Whether you’ve got a sniffle or something more serious, you may be worried about the potential risks for your four-legged friend. We’ve put together this guide to tell you everything you need to know about dog colds and flu to help you better understand your pet.
When the trees start to lose their leaves and we have to defrost the car each morning, we know one thing for certain – cold and flu season is on the way. This has just become a natural fact for humans and we’re no stranger to stock piling tissues and tablets, but what about our four-legged friends?
Can dogs get colds?
No, dogs don’t get colds in the same way that humans do and they cannot catch the cold virus that causes symptoms in humans. However, dogs can get infections that create symptoms like a cold, such as sneezing and congestion. In general, these ‘dog colds’ are specific to that species, so you won’t be able to catch the same cold as your dog either.
Can dogs catch a cold from humans?
It is very unlikely that your dog will contract a cold from a human. If you have a sniffle or cough, you may be worried that you may pass the cold onto your companion, but you’ll be glad to know that this isn’t possible. Dogs are not affected by the common cold virus that infects humans.
Can dogs get the flu?
Dogs also can’t get the same type of flu as humans, but they can get canine flu. The symptoms are relatively similar to flu in humans but have a different cause. Your dog may experience the following: sneezing, runny nose, coughing, lethargy, lack of appetite and fever. Dog flu is easily spread between other canines once they’ve been exposed to the illness, and according to Pets Web MD, if your dog is exposed to an infected dog, the chances of them getting it are very high.
And while humans can’t get ill from dog flu, if you’ve been in contact with an infected dog, there is a possibility that you could pass it onto your dog too. Dog flu can live for a few minutes on your skin, but up to a day on your clothes. If you’re around an infected dog, make sure you change and wash your clothes before you see any other dogs.
Other dog specific illnesses:
Just like in humans, there’s a variety of conditions that might seem like dog colds and flu, a few of the most common are as follows:
- Kennel cough: a respiratory infection characterised by a dry cough which will sound like a honking. If you think your dog has kennel cough, contact your vet right away.
- Dog allergies: your four-legged friend can suffer from seasonal and environmental allergies, similar to how humans get hay-fever.
- Canine distemper: Your dog should be vaccinated against this with their initial puppy vaccinations. Canine distemper can be life threatening, which is one of the many reasons it’s incredibly important for your dog to be vaccinated.
- Respiratory conditions: some dog breeds are more likely to suffer from respiratory conditions than others, in particular, brachycephalic breeds like Pugs, French Bulldogs and Shih Tzus.
If you think your dog has kennel cough, contact your vet right away.
Does your dog have a cold? Dog cold symptoms to watch out for
Dog cold symptoms are very similar to a human cold. The most common signs are sneezing, coughing, watery eyes, runny or congested nose and lethargy. However, these can be symptoms of illnesses other than colds, so it’s important to ask your vet for advice.
You might also notice your dog having trouble breathing through their nose due to congestion, or even sneezing. It’s also possible for them to have low energy or lethargy when suffering from a cold. They might not be as excited to play and could prefer sleeping more than usual. These can all be symptoms of a cold and could last from 5 to 10 days. You probably won’t need to contact your vet unless you are concerned they are struggling to breathe or are showing other concerning signs such as not eating or drinking.
Should you walk a dog with a cold?
Avoid taking your dog for a walk if they don’t seem interested. Just like us, dogs need time to rest when they’re feeling unwell and although getting some fresh air might seem like a good idea, it’s best to be guided by your dog. A short quiet walk may help them feel brighter, but strenuous exercise can put extra strain on their respiratory tract when it is already inflamed. If they’re unwell it’s worth keeping playtime gentle too.
It's important to avoid contact with other dogs since they can pass on the infection to others, so avoid greetings on walks and playtime with friends. Focus on spending time with them instead, and play low-energy games or practice some tricks like sitting, staying, or shaking paw. They will surely appreciate having some company and keeping them distracted.
How to treat a dog cold or flu
Here are a few things you can do at home to help a dog with a cold get better:
Give your dog warm food
Due to the usual congested nose that accompanies a cold, dogs might not be able to smell the food and enjoy it. A good idea is to warm it. This way the dog food becomes more fragrant and easier for the pup to enjoy.
Use a humidifier
Make it easier for your dog to breathe by increasing the humidity of the air, especially where they sleep.
Keep the dog well hydrated
Dogs suffering from colds need to remain hydrated as part of their recovery. So, don’t forget to check their water bowl and make sure they’re getting plenty of fluids. Chicken soups for dogs are a handy option to help your pup top up their fluid levels.
Allow the dog to get plenty of rest
Keep daily walks at a comfortable pace and avoid excessive exercise while your dog is recovering from a cold. They might even snooze more than usual. This is normal as their body needs plenty of rest during this time.
Wash your dog’s toys and blankets
Get rid of germs by cleaning the dog’s toys, washing blankets and any other items the pup is constantly in contact with.
Your dog may not need treatment as many dogs simply get better on their own. If your dog has only mild ‘dog cold’ symptoms, is eating and drinking as normal and still seems to have the same energy levels, it’s usually no need for concern and they should go back to feeling normal within a few days to a week. If it appears to be more than a mild dog cold and they’re off their food, not drinking, obviously uncomfortable and/or having difficulty breathing, you should contact your vet straight away.
If your vet suspects it’s something serious, they’ll ask you about their dog flu or cold symptoms, do a full examination and may run some diagnostic tests to identify the cause of the problem. The recommended treatment will depend on the outcome of your vet’s diagnosis, but may include: antibiotics, cough suppressants and fluids. Never give your dog cold remedies for human use because these are highly dangerous.
Preventing dog flu and colds
Now you know the answer to can dogs get colds and flu, you may be wondering how you go about preventing it. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to minimise the risk of your pup getting poorly.
Keep their vaccinations up to date
Unfortunately, vaccinations won’t protect your dog from everything, but it can dramatically reduce the risk of them getting certain illnesses like kennel cough. Your pup’s vaccinations will also protect them against parvovirus, canine distemper, leptospirosis and infectious canine hepatitis.
Clean their things regularly
Another thing you can do to prevent the spread of dog colds is to regularly wash their food and water bowls and their favourite toys. This is particularly important if they share with other dogs. Also, make sure that you change their water at least once a day.
Rest is key
On average, dogs will sleep between 12-14 hours a day. To prevent them from falling prey to certain illnesses, always make sure that they’re getting enough sleep.
Feed good quality nutrition
You know the saying “an apple a day keeps the doctor away,” and the same goes for dogs (not necessarily apples, but you get the idea). By feeding your dog a good quality diet that has all the nutrients they need, you can help to boost their immune system and prevent them getting dog colds or flu.
Look out for potential outbreaks
One of the best ways to protect your pup against dog flu is to keep an eye out for any possible outbreaks in your area.
Your local vet will usually alert you to anything of concern and will tell you if there are any further vaccines required, if there are certain areas you should avoid and if your dog should be kept inside for a period of time.