks and destroys white blood cells, leading to widespread illness that demands prompt care from a veterinarian.
Identifying Symptoms of Ehrlichiosis
Ehrlichiosis manifests in stages, with various signs appearing typically one to three weeks after a tick bite:
Acute Stage
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Fatigue and weakness
- Changes in behavior or depressive signs
- Loss of appetite
- Breathing difficulties
- Swelling, especially in limbs
Some dogs may carry the infection asymptomatically for months or even years, so constant monitoring is crucial.
Chronic Stage
- Unusual bleeding such as frequent nosebleeds
- Noticeable and significant weight loss
- Fever
- Painful swollen joints
- Neurological issues including loss of coordination, seizures, or paralysis
- Eye discomfort or pain
- Anemia and potential kidney failure
How Veterinarians Diagnose Ehrlichiosis
The diagnostic process involves a combination of medical history review and specific lab tests. Be sure to inform your veterinarian about any recent symptoms or tick exposure. Common tests recommended include:
- Complete blood count (CBC) to evaluate the numbers and condition of white and red blood cells and platelets
- Biochemical tests to assess organ functions
- Urinalysis to identify signs of kidney issues
- PCR (polymerase chain reaction) testing to detect Ehrlichia DNA in the bloodstream
Veterinarians may also examine the dog for complications such as hemorrhages in the eyes, lung inflammation, an enlarged spleen, or nervous system inflammation.
Treatment and Recovery Expectations
Antibiotic therapy, primarily using doxycycline, is the cornerstone of ehrlichiosis treatment. In serious cases, dogs may require hospitalization, intravenous fluids, and even blood transfusions. Managing symptoms like anemia and bleeding problems is critical to recovery.
Ongoing Care and Monitoring Post-Treatment
Following treatment, keep your dog calm and limit physical activity. Watch carefully for any recurring symptoms or unusual bleeding and consult your veterinarian promptly if these occur, as the infection can sometimes persist and relapse. With timely diagnosis and proper management, many dogs bounce back successfully.
Preventing Ehrlichiosis: Effective Tick Prevention Strategies
The most crucial step to prevent ehrlichiosis is diligent tick control. Use products prescribed or recommended by your veterinarian consistently, including oral medications, topical treatments, and tick collars designed specifically for dogs. After outdoor adventures typical in many U.S. regions—particularly in grassy or wooded areas popular for hiking and camping—carefully inspect your pet for ticks and remove them swiftly. Early tick removal drastically lowers the risk of infection.
For example, in southern U.S. states where the brown dog tick (Rhipicephalus sanguineus) thrives year-round, pet owners should be extra vigilant. In northern areas, ticks might be seasonal but still pose a risk during warmer months. Using tick prevention products year-round is considered best practice across many parts of the country.
