The disease was first detected in Australian dogs in May in the Kimberley area of WA and June in the Northern Territory.

Ehrlichiosis is a disease dogs can contract when bitten by a brown dog tick infected with the bacteria, Ehrlichia canis. The disease can be fatal to dogs if left untreated.

DPIRD is conducting surveillance for the disease and has restricted dogs moving out of northern WA to reduce the risk of the disease spreading to southern WA.

DPIRD chief veterinary officer Michelle Rodan said surveillance has also found four cases in South Hedland, WA, as well as one case as far south as Carnarvon, WA.

Signs that may be present in dogs infected by Ehrlichiosis disease include fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, weight loss and unusual bleeding or bruising.

"Visitors to the Kimberley, Pilbara and Gascoyne areas of WA should be aware of the risk to their dogs from Ehrlichiosis and should visit their vet for advice on a suitable tick treatment before travelling to the region," Rodan said.

"Owners in affected areas are encouraged to treat their dogs for ticks regularly, as well as their bedding and the yard and to check their dogs for ticks daily, especially around the neck, head, ears, armpits, belly and in between the toes," Rodan said.

If your dog is showing symptoms of Ehrlichiosis disease contact, your private vet or the local DPIRD vet.