Infectious canine hepatitis in dogs

By
✔ MRCVS
LMV
MSc
Updated October 16, 2025
4 min read

Overview

Symptoms

Risk

Diagnosis

Vet treatment

Home treatment

Prevention

When to worry

Share this article

Infectious canine hepatitis in dogs

By
✔ MRCVS
LMV
MSc
Updated October 16, 2025
4 min read

Infectious canine hepatitis is a viral disease that affects the liver and other organs. It can be fatal in 10-30% of cases in young dogs and puppies. A very effective vaccine is available and this disease has become very rare in areas where the vaccine is commonly used.

This disease can affect dogs, wolves, coyotes, skunks, bears and foxes. The virus is easily transmitted between dogs but can also survive for months on objects. Besides the liver, it commonly affects the kidneys, spleen, eyes and lungs. It can cause sudden death in puppies, or different degrees of liver failure and clotting problems. The vaccine against this disease is considered a core vaccine and is included in all vaccination plans.

What is infectious canine hepatitis in dogs? >What is infectious canine hepatitis in dogs? [Overview

Symptoms of infectious canine hepatitis in dogs >Symptoms of infectious canine hepatitis in dogs [Symptoms

Dogs at risk of infectious canine hepatitis >Dogs at risk of infectious canine hepatitis [Risk

Diagnosis of infectious canine hepatitis in dogs >Diagnosis of infectious canine hepatitis in dogs [Diagnosis

Veterinary treatment of infectious canine hepatitis in dogs >Veterinary treatment of infectious canine hepatitis in dogs [Vet treatment

Home treatment of infectious canine hepatitis in dogs >Home treatment of infectious canine hepatitis in dogs [Home treatment

Prevention of infectious canine hepatitis in dogs >Prevention of infectious canine hepatitis in dogs [Prevention

When to worry >When to worry [When to worry

Explore our vet recommended products
Shop Now

Share this article

Similar Articles

Seizures in dogs
Symptoms

Seizures in dogs

Discover why dogs have seizures, how to recognise a seizure, get tips on how to keep your dog safe and comfortable, and learn when to contact your vet.
Dr. Deborah Brown
October 22, 2023 5 min read
Inhaler toxicity in dogs
Poisons in Pets

Inhaler toxicity in dogs

Dog chewed an inhaler? This is a veterinary emergency. Learn the signs of salbutamol poisoning such as a racing heart and shaking, and why you must act now for urgent treatment.
Dr. Deborah Brown
February 24, 2026 4 min read
Recreational drug poisoning in dogs
Poisons in Pets

Recreational drug poisoning in dogs

Learn how to recognise different types of recreational drug poisoning in dogs, key symptoms to watch for, and when to seek urgent veterinary care to protect your pet.
Dr. Valter Carlos
April 02, 2026 8 min read
Dilated Cardiomyopathy in Dogs
Health Conditions

Dilated Cardiomyopathy in Dogs

Learn about dilated cardiomyopathy in dogs, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options to improve quality of life.
Dr. Valter Carlos
March 30, 2026 9 min read
Caffeine Poisoning in Dogs
Poisons in Pets

Caffeine Poisoning in Dogs

Learn the signs, causes, and treatment of caffeine poisoning in dogs, plus how to keep your pet safe from accidental exposure.
Dr. Deborah Brown
April 22, 2026 4 min read
Hair loss in dogs
Symptoms

Hair loss in dogs

Hair loss (alopecia) is common in dogs. Learn the causes (parasites, allergies, hormonal issues), warning signs, and treatment options for promoting coat regrowth and skin health
Dr. Deborah Brown
March 31, 2026 5 min read
Vitamin D (Cholecalciferol) Toxicity in Dogs
Poisons in Pets

Vitamin D (Cholecalciferol) Toxicity in Dogs

Vitamin D toxicity (Cholecalciferol) is a veterinary emergency that can cause permanent kidney damage. Our vet explains the symptoms, treatment options and best ways to prevent it
Dr. Deborah Brown
February 24, 2026 5 min read
Cannabis (THC) Toxicity in Dogs
Poisons in Pets

Cannabis (THC) Toxicity in Dogs

Learn the key symptoms of cannabis toxicity in dogs from a UK vet. Discover what to do if your dog ate weed, the recovery timeline, and why honest clinical care is vital for their safety.
Dr. Deborah Brown
February 24, 2026 5 min read
Nicotine poisoning in dogs
Poisons in Pets

Nicotine poisoning in dogs

Nicotine poisoning in dogs is an emergency. Whether your dog ate a vape pod, cigarette, or nicotine pouch, every minute counts. Learn the signs of toxicity and discover what steps to take immediately
Dr. Valter Carlos
February 28, 2026 4 min read
Essential Oil Toxicity in Dogs
Poisons in Pets

Essential Oil Toxicity in Dogs

Many 'natural' essential oils are toxic to dogs, view our vet-verified list of dangerous oils. Learn the symptoms to look out for and what to do to keep your pet safe.
Dr. Deborah Brown
March 05, 2026 6 min read
Mouldy food poisoning in dogs
Poisons in Pets

Mouldy food poisoning in dogs

Learn how to spot and prevent mould poison poisoning in dogs. Discover symptoms, urgent care tips, and ways to keep your dog safe at home.
Dr. Valter Carlos
March 03, 2026 5 min read
Pregnancy in dogs
Health Conditions

Pregnancy in dogs

Learn how to support a healthy dog pregnancy, recognise body changes, prepare for labour, what to monitor and how to ensure best care for both mother and puppies.
Dr. Carolina Paz
March 09, 2024 7 min read