Lyme Disease Symptoms in a Bichon Frise

Lyme disease, also known as borreliosis, is a tick-borne disease that effects all breeds of dogs. The Occurrence of the disease has nothing to do with the genetic makeup of the breed. According to the Bichon Health Organization, Lyme disease and its symptoms are no more prevalent or different in Bichon Frises than they are in any other dog.

  1. Fever and Lethargy

    • The most common symptoms of a dog with an active Lyme disease is a fever between 103 and 105 degrees Fahrenheit, or the appearance of just not feeling right. You'll notice that your dog seems less energetic, or more tired or aloof. Some dogs exhibit a loss of appetite or develop swollen lymph glands that can be felt at veterinary examination.

    Joint Swelling and Lameness

    • A stiff gait or lameness on one or more legs is a common symptom of Lyme disease. The joints may feel swollen to you or your veterinarian. Some owners report that their dogs look like they are walking on eggshells or that they limp intermittently enough to be dismissed at first notice. While your dog may have symptoms that differ slightly from another dog's, muscle or joint pain is frequently reported and noticeable even in a breed as heavily coated as the Bichon.

    Kidney Disease

    • According to the veterinarians at www.Pet Education.com, one of the less common effects of Lyme disease is kidney disease, which, in advanced stages, can lead to death. If your dog has tested positively for Lyme disease, ask your veterinarian to perform annual broad-spectrum blood tests and urinalysis to ensure that kidney values remain within normal range.