Systemic lupus erythematosus in Dogs

Breeds documented
11
Published sources
5

Overview

A misdirected immune response can damage several parts of the body at once. In systemic lupus erythematosus, this autoimmune response targets the dog's own tissues. Joints, kidneys, blood, and skin can all be affected. This differs from discoid lupus, a form of lupus limited to the skin. Signs can settle for a time and then flare up again.

Signs to watch for

  • Limping that shifts between legs.
  • Stiffness or difficulty getting up.
  • Weakness or unusually pale gums.
  • Crusted skin, patches of hair loss, or mouth sores.
  • Drinking and urinating more than usual.

Signs often begin between 2 and 4 years of age, though onset can be earlier or later.

When to get help Book a veterinary visit if you notice these signs.

Diagnosis and tests

Vets assess the pattern of illness alongside blood tests for organ damage and changes in blood cells. An antinuclear antibody test looks for immune proteins directed against material inside the body's cells. A positive result alone does not confirm lupus, because healthy animals can also have these antibodies. A negative result does not rule it out either, as some affected animals have no detectable antibodies. Vets must consider all the signs and test results together.

Breeds with documented risk

11 breeds

By breed size
  • 1 Toy
  • 3 Small
  • 3 Medium
  • 4 Large

Most popular breeds on this list

All 11 breeds, A to Z

Inheritance

  • Not yet known

    None of the sources we use states how this is inherited in dogs yet.

We've gathered what published sources say about this condition, so you can talk it through with your vet. It isn't veterinary advice: you and your vet know your dog best.

Sources

  1. cidd.discoveryspace.ca
  2. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  3. merckvetmanual.com
  4. merckvetmanual.com
  5. Afghan Hound: vet.cornell.edu