Canine herpesvirus

Canine herpesvirus 1 ( CHV -1) or canine herpes virus is a DNA virus specific for dogs. The 120-200 nm, enveloped virus was discovered in connection with the puppies dying described for the first time in 1965.

Infection occurs via absorption through the mucous membranes of the mouth and nose, rarely also when mating. Like all herpesviruses, it tends to a lifelong persistence in infected animal in which it withdraws into nervous knots. Event of a temporary weakening of the immune system may be re- spread in the animal and are excreted again. The virus is poorly immunogenic, ie causes a low antibody response.

The infection resolves in older animals only mild respiratory infections and is involved in the so-called kennel cough complex. Bitches with first infection during pregnancy can transmit the virus to pups in the womb, which can lead to death of the puppy and so stillbirths. Upon infection of the pups at birth or during the first two to three weeks of life, it comes to deadly disease progression in Saugwelpen ( " puppy dying ").

In addition, the CHV -1 has been associated with various ocular disorders.