Some infections, viruses, or even bacteria are species-specific, which is why you don't need to worry about sharing a common cold. A human cold can only affect humans. It cannot be transmitted to animals, says PetMD. Can a dog get a cold from another dog? Unfortunately, the answer to that is yes. While you may not be able to pass your cold to your pet, that doesn't mean another dog's sneezing can't get your pup sick. In fact, many of your dog's symptoms will mimic a human's.