Canine leishmaniasis
Canine leishmaniasis is a chronic parasitic disease that affects dogs and can also affect humans, making it an important zoonosis in Tunisia. It is caused by a microscopic parasite transmitted by the bite of a sandfly (small midge). This di...
What is it?
Canine leishmaniasis is a chronic parasitic disease that affects dogs and can also affect humans, making it an important zoonosis in Tunisia. It is caused by a microscopic parasite transmitted by the bite of a sandfly (small midge). This disease often progresses slowly and can affect the skin, internal organs and immune system.
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Commonly observed signs
These signs are neither exhaustive nor specific. Only a veterinarian can establish a diagnosis.
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The most common signs are skin lesions such as hair loss around the eyes, crusts and ulcers, as well as progressive weight loss. We often see abnormally long nails, general fatigue, swollen lymph nodes and sometimes nosebleeds. These symptoms can vary greatly from one dog to another and appear several months after infection.
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 a unicellular parasite of the Leishmania genus, mainly Leishmania infantum in Tunisia and the Mediterranean basin. This parasite invades the cells of the dog's immune system, disrupting its natural defenses. The infection sets in gradually and may remain silent for a long time before clinical signs appear.
Dogs living outdoors in rural areas or near humid areas are more exposed to sandfly bites. The hot regions of Tunisia with a strong presence of these insects during the summer increase the risk of contamination. Certain dog breeds also seem more susceptible to developing the clinical form of the disease.
Transmission
Transmission occurs primarily through the bite of an infected female sandfly, an insect active mainly at dusk and at night during warm months. Dogs generally do not transmit the disease directly to humans or to another dog without the intervention of this insect vector. Rarer transmission can occur from mother to puppies or through blood transfusion.
Diagnosis and care
Diagnosis is the veterinarian's responsibility, based on clinical examination and laboratory tests. Care is decided case by case.
If you observe signs suggestive of this disease in your dog, it is essential to consult a veterinarian quickly for professional advice. Only a veterinarian can confirm the disease through appropriate examinations and offer appropriate treatment. Regular monitoring is important because this disease requires long-term management.
Treatment
The veterinarian starts by confirming the disease with blood and urine tests, sometimes supplemented by a sample taken from a lymph node, bone marrow or skin. He also assesses the condition of the kidneys, liver and blood to determine how advanced the disease is.
Treatment usually combines several classes of medication: anti-leishmanial drugs, which reduce the number of parasites, and a drug that limits the parasite's multiplication. These products are prescribed and monitored only by the veterinarian.
Supportive care is important: an adapted diet, particularly when the kidneys are affected, and treatment of skin lesions. Associated infections are treated if needed.
Treatment is often long and requires regular check-ups. It most often keeps the disease under control and improves the dog's condition, but complete cure of the parasite is rare. Relapses are possible, which is why follow-up is so important.
The veterinarian also advises protecting the dog against sand fly bites during and after treatment. Never give any medication on your own initiative.
Treatment depends on the cause and the animal's condition: it must be determined by a veterinarian. No self-medication.
Prevention
Prevention is mainly based on protection against sand fly bites, in particular through collars or suitable repellent products recommended by a veterinarian. Avoiding leaving the dog outside during the hours of peak sandfly activity, i.e. in the evening and at night, also reduces the risk. A vaccine exists in some countries and can be discussed with a veterinarian depending on the local situation.
Possible complications
The most serious complication is kidney involvement: the parasites and the immune reaction damage the kidney filters, which can lead to chronic kidney failure, the leading cause of death linked to the disease.
The dog may also develop anemia (a lack of red blood cells) and clotting disorders, with bleeding.
Other complications are possible: eye inflammation, involvement of the joints and muscles, liver or intestinal involvement, and infected skin wounds.
Without treatment or follow-up, the disease can gradually worsen and become fatal. Relapses are possible even after an improvement.
When to see a veterinarian
Hair loss around the eyes or on the ears, crusts or skin wounds that do not heal
Gradual weight loss despite a normal appetite
Unusual tiredness or reduced activity
Nails growing abnormally fast or becoming misshapen
Swollen lymph nodes
Repeated nosebleeds
Lameness, joint pain, or red and painful eyes
Increased thirst and urination, vomiting, or loss of appetite
Dog already treated for canine leishmaniasis whose signs reappear
Dog living in an area with sand flies that shows any of these signs
References
OMS — Organisation mondiale de la santé
ESCCAP — European Scientific Counsel Companion Animal Parasites
Content reviewed by the TunisieVet editorial team · Updated 04 November 2026
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