Can Dogs Get Colds?
It’s a familiar sound: the sniffle, the sneeze, the cough. When we feel under the weather, we know the drill. But what about our four-legged companions? Hearing your dog cough or sneeze brings up an immediate, worrying question for many pet owners: can dogs get colds? The answer is yes, though it’s not quite the same as the "common cold" humans experience.
Can Dogs Get the Common Cold?
First, let's clear up a common misconception. The viruses that cause the common cold in humans (like rhinoviruses) are typically species-specific. This means you are highly unlikely to pass your cold to your dog, and your dog's cold is not contagious to you.
However, dogs can and do get their own versions of a "cold." These are typically upper respiratory infections (URIs) caused by a variety of viruses and bacteria. Just like in humans, these infections are generally mild and self-limiting, but they can still make your dog feel pretty miserable. These dog-specific "colds" are highly contagious between dogs, spreading through airborne droplets from coughing or sneezing, or via shared items like toys and water bowls.
7 Common Dog Cold Symptoms to Watch For
When a dog catches a respiratory bug, the signs are often very similar to what we experience. If your dog is feeling unwell, you might observe a cluster of these symptoms.
- Sneezing: Occasional sneezing is normal, but a sudden increase or persistent sneezing can be a sign of irritation in the nasal passages.
- Runny Nose: You may notice a clear, watery discharge from your dog's nose. If this discharge becomes thick, yellow, or green, it often signals a bacterial infection that may require veterinary attention.
-
Coughing: This is a hallmark symptom. It might be a dry, hacking cough or a wetter, more productive-sounding cough. It's often more pronounced after exercise or when pulling on a leash.
Instagram: poppydappleseed - Watery Eyes: Similar to the runny nose, you might see a clear, watery discharge from the eyes.
- Lethargy: Your typically playful pup may seem tired, sluggish, and uninterested in their usual activities like walks or playing fetch. They may sleep more than usual.
- Mild Fever: A dog's normal temperature is higher than ours (around 101 to 102.5°F or 38.3 to 39.2°C). A fever might be hard to detect without a thermometer, but other signs like lethargy and shivering can be clues.
- Loss of Appetite: A stuffy nose can dull a dog's sense of smell, which is a major driver of appetite. They may eat less or seem pickier than usual.
What Causes Colds in Dogs? 5 Main Triggers
A "dog cold" isn't one specific disease. It's a general term for a group of infections. Several different pathogens can be the culprit, and sometimes more than one is involved.
- Canine Parainfluenza Virus: This is a highly contagious virus and one of the most common causes of kennel cough (which is essentially a type of canine cold or bronchitis). It attacks the cells lining the respiratory tract.
-
Canine Adenovirus Type-2: This is another virus that can cause respiratory symptoms. It is part of the core vaccination schedule for dogs and is also related to infectious canine hepatitis (caused by adenovirus type-1).
Instagram: dakotabear_n_daisy_thepoms - Bordetella bronchiseptica: This is a bacterium, not a virus, and it's the primary cause of kennel cough. It can cause inflammation in the trachea and bronchi, leading to that harsh, honking cough.
- Canine Respiratory Coronavirus: This is not the same virus that causes COVID-19 in humans. This particular coronavirus causes mild respiratory symptoms in dogs.
- Environmental Stressors: While not a direct cause, factors like being in a cold or damp environment, stress (from boarding or travel), or exposure to dust and smoke can weaken a dog's immune system, making them more susceptible to picking up one of these infections.
How to Treat Dog Colds
For a mild dog cold, supportive care at home is often all that is needed, much like you would for yourself. The goal is to keep your dog comfortable and help their immune system do its job.
Focus on rest. Limit strenuous activity; swap long runs for short, calm leash walks for bathroom breaks. Ensure they have a warm, dry, and comfortable place to sleep, away from drafts.
Hydration is crucial. Make sure fresh, clean water is always available. If your dog is reluctant to drink, you can try enticing them with ice cubes or adding a small amount of low-sodium chicken or beef broth to their water bowl.
A humidifier placed near your dog's sleeping area can add moisture to the air, which helps soothe dry, irritated nasal passages and airways. You can also bring your dog into the bathroom with you while you run a hot shower; the steam will have a similar effect.
Gently wipe away any discharge from your dog's nose or eyes with a soft, damp cloth. This helps keep them comfortable and clean. If their appetite is poor, try warming up their food slightly to release more aroma, or offer a bland diet (like plain boiled chicken and rice) for a day or two, assuming your vet approves.
