Companion Animals

Dog Canine Herpesvirus Neonatal Welfare

Canine herpesvirus causes high mortality in neonatal puppies and significant welfare impact in affected litters, requiring breeding management to prevent outbreaks.

Key Facts

Canine herpesvirus kills puppies under 3 weeks of age causing 'fading puppy syndrome'
The virus replicates in puppies' lower body temperature environment which puppies cannot regulate
Keeping puppies warm (29-32 degrees Celsius) prevents viral replication and reduces mortality
Dams can be vaccinated during pregnancy to provide passive maternal immunity to puppies
Recovered puppies may develop neurological deficits affecting long-term welfare

Welfare Considerations

Herpesvirus neonatal mortality causes severe suffering for affected puppies and distress for breeders and dams. Temperature management and vaccination are practical prevention strategies.

What You Can Do

Maintain puppy room temperature at 29-32 degrees Celsius for the first three weeks of life
Vaccinate breeding bitches against canine herpesvirus before each pregnancy
Isolate pregnant bitches from other dogs in the last 3 weeks of pregnancy and first 3 weeks after whelping