Lyme disease in dogs is a major concern for pet owners, especially in areas where ticks are prevalent. This bacterial infection can cause joint pain, fever, lethargy, and, in some cases, long-term health issues if left untreated. Since ticks that carry Lyme disease can be found in wooded areas, tall grass, and even backyards, understanding how to prevent and treat this condition is essential for keeping your dog healthy.
In this guide, we’re going to cover everything you need to know to protect your furry friend, including:
- The signs of Lyme disease in dogs
- How to test for Lyme disease in dogs
- Options for treatment for Lyme disease in dogs
- Key steps for the prevention of Lyme disease in dogs
What is Lyme Disease in Dogs?
Lyme disease in dogs is a serious bacterial infection caused by Borrelia burgdorferi, a bacteria transmitted through tick bites. This disease can lead to a range of health issues, from mild discomfort to long-term complications affecting the joints, kidneys, and nervous system.
Fortunately, with early detection and proper treatment, most dogs recover well. Understanding the symptoms, treatment, and prevention of Lyme disease in dogs is key to keeping your pet safe and healthy.
How Do Dogs Get Lyme Disease?
Dogs contract Lyme disease when they are bitten by an infected tick. The most common carriers are Ixodes scapularis and Ixodes pacificus, also known as black-legged or deer ticks. Ticks that carry Lyme disease must remain attached to a dog for 24-48 hours to transmit the bacteria, making early tick removal crucial in preventing infection.
What Causes Lyme Disease?
Lyme disease is caused by the Borrelia burgdorferi infection in dogs. Once the bacteria enter a dog’s bloodstream through a tick bite, they spread throughout the body, leading to inflammation, joint pain, and other health complications.
How Common is Lyme Disease in Dogs?
Canine Lyme disease is most common in regions with high tick populations, such as the Northeast, Midwest, and Pacific Coast of the United States. However, cases have been reported in almost every state. The risk increases for dogs that spend time in wooded areas, grassy fields, or places where ticks thrive.
Signs and Symptoms of Lyme Disease in Dogs
Recognizing the signs of Lyme disease in dogs early can lead to a faster recovery. Symptoms may vary depending on how long the infection has been present.
Early Symptoms of Lyme Disease in Dogs
What are the first signs of Lyme disease in dogs? In many cases, your dog will simply seem like they feel generally unwell – but the following symptoms are definite red flags:
- Fever
- Lethargy or reluctance to move
- Loss of appetite
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Mild joint stiffness
Advanced Symptoms: When Lyme Disease Gets Worse
If left untreated, canine Lyme disease can progress to more severe symptoms, including:
- Persistent joint pain and swelling
- Difficulty walking or limping that shifts from one leg to another
- Kidney damage, which can lead to excessive thirst and urination
- Heart or nervous system complications in rare cases
Can Lyme Disease Cause Permanent Damage in Dogs?
Yes, if Lyme disease is not diagnosed and treated early, it can lead to long-term effects such as chronic arthritis or kidney disease. Proper veterinary treatment for Lyme disease is essential in preventing these complications.
How Long Does It Take for Symptoms to Appear?
One of the most common questions we receive is, “How long does Lyme disease take to show symptoms in dogs?” The incubation period varies, but most dogs develop symptoms two to five months after being bitten by an infected tick.
Diagnosing Lyme Disease in Dogs
Early detection of Lyme disease is key to ensuring the best-possible outcome for your dog, and to help alleviate symptoms and get them on the road to recovery. Because symptoms can be subtle or mimic other illnesses, proper testing is necessary for an accurate diagnosis. Veterinarians use a combination of physical examinations, blood tests, and lab work to confirm the presence of Lyme disease and determine the best course of action.
How Vets Test for Lyme Disease
Vets use blood tests to detect antibodies produced in response to Borrelia burgdorferi. If a dog tests positive, further testing may be needed to assess the infection’s severity.
Understanding Lyme Disease Blood Tests
Common tests include:
- C6 Antibody Test – Detects antibodies against Lyme disease bacteria
- Quantitative C6 Test – Measures antibody levels to determine treatment needs
- Urinalysis and Bloodwork – Evaluates kidney function and overall health
Can Lyme Disease Be Misdiagnosed in Dogs?
Yes, since Lyme disease symptoms can mimic other dog tick-borne diseases, additional testing may be required to confirm the diagnosis.
How to Treat Lyme Disease in Dogs
The best Lyme disease treatment for dogs is one provided by a veterinary professional, with a treatment plan based on your pet’s specific condition and needs. It is important to seek treatment as soon as possible, so your pet can avoid the negative long-term effects of Lyme disease in dogs.
Common Antibiotics Used for Lyme Disease Treatment
Veterinary treatment for Lyme disease typically includes a course of antibiotics.
The most common antibiotic is Doxycycline for Lyme disease in dogs, which is typically prescribed for three to four weeks.
How Long Does Treatment Take?
Most dogs respond to antibiotics within a few days, but treatment for Lyme disease in dogs typically lasts at least four weeks to fully eliminate the infection.
Can Lyme Disease Come Back After Treatment?
While antibiotics clear the active infection, some dogs may experience recurring joint pain due to lingering inflammation.
