Leishmaniosis in a dog that has never left Germany
3-year-old Boxer living in northern Germany that has never travelled. It has exfoliative dermatitis, lymphadenomegaly and proteinuria, and leishmaniosis is confirmed. Its dam was adopted from a shelter in Andalusia and is seropositive. It has never had a transfusion.
What is the most likely route of infection?
chevron_right Show answer and explanation
A. Bites from sand flies native to northern Germany
There are no established populations of competent vectors in northern Europe; some species occur sporadically in central Europe, but they do not explain this case with an infected dam.
B. Transmission through bites while playing with other dogs
Direct transmission by bites has been suspected anecdotally but is not proven to be a relevant route. With a seropositive dam there is a far more likely explanation.
C. Vertical (transplacental) transmission from the dam
Correct. Vertical transmission is documented in dogs, especially in non-endemic areas where the vector can be ruled out. Other non-vectorial routes are blood transfusion and possibly venereal transmission.
D. Ingestion of contaminated imported raw meat
Leishmania is not transmitted through meat: it is an intracellular parasite of macrophages that needs the vector or direct transfer of blood or tissues.
lightbulb Key takeaway
In endemic areas blood donors must be seronegative and PCR-negative for Leishmania. Breeding from infected bitches is not recommended. In a dog with leishmaniosis from a non-endemic area, ask about the dam's origin, transfusions and travel.
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Updated: October 31, 2026 · Educational content for veterinary professionals. It does not replace current clinical guidelines or the judgement of the attending veterinarian.