Can Dogs Get Colds? What Are the Symptoms?

When we get a sudden case of sneezing and sniffles, we typically assume that we’ve caught a common cold. Respiratory illnesses exist in the world around us, just waiting to pounce on us when given the chance. While most humans will catch a cold at least once a year, many wonder if our dogs fall victim to the same fate. Can dogs get colds, and if so, what are the symptoms?

Dogs can certainly catch contagious colds, but there’s a lot of differences between the human cold and a respiratory illness in dogs. We want you to have the tools needed to care for your sneezing canine friend, so let’s discuss everything you need to know about dog colds below.

Let’s get started!

What Is a Cold?

Before we dive into the details of colds in dogs, we should first make sure we are all on the same page when the term ‘cold’ is used. A cold is a mild respiratory illness that can involve sneezing, a runny nose, watery eyes, a sore throat, a headache, and mild coughing. Though some cold’s can progress into more serious respiratory complications, a cold itself is typically considered a mild illness that will resolve on its own.

Can Dogs Catch Colds Like Humans Do?

Now that you understand the details of a cold itself, it’s time to answer the question of whether or not dogs can catch colds like people do. Dogs can fall victim to a variety of contagious bacteria and viruses that cause respiratory symptoms, but it is typically more complicated than catching a simple cold.

When it comes to respiratory illnesses in dogs, there are a variety of agents that can lead to illnesses that mimic the common cold. While some of these illnesses are mild and often resolve on their own, others can lead to serious health complications like pneumonia or organ damage. Due to the fact that some respiratory diseases in dogs can be a major threat to their health, we always suggest taking a dog’s cold more seriously than you would your own.

Cold Symptoms in Dogs – What to Lookout For

As we mentioned above, there are a variety of agents that can cause respiratory symptoms in our canine friends. Though there are many possible causes of a dog cold, let’s list some of the many symptoms you may see in your sick pup.

• Sneezing
• Runny nose
• Congestion
• Watery eyes
• Eye discharge
• Crusting around the nose or eyes
• Coughing
• Decreased appetite
• Fever

If you notice any of the above symptoms in your dog, then they may have been infected with a respiratory illness. While the common cold in humans does not always require a trip to the doctor, we do suggest having your pet assessed by a vet. Respiratory disease in dogs can be due to a variety of agents, some of which can cause serious health complications. For this reason, it’s best to have them examined by a vet.

Most Common Causes of Colds in Dogs

Now that you know that our beloved dogs can catch their own version of a cold, let’s list a few of the most common agents behind respiratory disease in dogs. Ranging from minor illness to major health threats, let’s break them down!

Kennel Cough: Kennel cough is a blanket term used to describe any contagious illness that mainly causes coughing in dogs, but it can cause other cold symptoms as well. Kennel cough is known to cause a signature honking cough, and it often develops within days of being in a public setting with other canine friends. Some of the agents that cause kennel cough include Bordetella bronchiseptica, pseudomonas, mycoplasma, and more. There is a vaccine that protects against Bordetella bronchiseptica, but it does not protect against other kennel cough agents.

Canine Influenza: Canine influenza is often referred to as the dog flu. It is a highly contagious virus that spreads in public settings with other dogs. The symptoms can range in severity from dog to dog. The most common strains are H3N8 and H3N2. There are vaccines that can help to protect dogs against this flu virus. However, due to the fact that these strains can mutate, your dog may still fall victim to flu-like illness.

Canine Distemper: Canine distemper is a deadly viral disease that can begin with minor respiratory symptoms. Though it may begin as nasal discharge and crusty eyes, pups will soon develop a fatal systemic infection.  Canine distemper leads to multisystem complications, often targeting the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and central nervous systems. With impacting so many vital systems throughout the body, distemper is often fatal, even with treatment.

As you can see, cold symptoms in dogs can point to everything from minor illness to life-threatening issues. For this reason, we always suggest having your pup with cold symptoms assessed by a vet.

Can Dogs Catch a Cold from Humans?

While it is not impossible for dogs to catch a contagious respiratory disease from humans, it is very unlikely. If your dog develops cold symptoms, it is likely she has caught a contagious canine illness from another dog friend. So next time you have a cold, you do not need to worry about spreading it to your dog.

I Think My Dog Has a Cold – What Should I Do?

If your dog is experiencing cold symptoms, then we always suggest having them examined by your trusted vet. As you can see, there are a list of agents that can cause respiratory symptoms in our canine companions. Your vet can rule out any serious causes of your dog’s cold symptoms. He can offer you the best tools to help your baby recover.

When you do take your dog with a cold to the vet, you can typically expect a few things. First, your vet will ask you about your dog’s behavior at home. Your vet will ask about symptoms, as well as appetite, energy levels, and any other concerning changes.

Once they get the answers to their questions, they will then perform a physical exam. This exam will involve listening to your dog’s heart and lungs, and checking for any abnormalities in their lung sounds. For example, if your dog has developed pneumonia, they may hear abnormal breath sounds.

And last, your vet may suggest performing chest x-rays. This can check for any complications like pneumonia or fluid in the lungs. Your vet can jump into action if your pup has something serious going on.

How To Treat a Cold in Dogs

The best treatment for a cold in dogs will vary based on the underlying cause of their symptoms. However, there are a few methods that have proven to be effective in helping dogs overcome a minor respiratory disease.

• Prescription cough suppressants from your vet (never use human medication)
• Use a humidifier in the room your dog spends most of their time, especially when sleeping
• Limit physical activity until their cough resolves
• Make sure they are drinking plenty of fluids
• Make sure they are still eating, and if not, try offering them chicken breast and white rice
• Wash blankets and bedding frequently in case they are shedding anything infectious

If your dog is suffering from a serious respiratory complication, then we suggest following your vet’s guidance. They are the only ones that understand the details of your dog’s condition, so they will know what is best for your little one.

We hope your little one with a cold makes a speedy recovery!

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