Having a cold is never fun, but can you pass it on to your dog? The good news is that, as far as science knows, you can’t infect your dog with a cold. However, dogs can get their own version of a cold, so it’s important to know how to care for your furry friend when they’re feeling under the weather.
Signs Your Dog Has a Cold
The symptoms of a dog cold are similar to those of a human cold. Your dog may experience nasal congestion and discharge, sneezing, coughing, and a mild fever. Lethargy, weakness, and a loss of appetite are also common signs.
It’s important to distinguish a common cold from more serious conditions like kennel cough or canine influenza. If your dog has a distinctive honking cough or other worrying symptoms, it’s best to consult a veterinarian.
Body Language
Watch out for signs of a cold in your dog’s body language, such as shaking, panting, drooping ears, and weakness.
Other Signs
Other signs of a dog cold include a blocked or runny nose, occasional coughing, sneezing, lethargy, reduced appetite, fever, and runny eyes.
The Science of Dog and Human Colds
While most cold viruses are species-specific and can’t be transferred between humans and dogs, there have been rare cases of dogs contracting the flu from their owners. This highlights the importance of practicing good hygiene when you’re sick.
Protecting Your Dog Against Colds
To help your dog avoid colds, focus on keeping them fit and healthy. This includes vaccinations, a balanced diet, exercise, and regular veterinary check-ups. Provide fresh water, keep your dog warm and dry, and manage their symptoms with home remedies if their cold is mild. If their condition worsens or persists, consult a veterinarian for the best course of treatment, which may include antibiotics, cough suppressants, decongestants, and anti-inflammatories.
“Taking care of your fur-baby when they have a cold: What you need to know”
Tips & Things to Know
1️⃣ Dogs cannot catch a cold from humans, but they can get their own version of the cold virus. Signs that your dog has a cold may include a blocked or runny nose, occasional coughing, sneezing, lethargy, reduced appetite, fever, and runny eyes.
2️⃣ While it’s unlikely, dogs can potentially contract the flu from humans. There have been a small number of cases where domestic animals, including dogs, were diagnosed with swine flu after apparently contracting it from their owners. Therefore, it’s important to practice good hygiene when you’re not feeling well.
3️⃣ To protect your dog from getting a cold, keep them as fit and healthy as possible. Feed them a balanced diet, ensure they get plenty of exercise, and provide plenty of fresh water. Regular veterinary check-ups can also help you stay on top of any health problems. If your dog does get a cold, most mild cases can be managed with rest, hydration, and food. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, a visit to the veterinarian is recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions, Answered ✅
1. Can I give my dog a cold if I have one?
No, it is not possible to infect your dog with a cold as the viruses that cause colds in humans are species-specific.
2. What are the signs that my dog has a cold?
Signs that your dog may have a cold include nasal congestion and discharge, runny eyes, sneezing, occasional coughing, lethargy, reduced appetite, and possibly a mild fever.
3. How can I tell if my dog’s cold is something more serious, like kennel cough?
Kennel cough is a highly contagious cough that makes a distinctive honking sound and is typically transmitted at kennels and boarding facilities. If your dog’s symptoms are worrying or if they have a persistent cough, it is best to consult a veterinarian.
4. Can dogs catch the flu from humans?
While it is rare, there have been isolated cases of dogs catching the flu from their owners. Practicing good hygiene when you’re sick can help prevent the spread of any potential viruses.
5. How can I protect my dog from getting a cold?
To protect your dog from getting a cold, focus on keeping them fit and healthy. This includes staying up to date with vaccinations, providing a balanced diet, regular exercise, fresh water, and keeping them warm and dry. Regular veterinary check-ups can help catch any health problems early.
