Lyme disease in dogs doesn’t have to be a life sentence, many dogs can lead normal, happy lives with early diagnosis and prompt treatment. When caught in time, most dogs respond well to antibiotics and recover quickly.
However, untreated Lyme disease can lead to serious complications like Lyme nephritis, a life-threatening condition affecting the kidneys.
For dogs with Lyme nephritis, the outlook is more challenging, with survival ranging from weeks to months without treatment. Fortunately, with proper care, even these cases can see improved outcomes. It’s also important to note that Lyme disease may cause occasional flare-ups after treatment, requiring ongoing management to keep symptoms under control.
Lyme disease is most commonly diagnosed in areas like the Midwest, Northeast, Southeast, and West, especially during warmer months. Understanding the risks, symptoms, and importance of early treatment is key to giving your dog the best chance at a long and healthy life.
Lyme disease is something most pet parents have heard and worry about. By knowing a little more about this disease, we can help our pets get the help they need on time and increase the chances of a thorough recovery.
In this article, we’ll provide short answers to questions such as:
- How does a dog act with Lyme disease?
- Is it rare for a dog to get Lyme disease?
- What are the 3 stages of Lyme disease?
- What happens if Lyme goes untreated in dogs?
- Does Lyme disease shorten life expectancy in dogs?
- Can a dog live a good life with Lyme disease?
We’ll also discuss which parts of your dog’s body Lyme disease affects, and how it can change their behavior.
Disclaimer: Please refer to the information in this article as a guide only. If you want specific information tailored to your pet’s condition, contact your veterinarian.
What Is Lyme Disease in Dogs?
Lyme disease is a bacterial infection caused by Borrelia burgdorferi, which is transmitted to dogs through the bite of an infected tick. It’s one of the most common tick-borne illnesses, and while it might sound scary, it’s manageable with early detection and proper care.
The bacteria can spread through your dog’s bloodstream, potentially causing symptoms like joint pain, fever, lethargy, and in severe cases, kidney complications. Not every dog bitten by an infected tick will develop Lyme disease, but knowing the signs and acting quickly if symptoms appear can make a big difference.
Protecting your dog with tick prevention and regular check-ups is the best way to keep Lyme disease at bay. If you live in or visit tick-heavy areas, like forests or grassy fields, staying informed about Lyme disease can help you keep your furry friend happy and healthy.
How Lyme Disease Affects a Dog’s Life Expectancy
Lyme disease can have a wide range of impacts on a dog’s life expectancy, depending on how quickly it is diagnosed and treated. In most cases, dogs that receive prompt treatment with antibiotics go on to live normal, healthy lives. However, if left untreated, Lyme disease can lead to severe complications, such as Lyme nephritis: a condition that causes kidney inflammation and can be life-threatening.
The prognosis for dogs with Lyme nephritis is more serious, with survival often measured in weeks without treatment. Even with medical care, managing the disease can be challenging. Additionally, some dogs may experience flare-ups after treatment, requiring ongoing attention and care to keep symptoms at bay.
While the disease can sound alarming, early detection and a proactive approach make all the difference. Regular vet check-ups and prompt action at the first sign of symptoms are the best ways to ensure your dog enjoys a long, happy life despite a Lyme disease diagnosis.
Diagnosis and Testing for Lyme Disease
Diagnosing Lyme disease in dogs involves a combination of clinical evaluation, history of tick exposure, and specialized testing. Veterinarians rely on specific tests to confirm the presence of Lyme bacteria and assess the impact on a dog’s health.
One of the most commonly used tests is the Idexx SNAP 4Dx Test, which detects antibodies to Lyme bacteria, as well as other vector-borne agents like anaplasma and ehrlichia. Additional tests, such as the QC6 Test and Serum ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay), are used to quantify antibodies or confirm infection.
In cases where Lyme disease has progressed, further diagnostics may include urine tests to evaluate kidney function, joint fluid analysis for inflammation, or advanced imaging to check for long-term damage. These tools help veterinarians tailor a treatment plan based on the severity of the disease.
Timely diagnosis is critical, as untreated Lyme disease can lead to complications like Lyme nephritis or joint issues. By leveraging advanced diagnostic techniques, veterinarians can ensure effective treatment and better outcomes for affected dogs.
How does a dog act with Lyme disease?
If a dog has Lyme disease, it may show some of the following symptoms (source):
- Decreased appetite.
