Canine Lupus - Family - Pets

Canine Lupus

Canine lupus is a very serious condition that affects your dog's immune system. The scientific name for the condition is Lupus Erythematosus.

This quite rare health condition affects your dog's heart, liver, joints, kidneys, lungs and even the skin.

Canine lupus or Lupus Erythematosus is a disease that effects a dog's immune system.

The main cause of Canine lupus is due to your dog's antibodies starting to attack your dog's own bodily tissues. It is recognized that there are two types of the disease - one is called CSL or Canine Systemic Lupus and less common than the other variety which is called CDL or Canine Discoid Lupus.

Canine Discoid Lupus

CDL is actually more common in certain breeds including...

1. Shetland Sheepdogs2. Collies3. Siberian Huskys4. Short haired Pointers5. German Shepherds

Symptoms of the Disease

1. Your dog may want to drink and even urinate more - this is due to the kidneys having been affected.

2. Your dog may start to become lame - this is due to the joints becoming affected with arthritis.

3. Your dog may start to suffer from hair loss.

4. Skin problems are also a symptom of the disease - in CSL the skin is mainly affected on the face.

5. You may notice that your dog's gums are pale due to anaemia.

6. Nasal scarring is also a symptom of the disease.

7. Your dog may start to become tired more easily and suffer from muscle pain.

Diagnosis of Canine Lupus

As the diease affects so many areas of your dog's body including many of the organs - this can make diagnosis a little more difficult. The main way to diagnose canine lupus is through a biopsy or through blood tests.

For more tips and advice on treating this condition take a look at our page on canine lupus.