Many pet owners know how important vaccinations are, but not everyone is familiar with every illness they prevent. One condition that sometimes gets overlooked is hepatitis in dogs. If you have ever wondered how do dogs get hepatitis or what causes it, the answer is both simple and serious. It is usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection that spreads easily between animals, especially in shared spaces like kennels, parks, or doggy daycares.

What is Hepatitis in Dogs

Hepatitis in dogs is an inflammation of their liver. The most well-known type is infectious canine hepatitis, caused by canine adenovirus type 1 (CAV-1). It mainly affects the one organ but can also impact others like the kidneys, eyes, and lungs. There is also a non-infectious form of hepatitis that can be caused by certain medications, toxins, or autoimmune responses, but the viral type is the one that spreads from dog to dog.

Dogs with hepatitis may not show symptoms right away, which is why it sometimes goes undetected until it becomes more serious. Some early signs to look out for include tiredness, loss of appetite, fever, vomiting, or a swollen belly. In more advanced cases, jaundice can occur, which causes a yellow tint in the eyes or gums. A dog may also show signs of discomfort when touched near the belly, which is where the liver is located.

What Causes Hepatitis in Dogs

The most common cause of canine hepatitis is contact with infected bodily fluids. The virus is often found in urine, feces, blood, or saliva. This means that dogs can contract it by sniffing or licking contaminated surfaces or objects, or through close contact with other infected dogs. In crowded or unclean environments, the risk of transmission increases. The virus can also survive in the environment for a long time, making it more difficult to control without proper cleaning and disinfection.

Puppies and unvaccinated dogs are especially vulnerable. That is why vaccination is strongly recommended as part of routine vet care. The vaccine for canine adenovirus is typically included in standard puppy shots and yearly boosters. While not all forms of hepatitis are preventable, the most contagious type is, and protecting your pet early on can prevent a lot of stress and expense later.

How to Prevent it

Keeping your dog healthy starts with good hygiene, regular vet visits, and vaccination. If your dog is spending time around other animals, make sure they are up to date on their shots. Clean up after your pet and avoid letting them drink from shared water bowls or sniff around unknown waste. If you notice signs like lethargy, vomiting, or yellowing eyes, it is worth getting them checked out quickly. Catching the illness early makes a big difference in how well they respond to treatment.

Conclusion

Exposure to infected fluids or contaminated environments can lead to dogs getting a nasty case of hepatitis. The causes are often preventable, and knowing what to look out for can help keep your pet safe. Vaccination, proper hygiene, and awareness are key. With the right care, most dogs can live long and healthy lives free from this serious condition.