Overview
Lyme disease in dogs is a bacterial infection spread by ticks, and it's more common in the UK than many pet owners realise. This guide explains what Lyme disease is, how to recognise the symptoms, the treatment options available, and how to prevent it, including information on the Lyme disease vaccine for dogs. We also cover the three stages of Lyme disease and answer the question: can Lyme disease in dogs be cured?
What is Lyme disease in dogs?
Lyme disease is a bacterial infection caused by a bacteria called Borrelia burgdorferi. Ticks become infected when they feed on small animals like mice, birds or hedgehogs, which can carry the bacteria without appearing ill. Once infected, ticks can pass Lyme disease on to dogs, humans and other animals when they bite. That’s why tick prevention, and learning how to remove ticks from dogs, really matters. Even a short walk through long grass can carry some risk.
How common is Lyme disease in dogs?
Lyme disease is found across the UK but is especially common in areas with lots of deer or small mammals, such as the south of England and parts of Scotland. While it's not as widespread as in some other countries, the risk is growing due to milder winters and changes in wildlife populations.
Read More: Babesia in dogs: causes, symptoms & treatments
Symptoms of Lyme disease in dogs
Lyme disease can be tricky to diagnose because its symptoms often develop gradually and it may be mistaken for other conditions. But there are some key signs to look out for:
Limping or stiffness can shift from one leg to another and may come and go. It’s caused by inflammation in the joints.
Swollen joints or lymph nodes, particularly near the tick bite or on your dog’s legs.
Your dog might feel unusually warm or seem tired and restless.
Clear change in eating habits or refusing food altogether.
Your dog may seem more tired than usual or not want to walk or play.
Sensitivity to touch, especially around the affected joints or bite area.
In more serious cases, Lyme disease can lead to kidney problems or long-term joint issues. These are rare but highlight why early treatment matters. If you spot any of these symptoms, especially if your dog has recently had a tick, get in touch with your vet. They can run tests and, if necessary, start treatment right away.
What are the 3 stages of Lyme disease in dogs?
Lyme disease tends to develop in three stages, although not all dogs go through them in the same way:
Early localised stage (days to weeks after a bite): Mild symptoms like joint pain, fever, or swollen lymph nodes near the bite.
Early disseminated stage (weeks to months later): The infection may spread, causing more noticeable lameness that shifts between legs, fatigue, and more joint swelling.
Chronic stage (months to years later): If untreated, Lyme disease can lead to long-term joint problems or, rarely, kidney damage.
Most dogs recover well if treatment for Lyme disease is provided.
Lyme disease vaccine for dogs
In the UK, a Lyme disease vaccine is available, but it’s not routinely given to all dogs. Vets usually recommend it for pets who live in or often visit tick-prone areas like woodlands or rural spots. The vaccine helps reduce the risk of infection, but it’s not a substitute for regular tick prevention. Your vet can help you decide if it’s the right choice for your dog.
Other forms of Lyme disease prevention
Apply preventative treatments regularly to keep your dog tick-free. There are many of these on the market, including tablets, collars, sprays and spot-on treatments. Have a chat with your vet for a better idea of which treatment will be most suited to your dog.
Even with the help of anti-tick sprays or collars, be sure to inspect your dog’s fur thoroughly after a walk, particularly if you’ve just wandered through a tick-prone area. Be extra vigilant during the warmer months too, this is ticks’ favourite time of the year. Check yourself and your children too.
Read more: Removing a tick from a dog
Depending on which preventative medication you use, it may take 12 hours or so for the tick to die and this is more than enough time for Lyme disease to spread. If you spot a tick on your dog, remove it as soon as you can; follow the instructions in the video below, and if you don’t feel comfortable doing this, contact your vet as soon as possible.
Treatment for Lyme disease in dogs
If your dog has Lyme disease, the most common treatment is a course of antibiotics, usually for about four weeks. Most dogs start to feel better within a few days, but it’s important to complete the full treatment even if they seem back to normal.
Your vet may also suggest pain relief or anti-inflammatory medication to help with sore joints or stiffness. If the disease has been left untreated for a while, your dog might need extra support, especially if other organs, like the kidneys, are affected.
Can Lyme disease in dogs be cured?
Yes, in most cases, Lyme disease can be treated and cured with antibiotics. Many dogs go on to make a full recovery, especially when the illness is caught early. If the infection has been in the body for a while, some dogs may be left with longer-term joint pain or need extra care. But the sooner treatment starts, the better the outcome.
Need more info on lyme disease in dogs?
If your dog has had a tick recently or is showing signs that worry you, don’t wait, speak to your vet. They can check for Lyme disease and help you decide the best next steps.
They’ll also offer advice on year-round tick prevention, including the best products for your pet’s lifestyle. And if you're a member of the Pet Health Club, your tick treatments are already covered, so you're one step ahead in keeping your dog safe. Not sure where to go? Use our Find a Vet page to locate your nearest practice.
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Medically reviewed by Dave Tweedle, BVetMed MRCVS, Natasha Demir, MRCVS Cert AVP
Published on 19/12/2019 • Reviewed on 24/11/2023