Anaplasmosis in Dogs: Signs, Treatment, and Prevention

Anaplasmosis is an infection caused by bacteria. It’s spread mainly by black-legged ticks (deer ticks) and the western blacklegged tick and are most common in the Northeast, Upper Midwest, and along the West Coast. 

Some dogs with anaplasmosis don’t show any signs at all, while others may experience vague illness symptoms, such as: 

• Lethargy 
• Fever 
• Decreased appetite 
• Limping 
• Vomiting 
• Diarrhea 

Less commonly, dogs may develop more serious symptoms, such as seizures, unusual bleeding, or bruising. 

Infected ticks are the only cause of anaplasmosis in dogs. To transmit the bacteria, ticks must attach and feed for 24–48 hours. Most dogs start showing symptoms about one to two weeks after being bitten by an infected tick.  

While any dog can get anaplasmosis, active dogs who spend time outdoors, especially in wooded or grassy areas, are at higher risk. Dogs who aren’t on year-round flea and tick prevention are also more likely to become infected.  

Because anaplasmosis symptoms can look like a lot of other illnesses, your veterinarian will rely on lab testing to make a diagnosis. These tests include: 

• Physical exam 
• Blood work to assess overall health and to look for cellular changes  
• In-house blood test to detect exposure to tick-borne diseases 

If your pet’s blood sample is positive for Anaplasma antibodies, it means they’ve been exposed to the bacteria. To confirm the infection, your vet may recommend additional testing, such as: 

• Urinalysis 
• Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing 

Anaplasmosis in dogs can sound scary, but the good news is that treatment is usually straightforward and very effective. Treatment may include: 

• Antibiotics (typically) 
• Pain medications, if necessary 
• Fluid therapy, if necessary 
• Steroids, in severe cases 

Antibiotics for anaplasmosis in dogs are typically given for at least one month. In some cases, dogs may have more than one tick-borne disease at the same time, which can mean a longer course of antibiotics than the standard four-week treatment. 

Fortunately, anaplasmosis usually responds well to doxycycline. Many dogs start to feel better within 24–48 hours, though some may take up to one week to show improvement.   

Dogs with anaplasmosis may feel achy, stiff, tired, and feverish. Providing thoughtful at-home care during their recovery can help them rest and heal. Here’s how: 

• Make rest more comfortable. A soft, supportive orthopedic bed can promote better rest by evenly supporting the joints and body. Choose one that’s the right size and easy for your dog to step in and out of. 

• Make mealtime easier. Elevated bowls make eating more comfortable by reducing the need to bend down and put extra weight on sore joints. 

• Make medication time less stressful. If your dog isn’t a fan of taking pills, try hiding doxycycline in a tasty, moldable treat made for wrapping medication. Rotating flavors can help keep things interesting. 

Preventing anaplasmosis starts with keeping ticks from biting and feeding on your dog. Here are some simple ways to protect your dog: 

• Use year-round flea and tick protection. Your veterinarian can recommend the best option for your dog, such as Simparica Trio, Credelio, or Bravecto. 

• Add extra protection when needed. You can also help deter ticks with topical coat sprays, pet-friendly yard treatments, and pet accessories.  

• Check your dog after outdoor time. Always check your dog for ticks after they’ve been in wooded or grassy areas. 
• Remove ticks quickly and safely. If you find a tick on your dog, removing it right away can help lower their risk of infection. Tick removal tools, such as Tweezerman tweezers and ZenPet’s Tick Tornado, make detaching ticks easy for you and your dog while also protecting you from direct contact.  

• Monitor bites and follow up if needed. After removing a tick, keep an eye on the bite for several days and contact your veterinarian if you notice persistent swelling or irritation. 

How serious is anaplasmosis in dogs? 

Anaplasmosis infection can make some dogs very sick, while others experience no clinical signs. Treated dogs generally make a full recovery, although reinfection can happen.  

What are the long-term effects of anaplasmosis in dogs? 

Dogs who receive veterinary care and complete the full course of treatment usually do not experience any long-term effects.  

Is anaplasmosis in dogs contagious to humans? 

No. People can’t catch anaplasmosis directly from dogs. It only spreads through the bite of an infected tick.  

Can dogs get anaplasmosis more than once? 

Yes. Dogs can get anaplasmosis more than once. Review your dog’s tick prevention plan with your veterinarian after they’re first diagnosed. 

Is anaplasmosis curable in dogs? 

Dogs who receive the recommended antibiotic therapy generally make a full recovery. However, they may continue to test positive for anaplasmosis.