Emerging and Re-emerging Zoonotic and Infectious Diseases of Dogs: Risks, Transmission, and Prevention

Abstract

Dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) are among the most widely accepted companion animals across households worldwide. Rapid urbanization and modernization have led to an increase in nuclear families and solitary living, thereby enhancing the human inclination toward pet ownership for companionship. However, the close interaction between humans and dogs, coupled with shared living environments, poses a significant risk for the transmission of zoonotic, emerging, and re-emerging canine zoonotic diseases. Factors such as climate change, increased human–animal interface, unregulated breeding practices, and movement of pets across regions contribute to the emergence and resurgence of pathogens of public health importance, including leptospirosis, brucellosis, and vector-borne infections. Effective prevention and control of these diseases require comprehensive knowledge of vaccination protocols, pet health management, and disease surveillance. The present review provides an overview of major canine diseases, including rabies, canine parvoviral gastroenteritis, canine distemper, canine coronavirus infection, canine rotavirus infection, canine herpesvirus infection, canine leptospirosis, canine brucellosis, transmissible venereal tumor (TVT), kennel cough, and pyoderma, while also highlighting the public health significance of emerging and re-emerging zoonotic threats. Emphasis is placed on their etiological agents, transmission dynamics, and key clinical aspects. This review aims to offer concise and accessible information to support improved disease management, strengthen zoonotic disease awareness, and promote responsible pet ownership