Can Dogs Get Colds?

Can Dogs Get Colds in the Winter? How to Recognize and Treat a Sick Pup. As temperatures drop, many pet owners wonder if their dogs can catch colds just like humans. The answer is yes…dogs can experience cold-like symptoms, but their illnesses are typically caused by different viruses than those that affect humans. Understanding how to recognize, treat, and prevent canine colds is essential to keeping your furry friend healthy during the winter months.

Do Dogs Catch Colds?

Dogs do not catch colds in the same way humans do, but they can develop upper respiratory infections that produce similar symptoms. Various viruses and bacteria, such as canine influenza, Bordetella bronchiseptica (a primary cause of kennel cough), and canine adenovirus, can lead to cold-like illnesses in dogs. While these infections are more common in environments where dogs are in close contact, such as boarding facilities or dog parks, they can occur in any season, including winter.

Signs and Symptoms of a Cold in Dogs

If your dog is suffering from a cold or an upper respiratory infection, you may notice the following symptoms:

• Sneezing and nasal discharge: Clear or slightly cloudy mucus from the nose.
• Coughing: A dry or wet cough, often persistent.
• Watery eyes: Increased tear production, sometimes accompanied by redness.
• Lethargy: Decreased energy levels and reluctance to play or go on walks.
• Loss of appetite: A temporary reduction in food and water intake.
• Mild fever: A dog’s normal body temperature ranges between 101°F and 102.5°F; anything higher could indicate an infection.
• Congestion or difficulty breathing: A stuffy nose or mild wheezing.

While these symptoms often resolve on their own, it’s important to monitor your dog closely and seek veterinary care if symptoms worsen or persist beyond 10 days.

How to Treat a Dog with a Cold

If your dog shows signs of a mild respiratory infection, there are several home care treatments that can help them recover comfortably.

1. Keep Your Dog Warm and Comfortable

Ensure your dog has a warm, draft-free place to rest. Provide cozy blankets and avoid exposure to cold air or damp conditions.

2. Encourage Hydration

Fluids help flush out toxins and keep your dog’s respiratory tract moist. Offer fresh water frequently, and if your dog is reluctant to drink, try giving low-sodium chicken broth or warm water with a bit of honey.

3. Provide Nutrient-Rich Food

A well-balanced diet helps strengthen the immune system. If your dog has a reduced appetite, try warming their food slightly to enhance its aroma and make it more appealing. Consult with a clinical canine nutritionist for expert advice and care plans.

4. Use a Humidifier

Dry winter air can exacerbate respiratory issues. Using a humidifier in the room where your dog sleeps can help soothe nasal passages and ease congestion.

5. Allow Plenty of Rest

Like humans, dogs need rest to recover from an illness. Keep their environment calm and allow them to sleep as much as needed.

6. Offer Steam Therapy

If your dog is congested, allowing them to sit in a steamy bathroom (without direct exposure to hot water) can help clear their nasal passages and make breathing easier.

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When to See a Veterinarian

Most mild canine colds resolve within a week or two with proper care. However, if your dog shows any of the following signs, seek veterinary attention promptly:

• Difficulty breathing or wheezing.
• Thick, green, or yellow nasal discharge.
• Persistent high fever.
• Severe coughing fits that lead to choking or gagging.
• Dehydration (dry nose, sunken eyes, or decreased urination).
• Lethargy that lasts more than a few days.

These symptoms could indicate a more serious condition, such as pneumonia, canine influenza, or kennel cough, which may require antibiotics or antiviral medications. You can also see a canine behaviorist for follow up assessments.

“To help ease your dog’s congestion, use a humidifier or keep your dog in the bathroom while you run a hot shower. Do not give your dog over-the-counter cold remedies for humans without first consulting your veterinarian. They are dangerous when given to dogs.” – Jennifer Coates, DVM

Preventing Canine Colds During Winter

Prevention is always the best approach to keeping your dog healthy in winter. Here are some steps to minimize the risk of respiratory infections:

1. Avoid Contact with Sick Dogs

If you take your dog to parks, kennels, or daycare facilities, ensure that they require up-to-date vaccinations and maintain good hygiene practices.

2. Keep Your Dog’s Vaccinations Up to Date

Vaccines for Bordetella (kennel cough) and canine influenza can significantly reduce the risk of respiratory infections, especially for dogs that are frequently in social environments.

3. Maintain a Healthy Diet and Exercise Routine

A strong immune system is the best defense against illness. Feeding your dog high-quality food and ensuring they get enough exercise will help maintain their overall health.

4. Limit Outdoor Exposure in Harsh Weather

While many dogs enjoy playing in the snow, prolonged exposure to cold and damp conditions can weaken their immune system. Provide your dog with a coat or sweater if necessary and dry them off thoroughly after walks.

5. Keep Their Living Area Clean

Regularly clean your dog’s bedding, toys, and food and water bowls to reduce the spread of bacteria and viruses.

Although dogs don’t catch human colds, they can develop upper respiratory infections with similar symptoms. Most mild cases can be managed at home with proper care, hydration, and rest. However, it’s crucial to monitor for worsening symptoms and seek veterinary care if needed. By taking preventative measures and keeping your dog’s immune system strong, you can help them stay happy and healthy throughout the winter months.

About Petworks

In 2021, Dr. Marty Goldstein DVM joined the pet care platform Petworks as an advisor in its Animal Nutrition care division. Dr Marty Nature’s Blend is on a mission to help your pets live their healthiest lives possible. Dr. Marty’s pet nutrition expertise and guidance has helped Petworks evolve and become the preeminent animal and pet nutrition consultation service for pet parents in North America.

In 2022, Blue Buffalo Founder Bill Bishop Jr. joined Petworks as Senior Advisor in our Animal Nutrition Care Division. Bill brings his extensive expertise in pet food innovation and business leadership. His guidance helps Petworks enhance our pet nutrition service offerings, helping to ensure that pet parents throughout the world receive trusted, science-backed nutritional support for their dogs, cats, and animals.