Canine Distemper in Dogs

Canine distemper is a highly contagious virus that affects the respiratory, digestive and nervous systems of several species of wildlife, including coyotes, wolves, foxes, skunks and wild cats, as well as domestic dogs and puppies. 

If infected, dogs can experience symptoms similar to the common cold in humans, including runny noses, coughing, fevers and nasal discharge. Unlike a cold, however, this virus can also affect the stomach and eyes,  and create disturbances in the nerves resulting in twitches, convulsions or seizures. Often incorrectly cited as a cause of kennel cough, canine distemper is a much more serious condition that needs immediate treatment.

Exposure to canine distemper is common in shelters and other areas where there are multiple dogs and puppies. While young dogs who are between 3 to 6 months old are most susceptible, the virus can infect dogs of any age, and sometimes, even vaccinated dogs.

The symptoms of canine distemper can range through multiple areas of the body, which is why diagnosis can be challenging. While signs of distemper generally focus on the gastrointestinal, nervous and respiratory systems, the virus can also affect the eyes. Symptoms include:

• Nasal discharge
• Coughing
• Reduced appetite
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Lethargy
• Fever
• Thick, yellow discharge from eyes
• Inflammation of the eye
• Sudden blindness
• Circling behavior
• Head tilt
• Muscle twitches
• Convulsions
• Jaw chewing
• Salivation
• Seizures
• Paralysis (partial or complete)

The canine distemper virus (CDV) causes canine distemper in dogs and puppies. It can be spread easily through airborne droplets from an infected dog who coughs, sneezes or leaves behind nasal or eye discharge, and can infect a healthy animal up to 20 feet away. The virus continues to be shed by infected dogs for months after the initial infection. Public areas that house multiple dogs are often places where transmission levels are high, such as at boarders or shelters. Previously vaccinated animals can also contract canine distemper. 

Transmission of canine distemper can be through:

• Direct contact with an infected dog or wildlife
• Airborne droplets from the coughing and sneezing of an infected animal
• Exposure to contaminated food bowls, water bowls, toys, bedding, and other equipment
• From mother to unborn puppies through placenta

• Puppies under the age of 4 months
• Unvaccinated puppies and dogs

Canine distemper can be difficult to diagnosis at first, as it is often mistaken for kennel cough, a respiratory condition caused by other viruses. You'll want to note all the various symptoms your dog has been experiencing, as well as their eating and eliminating habits if they have changed. 

Your veterinarian will give your dog a physical exam. They may also run urine, blood or blood marrow tests to find out which virus is causing your dog's symptoms. Your vet may inquire if your dog has been to any public places recently, including shelters, dog parks, groomers, or boarders, or if they have had any direct contact with wildlife or sick animals. All this information can help your veterinarian make a correct diagnosis. 

Having a timeline ready for your veterinarian of when the symptoms began is also going to be beneficial. Be sure and describe all the symptoms you notice in your dog, as many of the signs of canine distemper are shared with other conditions or infections. 

There is no cure for canine distemper, or any direct treatment for the virus that causes it. Instead, treatment aims at supporting the body while the immune system kills the virus. 

In a veterinary hospital, your dog may be given antibiotics to help fight any secondary infections that are common with canine distemper. Fluids are often administered to replace those lost through vomiting, diarrhea and fever to combat dehydration. Other medications can also be prescribed to control vomiting and diarrhea, and to bring down fevers. And lastly, anti-seizure medications can be given to control serious nervous system symptoms, and to prevent seizures.

The timeline of treatment can be different for each dog, and will continue as long as your dog needs supportive care. Additional treatments can be given as needed, and until symptoms have subsided and your veterinarian feels safe sending your dog home. 

Infected and recovering dogs should be isolated from healthy ones to prevent transmission. 

For dogs who only experienced symptoms in their respiratory and digestive systems, recovery rates are good, though some may be at a higher risk for future respiratory issues. Dogs who developed neurological symptoms due to canine distemper have a lowered chance of a full recovery, as neurological symptoms can develop up to 3 months after infection. 

Due to the possibility of ongoing problems, it will be important to continue bringing your dog to your veterinarian for regular checkups. Symptoms for neurological issues can present up to 3 months after exposure and may worsen over time, so it is also important to keep an eye out for any changes and discuss them with your veterinarian. 

Since there is no cure, the best way to protect your dog from canine distemper is by limiting their access to public areas where infected dogs may be. Vaccinations are available, and it is recommended that puppies are vaccinated within the first 4-6 weeks, and continue vaccinations until 14-16 weeks. After your dog has his initial vaccination, boosters can be done every 3 years. If your puppy survives distemper he will be immune for at least 20 months, and possibly for life.