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Canine Herpesvirus, CHV (Viral Infection Infectious Puppies Die) in Dogs

Occurrence: common
Location of illness: General/Whole body

Author: Dr. med. vet. Gisa Löwe | Last modified: 06.11.2025

CanineCanine refers to anything related to dogs. The term is used to describe characteristics, diseases, or specific aspects that specifically affect dogs. Herpesvirus (CHV) is a virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants. that mainly occurs in dogs and can lead to serious illness or death, especially in newborn puppies. This disease is often referred to as “infectiousInfectious describes the ability of a pathogen to be transmitted from one individual to another and trigger an infection. It also refers to diseases caused by such pathogens. Puppies die”.

The most important facts at a glance

Canine Herpesvirus (CHV) is a highly contagiousContagious means infectious. Diseases that can easily be transmitted from one animal to another or from animals to humans are referred to as contagious. virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants. that mainly affects newborn puppies and can lead to life-threatening infections. It belongs to the family of herpesviruses, which are known to remain in the host for life and reactivate during stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being. or immunodeficiency. Transmission usually occurs through direct contact with infected dogs or contaminatedContaminated describes something that has been polluted by harmful microorganisms, chemicals, or other dangerous substances. In veterinary medicine, this can affect food, water, toys, or the environment. surfaces. Newborn puppies are particularly at risk because their immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body. is not yet fully developed. Symptoms of a CHV infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. in puppies include failure to thrive, reduced milk intake, whining, and reluctance to move. AdultThe term "adult" refers to an individual who has reached full physical development and is considered an adult. In veterinary medicine, this term is used to describe animals that have completed growth and are of reproductive age. dogs can carry and spread the virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants. without showing serious symptoms themselves.

The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is based on clinical signs, medical historyThe medical history is the systematic collection of a patient's medical history through questioning. It includes information about previous illnesses, treatments, allergies, and lifestyle habits., and special laboratory tests such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR). There is no specific antiviral treatment, so therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. focuses on symptomatic support and preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. of secondary infections. The prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. for newborn puppies is often poor, while older dogs usually recover better. PreventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. includes isolation of infected animals, hygiene measures, and vaccines available in some countries. Research focuses on the development of more effective vaccines, the investigation of transmission routes, and possible new therapeutic approaches to minimize the impact of CHV.

Causes

Canine Herpesvirus belongs to the family Herpesviridae and is closely related to other herpesviruses that occur in various animal species. Herpesviruses are DNADNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) is the molecule that carries the genetic instructions for the development, function, and reproduction of all known living organisms and many viruses. It is located in the cells of an organism and contains the information for heredity. viruses known for their ability to persist in the host for life. After an initialInitial means beginning or at the start. In medicine, it can refer to the first symptoms of a disease or the first phase of a treatment process. infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease., the virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants. can enter a latentLatent refers to a state in which a disease or infection is present in the body, but does not yet show any visible symptoms. Latent infections can become active under certain conditions. state and be reactivated during stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being. or immunosuppressionImmunosuppression is a state of reduced activity or effectiveness of the immune system. In dogs and cats, immunosuppression can occur naturally or be caused by certain medications, diseases, or medical treatments..

CHV is highly contagiousContagious means infectious. Diseases that can easily be transmitted from one animal to another or from animals to humans are referred to as contagious. and is mainly transmitted through direct contact between dogs or through contact with contaminatedContaminated describes something that has been polluted by harmful microorganisms, chemicals, or other dangerous substances. In veterinary medicine, this can affect food, water, toys, or the environment. surfaces and objects. One of the main causes for the spread of the virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants. is the contact of pregnant bitches with infected dogs, which can lead to transmission to the puppies.

In newborn puppies, whose immune systems are not yet fully developed, the virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants. can quickly cause life-threatening infections. The risk of infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. is particularly high in the first few weeks of life. More adultThe term "adult" refers to an individual who has reached full physical development and is considered an adult. In veterinary medicine, this term is used to describe animals that have completed growth and are of reproductive age. dogs can carry and spread the virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants. without showing severe symptoms themselves, which makes controlling the disease more difficult.

Symptoms

Very common symptoms:

Common symptoms:

Rare symptoms:

The symptoms of a CHV infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. can vary depending on the age and health of the dog. In newborn puppies, the symptoms are often severe and can occur suddenly. The most common signs include loss of appetite, respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. distress, abdominalThe term “abdominal” refers to anything that concerns the belly or the abdomen. It is an adjectival expression used to describe the location, symptoms, or conditions that occur in the abdominal area. pain, and weakness. The puppies may also develop a bluish discoloration of the mucous membranes and skin, a condition known as cyanosisCyanosis refers to a bluish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes, caused by an inadequate oxygen supply to the blood. It can be a sign of heart, lung, or blood diseases..

In older puppies and adultThe term “adult” refers to an individual who has reached full physical development and is considered an adult. In veterinary medicine, this term is used to describe animals that have completed growth and are of reproductive age. dogs, the symptoms are often milder. They may develop respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. diseases that manifest as cough, sneezing, and nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. discharge. Some dogs may also develop eye diseases or skin lesions. In many cases, however, older dogs show no or only very mild symptoms.

