Cross Breeds

Are ferrets a danger to newborn puppies? Can the puppies catch any diseases from a ferret?

I really need to know because I just got a new ferret as a gift and a few weeks ago my chihuahua gave birth to puppies. I wouldn't want them to get sick or die from my new ferret...Please help!

Public Comments

1. I have seen a full grown Collie desperately run from a ferret that was attacking it. The Collie was only safe once it landed in the lap of its owner's father and the ferret could not get it.
2. Assuming your new ferret was vaccinated (if it came from a pet shop it had to be) then there is no disease risk. Ferrets can get both rabies and canine distemper but a vaccinated and healthy ferret would pose no risk of either of those. As for being a danger to newborm puppies the ferret could be a physical danger to them especially a breed this small. Ferrets are natural hunters of small animals and quite a few domestic pets still have that instinct well intact. They have been known to harm or kill young kittens so could easily pose a danger to small Chihuahua puppies as well.
3. Ferret diseases generally are different than dog diseases. Only the major ones are the same. Though a ferret can get the human flu but a dog cannot.
4. the ferrets i own are VERY fearless, and will attempt to attack my two dogs. you need to get them introduced by switching something like a blanket or pad that they sleep on with each other, so they get familiarized with their smells. then, under carfull supervision, put them together in the same room. if they try to attack one another, never leave them alone while you are away. I dont know of any diseases from a ferret to a dog, but this website could help you with the ferret disease thing? http://www.petmd.com/ferret/topiccenter