Definition

Noun: A highly contagious, often fatal viral disease that primarily affects young dogs. It is characterized by symptoms including high fever, respiratory inflammation, coughing, nasal discharge, and often progresses to involve the gastrointestinal and nervous systems.

Usage

The term "canine distemper" is used specifically in veterinary and general contexts to refer to this serious illness in dogs and other canids. - The puppy was diagnosed with canine distemper and required intensive care. - Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent canine distemper.

Advanced Usage

• As a subject of study: The term is commonly used in veterinary medicine, virology, and animal welfare discussions.
  • Research into canine distemper has helped develop more effective vaccines.

Variants and Related Words

• Distemper: While "distemper" alone can refer to this disease, it is also a general term for various disorders in animals. Using "canine distemper" is more precise for the viral disease in dogs.
• Hard pad disease: An informal, older name for canine distemper, referring to a hardening of the footpads that can occur in later stages.

Synonyms

• Dog distemper
• Canine morbillivirus infection (the technical virological term)

Related Phrases/Idioms

There are no common idioms or phrasal verbs using "canine distemper" as it is a specific medical term.

Noun

1. a viral disease of young dogs characterized by high fever and respiratory inflammation