Brucella canis is a bacterial infection that primarily affects dogs and can, in rare cases, pose a risk to people.
It remains uncommon in the UK but is more frequently associated with dogs that have been imported from abroad, travelled to certain regions, or have been bred with or from imported dogs (particularly those originating from parts of Eastern and Southern Europe, Asia, Africa, and Central and South America). There has been an increase in the number of dogs being diagnosed with Brucella canis in the U.K over recent years with 3 diagnoses pre-2020 and 84 diagnoses in the first 3 months of 2025 alone.
Many infected dogs show no obvious signs, which is why careful screening and risk-based checks are sometimes recommended. For most pet owners, the risk to people is very low, and routine contact with dogs does not pose a concern. Where specific precautions are advised, our team will explain these clearly and sensitively.
Why is Brucella canis being discussed now?
Some owners may understandably wonder why Brucella canis testing is being raised now, particularly if their dog was imported several years ago and has been registered with us for some time.
Awareness of Brucella canis in the UK has increased in recent years as surveillance has improved and more information has become available nationally. As a result, veterinary guidance has evolved. Dogs imported in the past were not always routinely tested, because the infection was previously considered extremely rare in the UK. This change in testing advice just reflects how the situation has evolved over time, as is the case with many infectious diseases. Our aim is simply to review risk thoughtfully and proportionately, based on the best information available today.
How we are approaching Brucella canis
Our priority is to keep pets, owners, and our teams safe while ensuring every dog continues to receive compassionate, appropriate care.
If your dog has been imported, has travelled abroad to a higher-risk area, or may have been exposed through activities such as breeding, or shares a home with such a dog, we may recommend a stepwise approach that can include:
- An individual risk assessment, considering your dog’s history, health status, neuter status, travel history, and any known contact with other dogs.
- Screening tests, where appropriate. This usually involves a simple blood sample.
- Practical precautions within the practice, such as the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) by our teams or reduced-contact handling. These measures are precautionary and help us keep everyone safe.
- Minor adjustments to appointments, such as asking you to wait in a specific area or outside with your dog or adjusting how and when certain procedures are carried out.
These measures are not a judgement on your dog and do not mean your dog is suspected of being unwell - they are simply sensible precautions while information is gathered.
What does testing involve?
Testing involves a blood test, in routine cases sent to an external laboratory. Most dogs that travel abroad or are imported remain healthy and test negative, but the background risk is higher than in the UK, which is why additional checks are recommended in dogs meeting certain criteria. If a result is negative, we will explain what this means for your dog’s ongoing care and whether any further action is needed (often, none).
If a test is positive
If your dog tests positive, or if results suggest a higher level of risk, we will work closely with you to plan next steps. This may include:
- Talking you through the results in detail and answering all your questions.
- Discussing confirmatory testing where appropriate.
- Tailoring how your dog is examined and cared for in the practice to ensure safety.
- Providing clear guidance on managing your dog at home to protect people and other pets.
We understand that this can be worrying, particularly for owners who have adopted or imported dogs with limited background history. Any recommendations will be discussed sensitively, transparently, and with your involvement at every stage.
Risk to people
Human infection with Brucella canis is rare. The highest risk of transmission is associated with direct contact with bodily fluids. While the risk to owners of neutered, non-breeding pets living normal family lives is considered low, Brucella canis is a lifelong infection in dogs, with potential for intermittent shedding and transmission. As a result, management of infected dogs is challenging, and decisions must consider animal welfare, the risk to other dogs, and public health considerations.
If any specific precautions are recommended for your household, your veterinary team will explain these clearly and in context.
We’re here to help
If you have questions about your dog’s risk, testing, or any recommendations made, please speak to your veterinary team. Decisions are made in partnership with you, and we are always happy to talk things through.
Trusted sources of further information
- Brucella canis: Information for the public and dog owners
- British Veterinary Association: Brucella canis
- NHS: Brucellosis - NHS
