Leishmaniosis in dogs: diagnosis and prevention

Leishmaniosis requires diagnosis and staging before management is defined. Prevention and monitoring must be tailored to the individual dog’s risk.

Transmission and risk

Leishmania infantum is transmitted mainly by sand flies. Vector distribution and activity depend on the area and climatic conditions and should not be explained using invented seasonal cycles.

Less common routes do not justify absolute statements about transmission.

Diagnosis and staging

Skin signs, weight loss and lymph node or kidney abnormalities may require investigation. Tests and results must be interpreted together, and staging guides prognosis and monitoring.

There is no single protocol suitable for every dog.

Integrated prevention

Reducing exposure, using authorised repellents and vaccination where appropriate can all contribute to prevention. The product and schedule are selected with the veterinarian.

Sources and document updates

This information is general and does not replace diagnosis, prescription or instructions from a veterinarian. For a medicine, the summary of product characteristics or package leaflet for the specific presentation is authoritative.

• LeishVet — LeishVet factsheets (accessed 24/07/2026)
• ESCCAP — GL5 - Vector-borne diseases in dogs and cats (accessed 24/07/2026)
• Union Product Database — Veterinary medicines authorised in the European Union (accessed 24/07/2026)

Editorial transparency: sources are provided to allow the documents to be checked. Professional review is only declared after genuine approval by a qualified, identifiable person.