What is the most common infectious disease found in dogs?

The most common infectious disease found in dogs is Canine Distemper. Distemper is a highly contagious viral illness that affects a dog's respiratory, gastrointestinal, and central nervous systems. It is particularly prevalent in unvaccinated dogs and can be fatal. The virus is spread through respiratory secretions, and once it infects a dog, it can lead to symptoms such as fever, coughing, vomiting, and neurological signs.

Vaccination programs have significantly reduced the incidence of distemper, yet it remains a crucial concern due to its high mortality rate and the potential for outbreaks, especially in areas with low vaccination rates. Understanding the significance of distemper is essential for dog owners and veterinarians to prevent this devastating disease and ensure the health and safety of the canine population.

While parvovirus, canine influenza, and leptospirosis are also serious infectious diseases in dogs and can be prevalent in certain contexts, distemper's widespread impact and the critical role of vaccination in managing its risk make it the most common infectious disease.