Vet Approved Guide: Can Dogs Catch a Cold? Signs, Care & Prevention (2025)🩺🐶

By Dr. Duncan Houston BVSc

Your dog’s been sneezing, coughing, and curling up more than usual—could they have a cold? As a veterinarian, I hear this question often. The short answer: Yes, dogs can experience “colds,” but their causes and care differ from what we see in humans. 🐶💤

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the signs of a dog cold, common viruses involved, how to comfort your dog, and when it’s time to consult a vet. Let’s help your pup feel better—faster and safer. 🩺🐾

❓ Can Dogs Catch a Cold?

Dogs can experience upper respiratory infections (URIs) that resemble the common cold in humans. While they don’t get colds from us (and vice versa), they are susceptible to several viruses and bacteria that affect their respiratory system.

Key difference: Dog colds come from canine-specific pathogens. Human colds typically do not cross species. 🧬

🦠 Common Causes of “Dog Colds”

The term “dog cold” usually refers to mild respiratory infections caused by:

• Canine adenovirus – Causes respiratory signs and sometimes hepatitis
• Canine parainfluenza virus – Often a component of kennel cough
• Bordetella bronchiseptica – A bacterial infection, also linked to kennel cough
• Canine influenza – More severe, similar to the flu

These pathogens spread through direct contact, shared bowls or toys, and airborne droplets. 🦴😷

📋 Symptoms of a Canine Cold

Mild colds usually resolve on their own, but always monitor symptoms closely. Signs may include:

• 🤧 Sneezing
• 💦 Nasal discharge (clear or cloudy)
• 😮💨 Mild coughing
• 👁️ Watery eyes
• 😴 Mild lethargy
• 🍽️ Reduced appetite

Warning: If your dog has colored nasal discharge, difficulty breathing, or refuses food, it could indicate a more serious infection or condition like pneumonia. Contact your vet or use the Ask A Vet app for fast advice. 🩺📱

🛌 At-Home Care for a Mild Cold

Most dog colds improve within 7–10 days. To support healing at home:

• 🏠 Keep your dog indoors and warm
• 💧 Offer fresh water and easy-to-digest food
• 🌬️ Use a humidifier to ease nasal congestion
• 🧻 Gently wipe away discharge from nose or eyes
  

Minimize walks or stimulation while your dog recovers. Rest is the best medicine. 😴

🧪 When to See a Vet

Contact a vet or use Ask A Vet if your dog shows any of the following:

• 🌡️ Fever
• 😮💨 Labored or rapid breathing
• 🩸 Bloody discharge
• 🍽️ Complete refusal of food or water for 24 hours
• 🤒 Symptoms lasting more than 10 days

Prompt care can prevent complications like pneumonia or dehydration. Vets may prescribe antibiotics (for bacterial infections) or supportive medications. 🧪

🛡️ Preventing Colds in Dogs

Prevention is your best defense, especially during cold seasons or if your dog frequents daycare or parks.

✅ Vaccines

• 💉 Bordetella (kennel cough)
• 💉 Canine influenza
• 💉 DHPP (covers adenovirus and parainfluenza)

🧼 Hygiene Tips

• 🚿 Wash food/water bowls daily
• 🐕 Avoid dog parks if your dog shows symptoms
• 📦 Disinfect shared toys and crates

👥 Limit Exposure

If your dog is immune-compromised or recovering from illness, avoid kennels or group settings.

🧬 Are Some Breeds More Susceptible?

Yes! Certain breeds and age groups are more vulnerable:

• 👃 Brachycephalic breeds (e.g., Pugs, Bulldogs) due to short airways
• 👶 Puppies with immature immune systems
• 👴 Seniors with age-related immunity decline

Be proactive about wellness and monitor these pups closely. 🩺🐾

🧠 How to Tell If It’s Something More Serious

Colds share symptoms with other, more serious conditions:

• 🦠 Canine influenza: High fever, persistent cough
• 🧫 Pneumonia: Lethargy, wet cough, labored breathing
• 🦴 Heart disease: Chronic coughing, exercise intolerance

If your dog’s cold doesn’t improve or worsens, it’s essential to get a professional evaluation. Use Ask A Vet to speak with a licensed veterinarian online. 📲

🎯 Managing Recovery

Once your dog is on the mend, low-intensity training and enrichment can help restore confidence and energy. 

• 🎓 Quiet obedience refreshers (“sit,” “down”)
• 💡 Slow-return leash walks with Explorer Harness

✅ Final Takeaways

Yes—dogs can catch colds, but they’re typically caused by canine-specific viruses. With rest, hydration, and watchful care, most dogs recover quickly. Always monitor for signs of something more serious and don’t hesitate to consult your vet. 🐾

Quick Summary:

• 🤧 Dogs can catch colds, but not from humans
• 📋 Symptoms include sneezing, coughing, discharge
• 🏠 Rest, hydration, and calm help with recovery
• 📱 Use Ask A Vet for expert guidance anytime
  

Need help fast? Head to AskAVet.com or download the app for 24/7 support from licensed veterinarians. 🩺📱