What causes Alabama Rot, also known as CRGV (cutaneous and renal glomerular vasculopathy) which vets describe as very rare, is unknown.
They believe it could be bacteria or a toxin.
If a dog contracts Alabama rot there is only a 10% chance it can be saved.
Joshua Walker, a vet at Anderson Moores, said: "We know the disease is associated with increasing rainfall and increasing temperatures in the autumn.
"It might be that the very wet, slightly warmer November has led to a surge in cases - it's important for everyone to be aware of the signs."
Skin lesions are normally found on the feet, legs, chest and abdomen of an affected pet, which can look like bites, sores, wounds or stings.
Some dogs go on to develop life-threatening kidney failure.
Mr Walker said: "If walking in the woods, particularly between November and May when most cases have been reported, as a precaution wash off any areas with mud.
"We don't know if that will prevent the disease but that seems like a reasonable thing to do to try and reduce transmission."
He added: "It's important for everyone to be aware of the signs. If you do see an unexplained lesion, particularly if your dog is unwell, go to you local vets.
"Research is ongoing and we hope a cause will be forthcoming."
Hannah Povey, from Farringdon, Hampshire, warned of the disease's threat after her cocker spaniel Betsy was put down in November.
She has urged dog owner's to "get to know the symptoms".
Any age, sex, or breed of dog can be affected - though to date there have been more cases in Labradors, spaniels and Hungarian vizslas.
The disease was first discovered in the US during the late 1980s. In the UK, cases are mostly seen in winter months.
The following are typical signs of Alabama rot:
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