Can Your Dog Catch a Cold?

Iā€™m feeling a bit under the weather and started thinking, can my dog catch a cold from me? We live in a small studio apartment at the moment so I and my dog are both exposed to the same germs for sure. Can dogs get a cold and cough? Yes, they can. But itā€™s not... Read the Post The post Can Your Dog Catch a Cold? appeared first on Cavalcadia.

Can Your Dog Catch a Cold?

Iā€™m feeling a bit under the weather and started thinking, can my dog catch a cold from me? We live in a small studio apartment at the moment so I and my dog are both exposed to the same germs for sure.

Can dogs get a cold and cough? Yes, they can. But itā€™s not so simple and obvious. Letā€™s find out some answers to the popular questions about the topic.

A dog sleeping on a bed with cold remedies

What Is a Dogā€™s Flu Called?

A dogā€™s flu or cold is commonly referred to as canine influenza, canine flu, or kennel cough. It is caused by an influenza virus that is specific to dogs.

It is highly contagious and can be spread through direct contact with infected dogs, as well as through the air. Vaccines are available to protect dogs from canine influenza, and it is recommended for dogs that are at high risk of exposure, such as those that frequently visit dog parks, boarding facilities, or dog shows.

Symptoms of Your Dog Having a Cold

Canine influenza can cause symptoms similar to those of the common cold in humans, such as coughing, sneezing, and a runny nose. This is a list of possible symptoms:

  • Coughing, especially a dry hacking cough
  • Sneezing
  • Runny nose and/or eyes
  • Loss of appetite
  • Fatigue or lethargy
  • Fever
  • Difficulty breathing

How Long Will My Dog Have a Cold?

In general, a mild case of kennel cough, which is the most common type of cold in dogs, can last for 1-2 weeks. However, if the infection is more severe, it can last for several weeks or even longer.

Treatment with antibiotics and supportive care can help to alleviate symptoms and speed up recovery. In some cases, a dog may need to be hospitalized if they develop secondary infections such as pneumonia.

Itā€™s important to note that even after the symptoms of the cold have disappeared, the dogā€™s immune system may take some time to fully recover and itā€™s best to avoid exposing them to other dogs until they are completely better.

A small dog getting a examination at a vet's table

Can My Dog Catch a Cold From Me?

It is not likely that a dog can catch a cold from a human. Cold viruses that infect humans are caused by different types of viruses than the ones that infect dogs.

Dogs can catch colds from other dogs through contact with respiratory secretions or contaminated surfaces, but these viruses are not the same as the ones that cause colds in humans.

However, your dog can catch other illnesses from you such as canine parainfluenza, Bordetella bronchiseptica, and canine influenza which are caused by similar viruses that can cause cold-like symptoms in dogs. Remember good hand hygiene!

For example, if you pet a dog that has canine influenza, and some of the dogā€™s drool/snot rubs against your sleeve. Then you go home and greet your dog also rub against your sleeves and smell the other dog. Now your dog is breathing in germs and can be exposed to influenza as well.

Can I Catch a Cold From My Dog?

Cold viruses are species-specific, meaning that the cold virus that affects humans is different from the one that affects dogs. But dogs can carry other types of viruses and bacteria that can cause illness in humans, such as salmonella and E. coli. But can you cach a cold from your dog? No.

A french bulldog laying down with a thermometer in their mouth

Can Your Puppy Catch a Cold?

Yes, puppies can catch colds, just like adult dogs. The most common type of cold in dogs is called kennel cough, which is caused by a combination of viruses and bacteria. Puppies, like adult dogs, can be exposed to these viruses and bacteria through contact with an infected animal or through the air.

Puppies have a weaker immune system than adult dogs and may be more susceptible to colds and other illnesses, so itā€™s important to keep a close eye on their health and seek veterinary care if necessary.

Symptoms of kennel cough in puppies include a dry hacking cough, runny nose, and fever. If you suspect your puppy has a cold, itā€™s important to consult with a veterinarian.

To avoid your puppy from getting kennel cough, read this article about puppy vaccinations.

Can Your Dog Get a Cold From a Bath?

It is unlikely that a bath would cause a cold in a dog. A cold is typically caused by a virus or bacterial infection and is spread through contact with an infected animal or through the air. Taking a bath would not likely expose a dog to these types of infections.

However, if a dog is already sick, a bath could make them feel worse, especially if they are already running a fever or have a respiratory infection. Also, if you give your dog a bath with water that is too cold or if you dry them off improperly, they may become chilled, which could lead to other health issues.

Conclusion

In conclusion, dogs can catch colds, but they are caused by different viruses than the ones that infect humans. The most common type of cold in dogs is called kennel cough, which is caused by a combination of viruses and bacteria.

Dogs can be exposed to these viruses and bacteria through contact with an infected animal or through the air. Itā€™s important to note that puppies have a weaker immune system than adult dogs and may be more susceptible to colds and other illnesses.

The post Can Your Dog Catch a Cold? appeared first on Cavalcadia.