There are millions of cases of the common cold each year in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
According to the CDC, children experience more colds than adults do on average (between 2 and 3 per year).
Given how frequently people get colds, many people wonder if dogs can also get sick. And if so, can dogs catch human colds?.
Here is all the information you need to keep your dog healthy and to prevent dog colds.
The short answer is yes, dogs do get colds, and the symptoms they experience are very similar to those of our colds.
Many viruses—and even a few bacterial species—that infect dogs (e. g. , canine respiratory coronavirus, canine adenovirus type 2, canine parainfluenza virus, and Bordetella bronchiseptica) cause clinical signs in dogs that are nearly identical to the symptoms of colds in humans:
The primary distinction between our colds and theirs is the presence of various infectious agents in dogs’ illnesses.
According to the CDC, a variety of respiratory viruses can cause the common cold in humans. However, fortunately for your dog, most human cold viruses are usually species-specific.
That means that aside from perhaps the rarest of circumstances (such as with high doses of some types of parainfluenza), these viruses are essentially incapable of making dogs sick.
So, almost always, “no” is the response when asked if dogs can catch colds from people. ”.
Whether you’ve got a sniffle or something more serious, you may be worried about the potential risks for your four-legged friend. We’ve put together this guide to tell you everything you need to know about dog colds and flu to help you better understand your pet.
Cold and flu season is approaching when the trees begin to lose their leaves and we have to defrost the car every morning. For humans, this has just become a given, and we’re used to stockpiling tissues and pills, but what about our canine companions?
No, dogs cannot contract the cold virus that causes symptoms in humans and they do not contract colds in the same way that humans do. Dogs, however, can develop infections that cause cold-like symptoms like sneezing and congestion. Generally speaking, these “dog colds” are unique to that species, so you won’t be able to contract them along with your dog.
What Are the Symptoms of Colds in Dogs?
Some of the symptoms of a dog’s cold may resemble some of your own.
Common cold symptoms include:
The symptoms of more severe conditions, such as kennel cough, influenza virus (dog flu), the parainfluenza virus, bronchitis, or even canine distemper, may also be present in addition to the dog cold virus.
Calling your veterinarian is the safest course of action if your dog exhibits these symptoms. Your dog might have a more serious condition that needs veterinary care if they also exhibit fever, vomiting, diarrhea, changes in appetite, or any other abnormal behaviors.
Canine infectious tracheobronchitis, also known as kennel cough, is a seriously contagious respiratory condition that affects dogs. Kennels, where it is most frequently transmitted, give it its name. It is simple for dogs to catch and spread viruses at kennels and other locations where lots of dogs gather. Although most dogs recover from kennel cough with treatment, it can have more serious effects in puppies and dogs with weakened immune systems.
The dry, honking cough that dogs develop is the most recognizable sign of kennel cough. Some compare it to the noise made by a honking goose.
Sneezing, a runny nose, lethargy, appetite loss, and a low fever are additional signs of kennel cough. Always consult your veterinarian because many of these symptoms are also present in dogs with colds.
Does your dog have a cold? Dog cold symptoms to watch out for
Dog cold symptoms are very similar to a human cold. Sneezing, coughing, watery eyes, a runny or congested nose, and lethargy are the most typical symptoms. However, these might indicate conditions other than colds, so it’s important to seek advice from your veterinarian.
FAQ
How do you treat a puppy with a cold?
- Use a humidifier. Similar to humans, stuffy noses can be made better by breathing warm, steamy air.
- Clean your dog’s environment. …
- Make sure he get lots of rest. …
- Keep away from other dogs. …
- Give him plenty of fluids. …
- Keep your pup well fed.
Do puppy colds go away on their own?
While mild colds usually go away on their own, if your dog’s cold turns out to be an infection, like kennel cough, your veterinarian will advise a treatment plan that may include rest, antibiotics for secondary infections, cough suppressants, and fluids, particularly if your dog is a young dog.
Are puppy colds common?
No, dogs cannot contract the cold virus that causes symptoms in humans and they do not contract colds in the same way that humans do. Dogs, however, can develop infections that cause cold-like symptoms like sneezing and congestion.
How long do puppy colds last?
If it’s just a cold, you should be able to take care of your dog at home, and the symptoms should go away in 5 to 10 days. If your dog has a more severe cold, you might need to take them to the doctor.