Chagas disease (CD), caused by the protozoan *Trypanosoma cruzi*, is a neglected zoonotic disease affecting various mammalian species, including humans and domestic animals. Dogs play a crucial role in the domestic cycle of *T. cruzi* by acting as reservoirs and facilitating the perpetuation of parasite transmission in endemic areas. Despite significant progress, there is still no vaccine for human or animal CD, and treatment options are limited. This review highlights the importance of dogs as sentinels for CD, emphasizing their role in monitoring the disease's transmission and environmental risks. The complex life cycle of *T. cruzi* involves multiple hosts and transmission routes, including vectorial, oral, and vertical transmission. Dogs can be infected through vectorial transmission or by ingesting contaminated food or water, leading to clinical manifestations similar to those in humans. The diagnosis of CD is challenging due to the heterogeneity of symptoms and the lack of specific diagnostic tools. Serological tests are the primary method for diagnosis, but they have limitations, and molecular techniques are being developed to improve sensitivity and specificity. Treatment options for CD are limited to Benznidazole (BNZ) and Nifurtimox (NFX), which have significant side effects and limited efficacy in the chronic phase. New therapeutic strategies, including drug combinations and novel pharmacological classes, are being explored. The development of effective vaccines is a critical area of research, aiming to integrate prophylactic and therapeutic approaches to control *T. cruzi* transmission and prevent disease progression.Chagas disease (CD), caused by the protozoan *Trypanosoma cruzi*, is a neglected zoonotic disease affecting various mammalian species, including humans and domestic animals. Dogs play a crucial role in the domestic cycle of *T. cruzi* by acting as reservoirs and facilitating the perpetuation of parasite transmission in endemic areas. Despite significant progress, there is still no vaccine for human or animal CD, and treatment options are limited. This review highlights the importance of dogs as sentinels for CD, emphasizing their role in monitoring the disease's transmission and environmental risks. The complex life cycle of *T. cruzi* involves multiple hosts and transmission routes, including vectorial, oral, and vertical transmission. Dogs can be infected through vectorial transmission or by ingesting contaminated food or water, leading to clinical manifestations similar to those in humans. The diagnosis of CD is challenging due to the heterogeneity of symptoms and the lack of specific diagnostic tools. Serological tests are the primary method for diagnosis, but they have limitations, and molecular techniques are being developed to improve sensitivity and specificity. Treatment options for CD are limited to Benznidazole (BNZ) and Nifurtimox (NFX), which have significant side effects and limited efficacy in the chronic phase. New therapeutic strategies, including drug combinations and novel pharmacological classes, are being explored. The development of effective vaccines is a critical area of research, aiming to integrate prophylactic and therapeutic approaches to control *T. cruzi* transmission and prevent disease progression.