Canine Brucellosis (B. canis)

Infectious DiseaseBacteriaCanineNew

Key Points

Canine brucellosis is a contagious, lifelong infection of dogs, primarily caused by Brucella canis bacteria
While many infections are subclinical, potential signs include late-stage abortion, vulval discharge and return to oestrus in bitches as well as scrotal / testicular swelling, epididymitis and infertility in males
- Infection can spread to other areas of the body, most notably causing discospondylitis and uveitis
A screening test followed by a second confirmatory test is the recommended diagnostic approach
- Intermittent bacteraemia makes definitive diagnosis challenging
Euthanasia is recommended in most cases as there is no reliable way to eliminate infection
- Despite prolonged antibiotic therapy, infected dogs remain infectious and disease can recur at anytime throughout their life
It is ZOONOTIC and reportable in some regions

Differential Diagnoses

Canine herpesvirus-1 (CHV-1)
Bacterial metritis
Testicular neoplasia
Bacterial prostatitis

Educational content only. This factsheet is for general veterinary education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Not for use in an emergency — contact a veterinarian or emergency service. Full disclaimer →