As dog owners, we often worry about our pups and wonder if they can get sick. While dogs can catch specific diseases like parvo or heartworm, can they get the flu or a cold like humans? After researching and consulting with a vet, we have some answers.
According to vets
According to vets, dogs can indeed get the cold or flu, and their symptoms can be similar to ours. They may have a runny nose, coughing, sneezing, watery eyes, and appear generally “off” or lethargic. However, it’s important to note that these symptoms can also indicate a more serious illness, so it’s crucial to keep an eye on our dogs’ health.
Signs Your Dog May Be Feeling Under the Weather
For colds, dogs may experience sneezing, coughing, a runny or congested nose, watery eyes, and a lack of appetite. It’s essential to pay attention to your dog’s normal behavior so you can recognize when they’re feeling sick.
The flu
The flu, unlike the common cold, can be more dangerous for dogs. Mild flu symptoms include a wet or dry cough and a runny nose, which typically resolve within 10 to 30 days. Severe flu symptoms may include a high fever, pneumonia, bloody coughing, difficulty breathing, weakness, and loss of appetite.
Body Language
Some signs that your dog may have a cold or flu include whining, shaking, cowering, panting, dropped ears, pacing, and weakness.
Other Signs
Additional signs of illness in dogs may include a high fever, sneezing, coughing (especially if bloody), changes in behavior, watery eyes, a runny or congested nose, lack of appetite, and lethargy.
The History of Colds and Flus in Dogs
Viruses that affect dogs have likely been around as long as dogs themselves. However, in recent times, dogs have become more susceptible to catching bugs from humans due to increased indoor living. While this has increased the risk of sickness for dogs, it has also improved their overall well-being with access to veterinary care.
The Science Behind Sicknesses in Dogs
Illnesses in dogs are caused by various viruses, parasites, and allergies, each with different symptoms. Parasites can infect the lungs, heart, and trachea, mimicking cold symptoms. Allergies can also cause similar symptoms but are generally less severe and treatable with over-the-counter medications.
Conclusion
To diagnose your dog’s illness, it’s necessary to visit a vet who will perform a physical examination, blood tests, and possibly an X-ray to assess lung health. While it may sound daunting, most illnesses in dogs are treatable with cough suppressants, antibiotics, rest, and sometimes isolation.
While dogs can get colds and the flu, it’s important to be vigilant about their health and not dismiss symptoms that could indicate a more serious illness. By observing their behavior, seeking veterinary care when needed, and providing appropriate treatment, our furry friends have a good chance of recovering and returning to their happy selves.
“Keep an eye on your pooch: recognizing the signs of a sick dog.”
Tips & Things to Know
1️⃣ Dogs can indeed get colds or the flu, and their symptoms often mirror those of humans, including runny noses, coughing, sneezing, and watery eyes. However, it’s crucial to monitor these symptoms as they could also indicate more severe diseases in dogs.
2️⃣ Pay close attention to your dog’s body language and behavior. Signs of illness can include whining, shaking, cowering, panting, weakness, high fever, sneezing, coughing, changes in behavior, watery eyes, congested nose, loss of appetite, and lethargy.
3️⃣ If you suspect your dog is ill, seek veterinary care immediately. The only certain way to diagnose your dog is through a vet who may conduct a physical, complete blood count, clinical chemistry, and even an X-ray. While the prospect of your dog being sick can be scary, many illnesses are treatable with early detection.
Frequently Asked Questions, Answered ✅
1. Can dogs get the cold or flu?
– Yes, dogs can get the cold or flu, and their symptoms are similar to ours.
2. What are the symptoms of a cold in dogs?
– Symptoms of a cold in dogs include sneezing, coughing, a runny or congested nose, watery eyes, lethargy, weakness, and lack of appetite.
3. Can dogs catch the flu from humans?
– Yes, dogs can catch the flu from humans, although it is uncommon. The flu can be more dangerous in dogs, just like in humans.
4. What are the symptoms of the flu in dogs?
– Dogs with a mild form of the flu will have symptoms similar to a cold, such as a wet or dry cough and a runny nose. Dogs with a severe form of the flu may have an extremely high fever, pneumonia, bloody coughing, difficulty breathing, malaise or weakness, and lack of appetite.
5. How can illnesses in dogs be diagnosed and treated?
– The only way to diagnose a dog with the flu, a cold, or another illness is by taking them to the vet. The vet may perform a physical examination, blood tests, and X-rays. Treatment may include cough suppressants, antibiotics, rest, and sometimes isolation to prevent further illness. Most of these illnesses are treatable if caught early.
