Tick-Borne Encephalitis is a high-severity neurological condition that can affect dogs of all ages and breeds. Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a viral neurological disease transmitted by Ixodes ticks, increasingly reported in dogs across Europe and parts of the UK. It causes severe brain and spinal cord inflammation and has a guarded prognosis. It is documented across 1 breed, though prevalence and severity can differ significantly between them. It typically becomes apparent at Any age. Early signs to watch for include fever, neck pain and rigidity, seizures, and ataxia. When treatment is required, costs are estimated at £1,000-£4,000 depending on severity, location, and the specific intervention needed. This page covers symptoms, treatment options, and preventive steps — along with breed-specific information where available.

Signs & Symptoms

The following symptoms are commonly associated with Tick-Borne Encephalitis in dogs. If your dog displays several of these signs, consult your vet promptly — early diagnosis typically leads to better outcomes.

• Fever
• Neck pain and rigidity
• Seizures
• Ataxia
• Behavioural changes
• Progressive neurological deterioration

Treatment Overview

There is no specific antiviral treatment. Supportive care with corticosteroids for inflammation, anticonvulsants for seizures, and IV fluids. A dog-specific TBE vaccine is available in some European countries.

Typical onset: Any age

Prevention & Screening

While not all cases of Tick-Borne Encephalitis can be prevented, the following steps reduce risk or enable earlier intervention:

• Regular tick prevention with licensed products
• Vaccinate if available and in endemic areas
• Check for and promptly remove ticks