Never, ever give your dog human cold medications. Many ingredients, like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, are highly toxic to dogs.
When Should Your Dog Be Seen By a Vet
While most dog colds resolve on their own within 5 to 10 days, it's essential to monitor your pet closely. Some infections can progress to more serious conditions like pneumonia, especially in vulnerable dogs.
Contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice any of the following "red flag" symptoms:
- Difficulty Breathing: This includes labored breathing, rapid breathing, or excessive panting even while at rest.
- A Persistent "Honking" Cough: This specific sound is strongly associated with kennel cough, which may require medication.
-
Worsening Symptoms: If your dog seems to be getting sicker instead of better after a few days.
Instagram: chihuahuazucht - Refusal to Eat or Drink: Skipping one meal might be fine, but a lack of appetite or water intake for more than 24 hours is a concern.
- Thick, Colored Discharge: Yellow or green discharge from the nose or eyes indicates a likely bacterial infection.
- Extreme Lethargy: If your dog is unresponsive or you cannot rouse them for normal activities.
- A High Fever: A temperature above 104°F (40°C) is a definite sign to call the vet.
Certain dogs are at higher risk for complications. These include puppies, senior dogs, dogs with pre-existing health conditions, and brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds like Pugs, Bulldogs, and Boxers, as their compressed airways already make breathing more challenging.
How to Prevent Colds in Dogs
You can't bubble-wrap your dog, but you can take several practical steps to reduce their risk of catching a respiratory infection.
Vaccination is a key line of defense. Talk to your veterinarian about the "kennel cough" vaccine, which often protects against Bordetella and parainfluenza. While not 100% effective (much like the human flu shot), it can significantly reduce the severity of illness if your dog is exposed.
Avoid close contact with dogs that are visibly sick. If you know a dog is coughing or sneezing, keep your dog away. This is especially important in high-traffic dog areas like dog parks, daycare facilities, and boarding kennels.
Practice good hygiene. Regularly wash your dog's food and water bowls, bedding, and toys. If you've been around a sick dog, wash your hands and change your clothes before interacting with your own pet.
Finally, support their overall immune system. A high-quality diet, regular exercise, keeping stress levels low, and ensuring your dog is warm and dry after being out in cold or wet weather all contribute to a robust immune system that is better equipped to fight off germs.
Is it a Dog Cold or Something Else?
One of the most challenging things for an owner is distinguishing a simple cold from a more serious issue.
- Kennel Cough: While technically a "cold," this is a specific type of bronchitis. The telltale sign is a persistent, forceful, dry cough that sounds like a "honk." It's often triggered by excitement or pressure on the throat.
-
Canine Influenza (Dog Flu): This is a more severe respiratory infection. It typically causes a higher fever, deeper cough, and more significant lethargy than a common cold.
Instagram: imbanditthecavapoo - Allergies: Seasonal or environmental allergies can also cause sneezing, a runny nose, and watery eyes. However, allergies are less likely to cause a fever or lethargy. They are often accompanied by other signs, like itchy skin or paws.
- Serious Conditions: A cough can also be a symptom of much more serious underlying problems, such as pneumonia, heart disease, a collapsing trachea, or even a foreign object lodged in the throat.
Because the symptoms overlap so much, it is impossible to know for sure what is wrong with your dog without a professional diagnosis. Your vet can perform an examination and, if necessary, run tests to rule out more serious conditions and recommend the appropriate treatment.
FAQs about a Dog's Cold
Can I get a cold from my dog, or can my dog get my cold?
This is extremely unlikely. The viruses and bacteria that cause "colds" in dogs are different from the ones that infect humans. These illnesses are generally not transmissible between species.
How long do dog colds last?
A mild dog cold will typically run its course in 5 to 10 days. If symptoms persist longer than that or seem to be getting worse, a vet visit is necessary.
What can I give my dog for a cold?
Do not give your dog any over-the-counter human cold medication. The best things you can provide are supportive care: rest, warmth, plenty of water, and a comfortable environment. A humidifier can also help ease congestion. If you are concerned, call your vet for advice.
Your Partner in Pet Health
Watching your dog feel unwell is never easy. While the question "can dogs get colds?" has a "yes" answer, the good news is that most cases are mild and resolve with simple supportive care at home. Your main role is to monitor them closely for any signs of distress or worsening symptoms. When in doubt, always trust your instincts and call your veterinarian. They are your best partner in ensuring your companion stays happy and healthy.
