As humans, we deal with cold and flu season year after year — but what about our pets? If you’ve ever wondered whether or not dogs can catch colds — or even if your pup can catch a cold from you — you’ve come to the right place.
We’ve put together this guide to tell you everything you need to know — from how to tell if a dog has a cold or the flu, to symptoms to look out for, and what to do about it.
Do Dogs Get Colds or the Flu?
Well, the short answer is no. However, pups can catch infections that have similar symptoms to a human cold. These “dog colds'' are generally referred to as Upper Respiratory Infections, with the most common one being Bordatella Bronchiseptica (Kennel Cough).
Kennel Cough can cause symptoms like sneezing, congestion, watery eyes, runny nose and a hacking cough. It’s transmitted through direct contact with an infected dog, so if your dog has regular contact with other dogs or will be visiting a kennel, it’s advised to get them vaccinated against Kennel Cough.
Some breeds, like Pugs, Chihuahuas, and French Bulldogs, are more likely to suffer from respiratory conditions, so it’s extra important to get these little buddies vaccinated if they’ll be around other dogs.
Can Dogs Catch Human Colds?
As mentioned above, although dogs may display cold-like symptoms, they can't actually catch human colds. So, if you’re sick, you can’t pass your cold onto your dog. And just like dogs can’t catch human colds, we humans can’t catch the viruses that cause Upper Respiratory Infections in dogs. So if your dog gets Kennel Cough, it can’t pass it on to you or your family.
Can Dogs Get The Flu?
In the same way that dogs can't catch the human cold virus, they also can't catch the human flu. They are, however, susceptible to canine influenza, or “dog flu”, which is prominent in the US. Symptoms of canine influenza include fever, lethargy, and lack of appetite.
Like Kennel Cough, canine influenza spreads through direct contact with an infected dog. Also like Kennel Cough, it can pass from dog to dog, but not from dog to human. One important thing to note: if you've been in contact with a dog that has canine influenza, you could potentially pass it onto your dog. So, be sure to wash your hands and change your outfit before interacting with your pup.
Symptoms Of A Dog Cold
“Dog cold” (or Upper Respiratory Infection) symptoms are very similar to a human cold. The most common signs are lethargy, sneezing, coughing, watery eyes, and a runny or congested nose.
You may notice your dog sneezing a lot, or having trouble breathing through their nose. They also might not be as excited to play, and could be sleeping more than usual. Typically, these cold symptoms could last anywhere from 5 to 10 days.
Note that these symptoms of a dog cold can also be signs of other illnesses, so it’s important to ask your vet for advice — especially if you see your pup struggling to breathe, or if they stop eating or drinking.
Should You Walk A Dog With A Cold?
Just like us, dogs with colds need time to rest. While getting some fresh air might seem like a good idea, it’s best to let your dog decide what they feel well enough to do. If they don’t seem interested in going for a walk, then let them recover at home instead.
If you do take your pup out for a walk or playtime, keep it short and gentle. A walk around the neighborhood may help them feel brighter, but strenuous exercise can put an extra strain on their already-inflamed respiratory tract.
If your dog has a cold, it’s very important to avoid contact with other dogs, as they can pass on the infection to others. Avoid greetings on walks and playtime with friends until your pup is all healed up.
Instead, spend one-on-one time with your under-the-weather pal, playing low-energy games or practicing commands like sit, stay, or shake. They’ll definitely appreciate the company and extra attention!
Treating a Dog Cold
Here are a few things you can do at home to help dogs with colds get better:
Serve Warm Food
Due to nasal congestion, dogs with colds might not be able to smell their food as well as they normally would. The result might be a lack of appetite.
Try warming your dog’s food to make it more fragrant, and easier for your congested pup to enjoy. Jinx Paté Wet Food is soft, savory, and ready-to-serve — with a great taste both warm or cold.
Keep Them Hydrated
Dogs with colds need to remain hydrated as part of their recovery. Don’t forget to check your pup’s water bowl to make sure that they’re getting plenty of fluids (salt and seasoning-free bone broth for dogs is also a great way to increase their fluid intake).
You could also try using a humidifier to increase the humidity of the air in the area where your dog sleeps, making it easier for your congested pup to breathe.
Let Your Dog Get Plenty of Rest
As mentioned in a previous section, it’s best to avoid excessive exercise while your dog is recovering from a cold. Keep walks to a comfortable pace, and let them rest whenever they need to. Your sick little pal needs to take it easy until they feel better!
Wash Toys and Blankets
Fight germs by cleaning your dog’s toys, blankets, and any other items they’re constantly in contact with.
How Long Do Dog Colds Last?
If your pup only has mild symptoms, is still eating and drinking normally, and seems to be functioning at their usual energy level, they’ll typically go back to feeling normal within a few days to a week.
If they’re not eating or drinking, and are obviously uncomfortable, and/or having difficulty breathing, you should contact your vet right away. If your vet suspects it’s something serious, they’ll do an exam and may run some tests to identify the cause of the problem.
Your pup’s treatment will depend on your vet’s diagnosis, but may include: antibiotics, cough suppressants, and fluids. Important note: never give your dog cold remedies for humans — this can be highly dangerous for them.
Preventing Dog Colds
Now that you know the answer to, “Can dogs get colds?” you may be wondering how to prevent them. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to minimize the risk of your pup getting an Upper Respiratory Infection.
Keep Their Vaccinations Up To Date
Vaccinations won’t protect your dog from everything, but they 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 Things Regularly
Another thing you can do to prevent the spread of dog colds is to regularly wash your pup’s food and water bowls, as well as their favorite toys. This is particularly important if they share these things with other dogs. Also, make sure that you change their water at least once a day.
Rest is Key
On average, dogs sleep between 12 to 14 hours a day. Make sure yours is getting enough sleep to support their immune system and overall health.
Feed Them High Quality Food
You know the saying “An apple a day keeps the doctor away”? Same goes for dogs (not necessarily apples, but you get the idea).
Feeding your dog a good quality diet can help support their immune system and prevent them from getting dog colds or the canine flu. From our Jinx Beef & Sweet Potato Kibble to our Grain-Free Salmon & Sweet Potato Paté Wet Food, all of our dog foods include premium proteins, powerful superfoods, and patented probiotics to ensure that your pup gets the nutrients they need, in the right proportions to fuel their day.
Look Out For Potential Outbreaks
One of the best ways to protect your pup against canine influenza is to keep an eye out for any possible outbreaks in your area. Your vet will usually alert you to anything of concern — letting you know if any new vaccines are required, if there are certain areas you should avoid, and if your dog should be kept inside for a period of time.
Nurturing Your Dog’s Health Through Nutrition
Hands down, the best ways to prevent your pup from catching a cold are to stay up-to-date on their vaccinations and avoid other sick animals. However, if you’re ever concerned that your dog is sick or might become sick, make an appointment with your vet right away.
In the meantime, support your dog’s day-to-day health with nutritious, high-quality food. At Jinx, we're here to upgrade the way you care for your dog by providing holistic nutrition made with thoughtful formulation, real ingredients, and a whole lot of love.