Preventing Lyme Disease in Dogs
The Best Flea and Tick Preventatives
The best tick prevention for Lyme disease in dogs includes topical treatments, oral medications, and tick collars. Speak to your vet to determine the right option for your pet.
Is There a Lyme Disease Vaccine for Dogs?
Yes, a Lyme disease vaccine for dogs is available, but it’s recommended primarily for dogs in high-risk areas.
How to Check Your Dog for Ticks
Regular tick checks can prevent infection. Run your fingers through your dog’s fur, feeling for small bumps, especially around the ears, neck, and legs.
Natural Ways to Reduce Tick Exposure
- Keep grass short in your yard
- Avoid tall grass and wooded areas
- Use pet-safe essential oils like lemon eucalyptus
When to See a Vet for Lyme Disease in Dogs
Knowing when to seek veterinary care for Lyme disease is crucial for your dog’s health. If you suspect your pet has been exposed to ticks or notice any symptoms like joint pain, fever, or fatigue, it’s best to consult a veterinarian as soon as possible. Early treatment can prevent more severe complications, so understanding the warning signs and acting promptly can make a big difference in your dog’s recovery.
What to Do If You Find a Tick on Your Dog
Remove it using fine-tipped tweezers, pulling straight out without twisting. After removal, clean the bite area with antiseptic and wash your hands thoroughly. Keep the tick in a sealed container in case your vet needs to test it for Lyme disease or other infections.
Can Lyme Disease Be Fatal in Dogs?
While rare, untreated Lyme disease can lead to kidney failure, which can be fatal. In severe cases, Lyme disease can also cause heart issues and neurological damage, making early detection and treatment essential.
How Lyme Disease Affects Senior Dogs vs. Young Dogs
Senior dogs may experience more severe symptoms and longer recovery times compared to younger dogs. Older dogs with weakened immune systems are also more prone to developing chronic joint pain and kidney complications from Lyme disease, requiring ongoing veterinary care.
FAQs About Lyme Disease in Dogs
How Do I Remove a Tick from My Dog?
Use tweezers to grip the tick close to the skin and pull straight out.
Can Dogs Transmit Lyme Disease to Humans?
Dogs themselves do not directly spread Lyme disease to humans, but infected ticks on dogs can bite people.
What Happens if Lyme Disease Goes Untreated?
Long-term effects of Lyme disease in dogs include arthritis, kidney damage, and neurological issues.
Can a Dog Get Lyme Disease More Than Once?
Yes, repeated exposure to infected ticks can lead to reinfection.
Do All Dogs with Lyme Disease Show Symptoms?
No, some dogs may carry the bacteria without showing any outward signs.
How Much Does Lyme Disease Treatment Cost?
Treatment costs vary but typically range from $200 to $800, depending on the severity of the disease.
Can Lyme Disease Cause Long-Term Joint Problems?
Does Lyme disease cause joint pain in dogs? Absolutely – chronic arthritis is a common complication.
What Are the First Signs that Lyme Disease is Getting Worse?
Increased joint swelling, limping, and kidney issues are signs that the disease is progressing.
Can Lyme Disease in Dogs Be Cured?
While there is no absolute cure for Lyme disease, it can be effectively managed with antibiotics and supportive care. Most dogs recover well with timely treatment, but some may experience lingering joint pain or other symptoms that require ongoing management.
How Will I Know if My Dog has Lyme Disease?
The signs of Lyme in dogs may not appear until several months after the initial tick bite, and, even then, can be difficult to detect and diagnose. Sometimes the signs are fleeting and will often mimic other health conditions. Lyme disease in dogs can vary from mild to severe, but the severe cases can lead to kidney failure, heart disease, nervous system complications, and even death.
Watch your dog for:
- Recurrent lameness
- Loss of appetite
- Depression
- Fatigue
- Reluctance to move
- Increased urination and thirst
- Difficulty breathing
How Can My Dog Get Lyme?
Lyme disease is vector-borne disease, meaning it is transmitted through the bite of an infected arthropod (mosquito, tick, etc.). When an infected tick bites your dog, the infection spreads to your dog’s tissues.
Lyme disease has been found all over the world, with the exception of Antarctica. In the U.S., it is most common in the upper Midwestern states, the Atlantic seaboard, and the Pacific coastal states.
How is Lyme Treated?
Because Lyme is a bacterial infection, antibiotics will be prescribed, usually for a period of about 4 weeks. In some cases, antibiotic treatment won’t always completely eliminate the bacteria, and symptoms could return.
How Can I Prevent My Dog from Getting Lyme?
Like with many medical conditions, prevention is key. Your dog should be on a regular flea/tick preventive. There is also a Lyme vaccine available.
Avoid environments where ticks thrive, including tall grassy areas. Regularly check your dog for ticks, and, if you find one, remove it by hand.
Find Your Nearest Pet Urgent Care for Lyme Disease in Dogs
Lyme disease in dogs is a serious but manageable condition with early detection and proper care. If you suspect Lyme disease, consult a trusted vet to make sure your pet receives the best care possible.
For same-day urgent care and walk-in appointments, find your nearest UrgentVet today.
Article Updated: April 3, 2025
Image Credit: Iryna Kalamurza / Shutterstock