Rabies in dogs – signs and what to do
Contact a vet todayContact your vet today if you think your dog has this – it can become serious. Rabies is a deadly virus that attacks the brain and nerves.
What you can do now
- Contact your vet today.
- Note when it started, how often it happens and what else you see.
- Take a photo or short video to show the vet.
- Keep fresh water available.
- Let your dog rest somewhere calm.
Don't
- Do not give any human medicine.
- Do not wait if it gets worse.
What it is
Rabies is a deadly virus that can spread between animals and people.[1] Rabies attacks the brain and nerves, causing signs such as drooling, fever, aggression and weakness.[1]
Signs
Causes and risk factors
What the experts say
“Serious side effects, such as anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction), are extremely rare (less than 1 in 10,000), but if your dog does experience any side effects, speak to your vet straight away.”
Not sure how serious it is?
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Common questions
What is rabies?
Rabies is a deadly virus that can spread between animals and people.[1]
How can dogs catch rabies?
Dogs tend to catch rabies if another infected animal bites them, because the virus travels through saliva.[1]
What signs can rabies cause in dogs?
Signs can include fever, changes in behaviour, howling or yelping, drooling, difficulty swallowing and aggression.[1]
Sources
How this page was made: written with the help of AI from the sources below, then checked claim by claim against those sources. Urgency levels follow OkPaw’s fixed safety rules. It is guidance, not a diagnosis. How we write our pages
Ringworm
Skin Fold Dermatitis
Ticks