How does a dog get distemper? Dogs contract distemper, a contagious viral disease, primarily through direct contact with infected dogs or wild animals, or by inhaling infectious aerosol particles. Here's a more detailed explanation: Contagious Nature: Canine distemper (CDV) is a highly contagious disease caused by a virus. Transmission: Direct Contact: The virus spreads through direct contact between a susceptible dog and an infected dog, even if the infected dog isn't showing symptoms. Aerosol