- Increased temperature.
- Lethargy (not as active as usual).
- Problems with their joints.
Sometimes, Lyme disease can also affect other parts of your dog’s body, such as their kidneys, joints, and nervous system (we’ll talk more about that later).
It’s good to be aware that it can take months for the symptoms of Lyme disease to develop, and it’s also a disease that can affect humans. However, this doesn’t mean you can catch it directly from your dog.
Humans become infected by being bitten by a tick with the bacteria, just like dogs do.
If you suspect that there is something wrong with your pet’s health it’s best to take them to your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment. Similarly, if a tick has recently bitten you and are worried about it, contact your doctor.
Treatment Options for Lyme Disease in Dogs
When it comes to treating Lyme disease in dogs, early intervention is key. The most common treatment is a course of antibiotics, typically doxycycline, which effectively targets the bacteria causing the infection. Most dogs respond well to this treatment, showing improvement within just a few days.
For cases with more severe symptoms or complications, such as Lyme nephritis, additional treatments may include medications to support kidney function, anti-inflammatory drugs, or hospitalization to manage symptoms like dehydration or pain. It’s also essential to monitor your dog closely after treatment, as some may experience flare-ups that require additional care.
Your veterinarian will create a tailored treatment plan based on your dog’s specific needs, ensuring the best chance for recovery. Regular follow-ups and preventive measures, like tick control, are equally important to keep your furry friend healthy and Lyme-free.
Tips for Managing a Dog with Lyme Disease
Caring for a dog with Lyme disease requires patience, consistency, and plenty of love. Start by following your veterinarian’s treatment plan closely, including administering prescribed antibiotics and any additional medications. Regular check-ups are essential to monitor your dog’s progress and catch any signs of complications early.
Provide a comfortable environment at home to help your dog rest and recover. A cozy bed and a stress-free routine can make a big difference in their healing process. Keep an eye out for flare-ups or symptoms like lethargy, joint pain, or changes in appetite, and report them to your vet immediately.
To prevent reinfection or worsening symptoms, use year-round tick prevention treatments and regularly check your dog for ticks, especially after outdoor adventures. With proper care, many dogs with Lyme disease can live happy, active lives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it rare for a dog to get Lyme disease?
The possibility for your dog to become infected with the bacteria that causes Lyme disease depends on their exposure to the tick species that carries it.
Veterinarians always recommend treating your pets for both endoparasites (such as worms) and ectoparasites (for example fleas and ticks).
It’s always better to try to prevent diseases rather than cure them, and when it comes to diseases associated with parasites, there are a range of products to help your pet.
Another thing you can do to help reduce the chances of your dog getting Lyme disease is to restrict their access to places where ticks live, such as areas with long grass or bushes.
It’s also important to check your dog regularly for ticks and remove them correctly.
How long does it take for Lyme disease to affect a dog’s kidneys?
In some cases, Lyme disease can cause problems with your dog’s kidneys. Not much is known about how or why this happens. (source)
What are the 3 stages of Lyme disease in dogs?
Veterinarians often refer to Lyme disease as having 3 stages, which we’ll explain below (source).
After a bite from a tick that carries the bacteria, a dog is considered to be in the ‘localized’ stage. This means that the bacteria is just in one area and hasn’t had the time to spread yet.
The next stage is called ‘early disseminated’ Lyme disease and is when the bacteria has had enough time to move to different areas of a dog’s body using their blood.
The last stage is the ‘late disseminated’ stage which is when the bacteria have had enough time to move everywhere in the body.
Do dogs sleep a lot with Lyme disease?
One of the symptoms that can be associated with Lyme disease is lethargy, which refers to decreased activity in pets.
Whether your pet can be considered lethargic depends on its character. For those who are usually very active, it can be easier to spot.Meanwhile, for our furry friends who tend to sleep most of the day anyway, it can be more difficult to notice—especially since certain sleeping positions can hint at underlying health issues, such as those caused by illness.
What happens if Lyme goes untreated in dogs?
If Lyme disease is not treated in dogs, it can progress to involve parts of your dog’s body such as the heart, nervous system, and kidneys (source).
As with most diseases, the longer it is allowed to progress, the more serious it becomes and the more it affects your pet’s quality of life.
It’s always best to seek veterinary advice early on, rather than waiting until your dog’s condition is more serious. Early diagnosis and treatment often improve the chances of recovery from curable diseases.
