Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!
Become a member today!
Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
Already a member? Sign in
Become a credit card member today!
Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
when you use Petco Pay!
APPLY NOW
Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

How do puppies get distemper? Can they catch it without dog contact?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 3 months old

How does a puppy contract distemper? Does it have to be near a dog with it?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Paula Simons

Veterinarian

Published on February 12th, 2017

Your puppy can contract distemper by coming in contact with other dogs that are infected, objects that have been contaminated by infected dogs, or it can be transmitted by wildlife such as raccoons.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Distemper is highly contagious and is spread through the air, and by direct and indirect contact with an infected animal. Direct or close contact with an infected dog is the most common way it is spread. It's always recommend to keep a puppy away from unvaccinated dogs and dogs of unknown vaccine status until they are fully vaccinated themselves.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on March 25th, 2018
Distemper is a highly contagious disease, and it's passed through the air when an infected dog coughs or sneezes, through sharing of contaminated objects such as food and water bowls as well as toys and blankets, direct contact with an infected animal, and mother to offspring via the placenta.

Rabies is transmitted primarily through a bite from a carrier of the disease. It can also be transmitted through a scratch or when infected saliva makes contact with mucous membranes or an open, fresh wound.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Smart Picks for Smart Questions

Related Questions

Can vaccinated dog pass distemper to unvaccinated dogs after contact?

Vaccinated animals are at a very low risk of acquiring distemper virus and passing it on to other dogs. This is because the virus cannot live without fresh secretions; it is inactivated in minutes outside the dog's body. The infected dog typically infects other dogs via coughing infected respiratory secretions though the virus is shed in most other body secretions, including urine. A dog with distemper, even if recovered from the virus can shed the infection for up to 2-3 months so I would restrict any future contact and monitor for any abnormal clinical signs, including coughing or nasal discharge.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Can a vaccinated dog catch distemper from an infected puppy?

As long as Bruno is fully vaccinated, he should not be in any danger of getting distemper - even if he may have had some brief contact with an infected puppy. The vaccine for this disease is extremely effective, so I wouldn't worry :)

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Can my new puppy get distemper even after I cleaned the house?

While canine distemper can survive in the environment for three to four months, disinfectants can be used to kill the virus. As long as your home has been thoroughly disinfected, your new puppy should be safe in your home.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Health & Wellness

My vaccinated dog was near distemper. Can he get it without contact?

There is always a chance that Shadow could get infected. It is not likely since there was no direct contact. I suggest you get Shadow updated on his vaccinations as soon as possible so you won't have to worry in the future. ( https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4952099 )

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Can distemper in a pregnant dog infect her unborn puppies?

It is likely that your puppies will get infected also if the mother is not yet over the infective stage of the disease. There is also a possibility that a high fever can end the pregnancy. I am sorry. I cannot think of a way to protect the puppies as they are in contact with body fluids when being born. A pregnant dog can pass the distemper virus to her unborn puppies via the placenta. An infected dog or puppy can continue to shed the distemper virus for many months.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

My new dog tested positive for distemper. How to protect my other dogs?

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question. As long as your other dogs are fully vaccinated against distemper, they cannot get it. Make sure they are up to date on their distemper vaccines before introducing Manila to them. I hope this helps!

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Health & Wellness

Is my new puppy safe from distemper after my other dog died?

I am so sorry for your loss. There is a risk for bringing in another puppy so soon after distemper was in your place. Good news is that distemper isn’t a very sturdy virus without a “host” so if you thoroughly cleaned, Rancho will likely be okay but no guarantee. I would throw away any bedding or toys the other dog used. I would also keep a really close eye on your new dog for any symptoms that are concerning. I hope this helps!

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Share