Canine ehrlichiosis
Canine ehrlichiosis is a tick-borne infectious disease caused by bacteria that infects a dog's blood cells. It is very widespread in Tunisia due to the significant presence of ticks, particularly in dogs living outdoors. It can progress acu...
What is it?
Canine ehrlichiosis is a tick-borne infectious disease caused by bacteria that infects a dog's blood cells. It is very widespread in Tunisia due to the significant presence of ticks, particularly in dogs living outdoors. It can progress acutely, silently or chronically depending on the case.
Commonly observed signs
These signs are neither exhaustive nor specific. Only a veterinarian can establish a diagnosis.
Related signs — each one links to its page:
Possible signs include fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, swollen lymph nodes and unusual nosebleeds. In chronic forms, we can observe progressive weight loss, pallor of the mucous membranes and more general health problems. These symptoms are not specific and require veterinary advice.
When to consult without delay
This list does not replace veterinary advice. It gathers situations that justify a prompt consultation.
Causes and risk factors
The disease is caused by an intracellular bacteria, mainly Ehrlichia canis, which infects the dog's white blood cells. This bacteria disrupts the normal functioning of the animal's immune and blood system.
Dogs living outdoors, in rural or poorly maintained areas, are more exposed to ticks and therefore to the risk of infection. Lack of regular pest protection and a tick-infested environment also increase this risk.
Transmission
Transmission occurs through the bite of an infected tick, mainly the brown dog tick, which is very common in Tunisia. The disease is not transmitted directly from one dog to another without the intermediary of the tick.
Diagnosis and care
Diagnosis is the veterinarian's responsibility, based on clinical examination and laboratory tests. Care is decided case by case.
Faced with suggestive symptoms, only a veterinary consultation provides reliable advice and appropriate care. A veterinarian will be able to carry out the necessary examinations to confirm or rule out this disease.
Prevention
Prevention is essentially based on regular fight against ticks using suitable antiparasitic products, to be asked by a veterinarian. It is also advisable to regularly inspect the dog's coat after going outdoors and to maintain a clean environment.
References
ESCCAP — European Scientific Counsel Companion Animal Parasites
Content reviewed by the TunisieVet editorial team · Updated 18 August 2026
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