Lupus is an autoimmune disease (AID) that affects both dogs and humans, causing the immune system to mistakenly attack the body. The most common AID in dogs is immune mediated hemolytic anemia (Trusted Source) (IMHA) followed by pemphigus foliaceus.
In dogs, lupus can manifest in two forms. Cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) is the more common type and primarily impacts the skin. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), however, can attack internal organs and may be life-threatening. In some extremely rare cases, both types of lupus can overlap.
When both types of lupus develop, this can lead to a poor quality of life due to the complications and discomfort both conditions can produce.
Dr. Dwight Alleyne
Certain breeds, such as German Shepherds, Shetland Sheepdogs, Old English Sheepdogs, Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers, German Shorthair Pointers, and Collies, are at higher risk. Additionally, one study (Trusted Source) suggests that dogs living with owners who have SLE may also face a higher risk. Understanding canine lupus is extremely important, especially for owners of these predisposed breeds.
Cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) (Trusted Source) is contained to a dog’s skin, and almost always affects dogs’ noses and faces. Thankfully, this more common type is treatable and many dogs recover well. However, there is no cure for the disease and treatment must be maintained life-long.
There are three sub-types of CLE in dogs:
These diseases are further classified by lesion type and average duration: acute cutaneous LE (ACLE), subacute cutaneous LE (SCLE), and chronic cutaneous LE (CCLE). It wasn’t until around 2019 that vets and scientists began referring to these diseases collectively as CLE. This change is largely due to an article written by a group of veterinary scientists discussing the need for reclassification.
The underlying causes for CLE remain largely unknown. However, the condition is often more common in sunny climates, and symptoms are often worsened by ultraviolet (UV) exposure.
Unlike SLE, symptoms of CLE are typically confined to dogs’ faces, so it’s easier to recognize. While some effects can spread to other areas of the face or body, most CLE symptoms center on the nose. Some common clinical signs of CLE include:
Biopsies are the main method veterinarians use to diagnose CLE. A skin biopsy sample is usually taken from the nose and tested for CLE. The biopsy can also help rule out other common skin conditions, like nasal hyperkeratosis. Dogs may require sedation and stitches for the biopsy, but the procedure is generally uncomplicated.
Often, vets will prescribe an oral antibiotic like tetracycline to treat secondary bacterial infections.
Topical steroid creams can also be effective, but owners must be careful not to let their dog lick the medication from their nose. In more severe cases, stronger immunosuppressants, like those used to treat SLE, may also be prescribed.
Lastly, dogs with CLE should avoid sun exposure whenever possible, as UV light can exacerbate the issue. For owners, this might mean adjusting walk schedules to minimize exposure or keeping dogs indoors as often as possible while they heal.
CLE is an autoimmune disease that stays with a dog for life. Unlike SLE, however, the prognosis for dogs with CLE is generally good with proper treatment.
Even though CLE can cause significant changes to the skin, it is rarely life-threatening in dogs and can be well controlled with treatment. SLE can affect many organs and structures in the body, leading to more complications and requiring long-term treatment. Even with treatment, prognosis can be guarded.
Dr. Dwight Alleyne
SLE in dogs is an AID where a dogs’ antibodies fight against their own tissues as if they are foreign. Since it targets immunity, SLE can have domino effects on several of the body’s other systems. While definitive causes of SLE are still being studied, genetic and environmental factors are thought to play a role.
German Shepherds, Shetland Sheepdogs, Afghan Hounds, Irish Wolfhounds, Collies, Poodles, and Beagles are all breeds predisposed to SLE.
Sometimes called “the great imitator,” lupus can be difficult to diagnose in dogs. Signs can take many forms and often mimic other conditions and autoimmune diseases, including pemphigus. General symptoms like lethargy, decreased appetite, or weight loss can occur. However, the disease can also affect specific systems and parts of the body.
Symptoms can be chronic and progressive but often appear suddenly. Some of the more common signs of SLE in dogs include:
If your pup is experiencing any of these symptoms and you’re unsure why, you should visit your veterinarian right away. While there’s currently no single method to detect SLE, doctors can perform a series of diagnostic exams, including blood tests, to pinpoint the problem.
Doctors also rely on antinuclear antibody (ANA) tests to help determine if your pup has SLE. But, false positives and negatives can occur. Since SLE can affect different body parts, vets may also perform an X-ray to examine joints or an ultrasound to monitor kidney damage.
Generally, vets will prescribe immunosuppressive medications to combat SLE. Corticosteroids like prednisone are effective at treating milder cases. Sometimes, though, stronger immunosuppressants, such as cyclophosphamide or azathioprine, may be prescribed. Doctors can also treat secondary skin infections, like staph, with a course of antibiotics. Lastly, avoiding UV light exposure from the sun can help treatment in some cases.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for SLE, so dogs often require lifelong treatment. The disease is chronic and progressive, and the prognosis is sadly poor when left unaddressed. But, catching SLE early gives owners a chance to manage symptoms and maintain a happy lifestyle for their pets.
If you notice any signs of lupus in your dog, take them to the vet right away. CLE (most commonly DLE) is more common in dogs than SLE. But, both types require life-long treatment. Early detection and ongoing vet care are crucial to maintain the quality of life for your dog.
Yes. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) are the two main forms of canine lupus. Though both are rare, SLE is more severe.
Symptoms of CLE include crusting, lesions, and discoloration of the nose. SLE affects other organs, like the skin, joints, and kidneys, and can cause symptoms including lethargy, appetite loss, hair loss, joint inflammation, increased urination, and more.
Lupus treatment depends on the severity of symptoms. Immunosuppressant medication is the most common treatment option for pups with lupus.
With the proper vet care and treatment, a dog with lupus can have a normal life expectancy. The prognosis varies greatly between the types of lupus and each individual dog. If left untreated, lupus can lead to death. Sometimes, dogs pass away from the disease even with treatment.
There is great debate among vets and scientists about what triggers lupus in dogs. The truth is, we don’t really know. Some say stress, while others say vaccines or surgery can trigger AID. However, some breeds appear more prone to developing lupus regardless.
