Quick Answer

Canine hepatitis is a viral disease of dogs caused by canine adenovirus type 1 (CAV-1). It is not the same as human hepatitis A, B, or C, and it cannot spread to people. The virus attacks the liver and other organs, and vaccination is the most effective prevention.

  • Canine hepatitis is caused by canine adenovirus type 1 (CAV-1).
  • The virus is not related to human hepatitis viruses.
  • Dogs catch it through contact with infected urine, feces, or saliva.
  • The disease affects the liver, kidneys, and blood vessels.
  • Vaccination is highly effective and part of core puppy shots.
  • There is no specific antiviral cure; treatment is supportive.

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Canine hepatitis is often confused with human hepatitis because of the name, but they are entirely different diseases. In dogs, the infection is caused by a specific virus called canine adenovirus type 1 (CAV-1). This virus targets the liver and can also damage the kidneys, eyes, and blood vessels. Understanding the distinction is important because canine hepatitis is not contagious to humans. The virus is spread through direct contact with infected body fluids, and unvaccinated dogs are at highest risk. The disease can range from mild to severe, and some dogs may become carriers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do dogs get canine hepatitis?

Canine hepatitis is a viral disease of dogs caused by canine adenovirus type 1 (CAV-1). It is not the same as human hepatitis A, B, or C, and it cannot spread to people. The virus attacks the liver and other organs, and vaccination is the most effective prevention.

Is canine hepatitis zoonotic?

Canine hepatitis is a viral disease of dogs caused by canine adenovirus type 1 (CAV-1). It is not the same as human hepatitis A, B, or C, and it cannot spread to people. The virus attacks the liver and other organs, and vaccination is the most effective prevention.

Is hepatitis zoonotic?

Canine hepatitis is a viral disease of dogs caused by canine adenovirus type 1 (CAV-1). It is not the same as human hepatitis A, B, or C, and it cannot spread to people. The virus attacks the liver and other organs, and vaccination is the most effective prevention.

Is equine hepatitis zoonotic?

Canine hepatitis is a viral disease of dogs caused by canine adenovirus type 1 (CAV-1). It is not the same as human hepatitis A, B, or C, and it cannot spread to people. The virus attacks the liver and other organs, and vaccination is the most effective prevention.

Related Questions

⚕️ This page is educational and does not replace advice from a licensed clinician. If you may have been exposed to an STI, get tested — most infections are manageable, and many are fully curable.

Sources & Further Reading

Figures reflect CDC surveillance and WHO estimates; they are population statistics, not personal risk predictions.