Does Lyme disease shorten life expectancy in dogs?
If untreated, or diagnosed too late, sadly, Lyme disease and its associated symptoms, can decrease your dog’s life expectancy.
As with all conditions, seeking veterinary advice early on drastically increases the chances of your pet making a thorough recovery.
Can a dog live a good life with Lyme disease?
If diagnosed and treatment is started as soon as possible, then there are a few things that can be done to help your dog live a good life including:
- Antibiotics.
- Medicines to relieve symptoms such as pain.
- Immune-targeted medicine in cases where the immune system is involved.
As we mentioned earlier, there are a few things you can do to reduce the chances of your pet being affected by diseases involving insects such as ticks. You can read more about this topic in our articles Tick Talk – strategies for Preventing and Removing Ticks and Flea and Tick Prevention Tips – recommendations for Dog Owners.
Is Lyme disease fatal in dogs?
Lyme disease is rarely fatal in dogs when treated early, but complications like kidney failure can be life-threatening.
Can dogs recover fully from Lyme disease?
Yes, with prompt treatment, most dogs recover fully and live normal, healthy lives.
Does Lyme disease ever go away completely?
Treatment eliminates symptoms, but some bacteria may remain dormant and cause flare-ups later.
How much does Lyme disease treatment for dogs cost?
Treatment typically costs between $200 and $500, depending on severity and the required tests or medications.
What is the worst outcome of Lyme disease in dogs?
The worst outcome is kidney failure (Lyme nephritis), which can be life-threatening without treatment.
Can a dog’s body fight off Lyme disease naturally?
No, Lyme disease requires antibiotics to eliminate the infection and manage symptoms effectively.
Can Lyme disease cause kidney failure in dogs?
Yes, in severe cases, Lyme disease can lead to kidney failure, which is a serious and potentially fatal complication.
What are the five early signs of Lyme disease in dogs?
- Lethargy
- Fever
- Swollen joints
- Lameness
- Loss of appetite
Treatment and Recovery of Lyme Disease in Dogs: A Comprehensive Guide
Here’s a concise and informative list to help you understand the treatment and recovery process of Lyme disease in dogs:
Early Detection is Key: The earlier Lyme disease is caught and treated, the better chance your dog has at responding to treatment, which typically involves antibiotics and pain management medication.
Treatment Options: Lyme disease is generally treated with the antibiotic doxycycline, but other treatments may be needed, especially if your dog has another tick-borne disease in addition to Lyme.
Prolonged Antibiotic Therapy: Treatment may require longer antibiotic therapy, pain management, and supportive care, especially in advanced cases.
Lyme Satisfaction Guarantee: Look for products with a guarantee that covers up to $5,000 of diagnostics and treatments for Lyme disease, and up to $10,000 if your dog is using flea and tick products and is up to date on the Lyme vaccine.
Regular Prevention: Use flea and tick products regularly, often monthly, to be effective over the course of your dog’s life and reduce the risk of Lyme disease.
Support and Resources: Organizations offer valuable information, resources, and support for pet owners and those affected by Lyme disease, and you can contribute to their efforts by donating to support their cause.
Clinical Trials and Research: Participate in clinical trials to play an important role in advancing the understanding of Lyme and other tick-borne illnesses and aid in the discovery of new or improved treatments.
Peer-to-Peer Mentor Program: Take advantage of mentor programs that provide guidance and support for pet owners navigating the challenges of Lyme disease treatment and recovery.
Conclusion
Lyme disease can be a pretty daunting topic, however, we hope that after reading this article, you have the information you need to enable you to make decisions to help your pet live as happily and healthily as possible.
You can read more about how to help your dog be as happy and healthy as possible in our articles:
What to Do if Dogs Are Stung by Bees?
Home Remedies for a Dog Constantly Scratching and Biting Itself
Fast and Effective Ways to Get Rid of Dog Lice at Home
Unhealthy Dog Tongue
My Vet Told Me to Give My Dog Paracetamol – Is It Safe?
Charlotte qualified as a veterinarian in 2023 and has been working as a writer for several years helping pet parents understand how to help their pets live happy healthy lives whilst pursuing her interests in wildlife conservation.
She enjoys traveling and has undertaken positions in Belgium, Spain, Austria, Germany, and the Galapagos and has a 15-year-old rescue dog called Chiki.