Diagnosis

The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. of a CHV infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. is based on a combination of clinical signs, medical historyThe medical history is the systematic collection of a patient's medical history through questioning. It includes information about previous illnesses, treatments, allergies, and lifestyle habits. and special laboratory tests. If a CHV infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. is suspected, a veterinarian can take samples from affected tissues or fluids to detect the presence of the virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants..

Laboratory tests such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) can be used to confirm the genetic presence of the virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants.. Serological tests can also be used to detect antibodies against the virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants. in the blood, which may indicate a previous or current infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.. An accurate diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is important to plan the appropriate treatment and preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. strategies.

Therapy

Unfortunately, there is no specific antiviral treatment that can completely cure CHV. Treatment therefore focuses on supporting the affected dogs and alleviating the symptoms. Newborn puppies may require intensive care, including warmth support, fluid administration and, if necessary, the administration of antibiotics to prevent secondary bacterial infections.

In older dogs that show respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. symptoms, treatment may include medications to relieve cough and nasal discharge, as well as support for the immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body.. It is important to isolate infected dogs from other animals to prevent the spread of the virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants..

Prognosis and follow-up care

The prognosis for newborn puppies with CHV infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. is often poor, especially if the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. is not detected and treated early. Many infected puppies die within a few days after the onset of symptoms. In older puppies and adultThe term "adult" refers to an individual who has reached full physical development and is considered an adult. In veterinary medicine, this term is used to describe animals that have completed growth and are of reproductive age. dogs, the prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. is better as they develop less severe symptoms and often recover completely.

However, dogs that survive a CHV infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. can carry the virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants. for life and develop symptoms again in stressful situations. Therefore, long-term monitoring and care is necessary to minimize the risk of reactivation.

Prevention

The preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. of CHV infections is mainly based on controlling the spread of the virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants. and protecting susceptible animals. One of the most important measures is to avoid contact between infected and non-infected dogs, especially during pregnancy and after birth.

Hygiene measures, such as regular cleaning and disinfection of kennel facilities and equipment, can also help to minimize the spread of the virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants.. In some countries, vaccines against CHV are available that can be used in pregnant bitches to promote immunity against the virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants. and reduce transmission to the puppies.

Special care should be taken when introducing new dogs into existing groups or breeding facilities to ensure that they are free of CHV. Regular veterinary monitoring and health checks can also help to detect and control potential outbreaks early.

Outlook on current research

Research on CanineCanine refers to anything related to dogs. The term is used to describe characteristics, diseases, or specific aspects that specifically affect dogs. Herpesvirus (CHV) is currently focused on various aspects of the disease to improve understanding and treatment. One of the main goals is to develop more effective vaccines. While vaccines already exist, they are not always fully effective, and researchers are working to improve the immune responseAn immune response is the immune system's reaction to foreign substances (antigens), such as microorganisms or proteins. It involves a series of processes aimed at recognizing, fighting, and eliminating these antigens. of dogs to provide better protectionProtection refers to safeguarding against diseases or harm. In veterinary medicine, this can include protecting animals through vaccinations, the use of parasite control products, or providing a safe environment. against the virus. These vaccines are intended not only to prevent the outbreak of the disease, but also to reduce the transmission of the virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants. from dogs to their puppies.

Another important area of research is the investigation of the transmission routes of the virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants.. CHV can be transmitted through direct contact or through droplet infectionDroplet infection refers to the transmission of pathogens through small droplets of liquid that are released into the air when infected people Cough, Sneeze, or talk and are inhaled by other people.. Scientists are trying to understand the exact mechanisms of virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants. spread in order to develop better preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. strategies. This includes the study of virus transmission in kennels and when keeping multipleMultiple means manifold or repeated and is used to describe conditions or events that occur in multiple instances or at different locations. In veterinary medicine, this may indicate multiple lesions, tumors, or other pathological changes. dogs in households.

The genetic analysis of CanineCanine refers to anything related to dogs. The term is used to describe characteristics, diseases, or specific aspects that specifically affect dogs. Herpesvirus is also an exciting field of research. By sequencing the viralViral refers to viruses and their effects on the organism. Viral infections in dogs and cats can range from harmless colds to severe, life-threatening diseases. genome, researchers can identify mutations and genetic variations that affect the virulence and transmissibility of the virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants.. Such information could lead to new therapeutic approaches that specifically target certain virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants. strains.

In addition, the role of the virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants. in chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. diseases and subclinicalSubclinical refers to a condition or disease that does not yet cause any recognizable symptoms. Subclinical diseases can only be diagnosed by specific tests or examinations. infections is being explored. While CHV is often associated with acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention., severe infections in puppies, it can also cause subclinicalSubclinical refers to a condition or disease that does not yet cause any recognizable symptoms. Subclinical diseases can only be diagnosed by specific tests or examinations. infections in adultThe term "adult" refers to an individual who has reached full physical development and is considered an adult. In veterinary medicine, this term is used to describe animals that have completed growth and are of reproductive age. dogs. These infections are often less obvious, but can have long-term health effects. Researchers are investigating how the virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants. remains in the body and can be reactivated to better understand how it can cause long-term health problems.

