9 Dog Diseases You Can Prevent

Last updated: February 21, 2017

You want to keep your dogs healthy. And part of overall health is prevention.

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) recommends creating a core vaccine program for your dog. It should include vaccines that protect against some of the most highly infectious and deadly diseases. The AVMA says there is not a one-size-fits-all protocol for vaccination so it's important to work with your personal veterinarian to figure out what your pets need.

We've put together a list of some of the most devastating diseases that are preventable through vaccination:

Canine Distemper

Transmitted by direct or indirect contact with the discharges from an infected dog's eyes, nose or urine. Widespread, highly contagious and usually deadly, even among older dogs. A primary killer of puppies. Read Distemper in Dogs for more information.

Canine Adenovirus Type 1 & 2

Hepatitis is caused by Adenovirus type-1 and attacks the liver. Transmitted through contact with objects contaminated by urine, saliva and feces. Early signs are similar to distemper. Adenovirus type-2 is a respiratory infection that may be associated with kennel cough.

Canine Parainfluenza

Mild respiratory tract infection transmitted through contact with nasal secretions. Infection is more severe in young puppies.

Canine Parvovirus

Highly resistant virus withstands extreme temperature changes and exposure to most disinfectants. May cause severe diarrhea and vomiting. A highly contagious disease and especially dangerous for puppies. Read Parvo in Dogs and Puppies for more information.

Canine Coronavirus

A highly contagious, but mild and self-limiting intestinal disease that occasionally will cause death. Causes vomiting and diarrhea in dogs of all ages, but is seen most often in young puppies. Learn more in the article Coronavirus in Dogs.

Canine Leptospirosis

Lepto is an infectious bacterial disease transmitted by contact with infected urine from rodents and other animals. Can be spread to humans as well as other animals and may cause permanent kidney damage. It's recommended to use a 4-way canine leptospirosis vaccine. Read Leptospirosis in Dogs for more information.

Canine Bordetella Bronchiseptica (Kennel Cough)

A bacterial respiratory tract infection transmitted by nasal and oral secretions. Harsh, non-productive cough may last one to three weeks. Bordetella infections can occur alone or in combination with other respiratory problems. Read Kennel Cough Symptoms and Treatment for more information.

Canine Borreliosis (Lyme Disease)

Bacterial infection spread by a bite from an infected tick. Symptoms include fever, lethargy and muscle stiffness. Lameness can occur in more severe cases. Read Lyme Disease in Dogs for more information.

Rabies

The most feared disease and is almost always fatal. Attacks the brain and central nervous system. Transmitted to humans through a bite or scratch by an infected animal. Read Rabies in Dogs and Cats for more information.

Which Shots Do Dogs Need?

Not sure which vaccinations your dog needs? Use Revival's Vaccine Finder to get help choosing the best vaccinations for your dog. Want help developing a plan for prevention? Looking for a treatment solution? Call our Pet Care Pros at 800.786.4751. They are expertly trained to answer any and all of your pet health questions.

Shelley Hexom is Revival's Content Manager and helps develop educational pet health resources. A three-time Emmy Award-winning news anchor, Shelley works with Revival's Director of Veterinary Services, Dr. Marty Greer, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, to help create useful and easy-to-understand articles, videos, and webinars. Shelley received her bachelor's degree in Mass Communications from Winona State University in 2002. As a pet owner, Shelley enjoys time with her Boxer mix, Sally. Shelley has been part of the Revival Paw Squad since 2016.