The effects of environmental factors on the spread and course of the disease are also the subject of current research. Factors such as stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being., nutrition and general health conditions can affect a dog’s susceptibility to CHV. By understanding these factors, scientists hope to develop preventive measures that minimize the risk of infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease..

Finally, the therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. of CHV infections is being actively researched. Currently, there are no specific antiviral drugs approved for CHV, but researchers are investigating existing antiviral agents for their effectiveness against the virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants.. These studies could open up new treatment options that alleviate symptoms and support the recovery of infected dogs.

Overall, research on CanineCanine refers to anything related to dogs. The term is used to describe characteristics, diseases, or specific aspects that specifically affect dogs. Herpesvirus is a dynamic and multidisciplinary field that continuously provides new insights to improve the health of dogs worldwide. Advances in vaccineA vaccine is a substance that stimulates the immune system to develop immunity against specific pathogens without causing the disease itself. Vaccines may contain weakened or inactivated pathogens, toxoids, or recombinant antigens. development, understanding of transmission routes, and therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. options will help to reduce the impact of this disease in the future.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is CanineCanine refers to anything related to dogs. The term is used to describe characteristics, diseases, or specific aspects that specifically affect dogs. Herpesvirus? Canine Herpesvirus (CHV) is a virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants. that infects dogs and can cause severe diseases, especially in newborn puppies. It is known for the so-called “infectiousInfectious describes the ability of a pathogen to be transmitted from one individual to another and trigger an infection. It also refers to diseases caused by such pathogens. Puppies die”.
How is CHV transmitted? CHV is usually transmitted through direct contact with infected dogs. This can happen through nasal and eye secretions, but also through contact between mother and puppies during or shortly after birth.
What symptoms does CHV cause? In newborn puppies, symptoms such as loss of appetite, respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. problems, abdominalThe term "abdominal" refers to anything that concerns the belly or the abdomen. It is an adjectival expression used to describe the location, symptoms, or conditions that occur in the abdominal area. pain, and sudden death can occur. AdultThe term "adult" refers to an individual who has reached full physical development and is considered an adult. In veterinary medicine, this term is used to describe animals that have completed growth and are of reproductive age. dogs often show no symptoms, but may develop fever, respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. diseases, or reproductive problems.
Can CHV be dangerous in adultThe term "adult" refers to an individual who has reached full physical development and is considered an adult. In veterinary medicine, this term is used to describe animals that have completed growth and are of reproductive age. dogs? While CHV usually does not cause severe symptoms in adultThe term "adult" refers to an individual who has reached full physical development and is considered an adult. In veterinary medicine, this term is used to describe animals that have completed growth and are of reproductive age. dogs, it can still cause reproductive problems or respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. diseases. A chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. is also possible.
How can CHV be diagnosed? CHV is diagnosed by various laboratory tests, including PCR tests that detect viralViral refers to viruses and their effects on the organism. Viral infections in dogs and cats can range from harmless colds to severe, life-threatening diseases. DNADNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) is the molecule that carries the genetic instructions for the development, function, and reproduction of all known living organisms and many viruses. It is located in the cells of an organism and contains the information for heredity., as well as serological tests that detect antibodies.
Is there a vaccineA vaccine is a substance that stimulates the immune system to develop immunity against specific pathogens without causing the disease itself. Vaccines may contain weakened or inactivated pathogens, toxoids, or recombinant antigens. against CHV? Yes, there are vaccines against CHV that have been developed to reduce virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants. transmission and prevent outbreaks in puppies. However, the effectiveness may vary, and vaccinationVaccination is the process of administering a vaccine to develop immunity against a specific infectious disease. It is one of the most effective methods of prevention of infectious diseases. is often recommended for breeding bitches.
How is CHV treated? There is currently no specific antiviral treatment for CHV. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and supporting the immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body.. In severe cases, intensive care may be required.
Can humans be infected with CHV? No, CanineCanine refers to anything related to dogs. The term is used to describe characteristics, diseases, or specific aspects that specifically affect dogs. Herpesvirus is specific to dogs and poses no danger to humans or other pets.
How can the spread of CHV be prevented? The spread of CHV can be controlled through good hygiene practices, quarantineQuarantine is the isolation of animals to prevent the spread of disease. This may be necessary if an infectious disease is suspected or after animals are imported from other countries. of new or sick dogs, and, if possible, vaccinationVaccination is the process of administering a vaccine to develop immunity against a specific infectious disease. It is one of the most effective methods of prevention of infectious diseases.. It is also important to minimize stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being. in pregnant bitches.
Is CHV common in all countries? CHV is widespread worldwide, but the prevalence may vary depending on the region. It is more common in densely populated areas or where many dogs live together.