Can Dogs Get Colds?
Most doggy colds are mild and pass in about a week. Similar illnesses can be more serious.
Dogs can catch cold-like respiratory infections with sneezing, a runny nose and mild coughing, but they very rarely catch the human cold virus, so you are unlikely to give your dog your cold. Most doggy colds are mild and pass in a week or so, though similar-looking illnesses like kennel cough or canine flu can be more serious.
Symptoms to Watch For
| Sign | What you might notice |
|---|---|
| Sneezing | Frequent sneezes and a twitchy nose |
| Runny nose | Clear discharge from the nostrils |
| Watery eyes | Mild, clear eye discharge |
| Mild cough | An occasional soft cough |
| Slightly low energy | A little quieter but still eating |
These signs overlap with other bugs, and an early bout of canine influenza can look much like a cold at first, so watch how things develop.
How to Help at Home
- Let them rest. Reduce activity so the body can recover.
- Keep warm. A cozy, draft-free spot helps your dog feel comfortable.
- Encourage fluids. Fresh water, and perhaps a little warm broth, keeps them hydrated.
- Add humidity. Steam from a shower or a humidifier eases a stuffy nose.
- Wipe gently. Clean discharge from the nose and eyes with a soft, damp cloth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my dog catch a cold from me?
It is very unlikely. The viruses that cause the common cold in people rarely infect dogs, so you are not likely to give your dog your cold, or catch theirs. Dogs get their own cold-like respiratory bugs instead.
What are the symptoms of a cold in a dog?
A doggy cold looks a lot like ours: sneezing, a runny or stuffy nose, watery eyes, mild coughing and a little low energy. Most dogs keep eating and stay fairly bright. Symptoms that are severe or come with a fever suggest something more than a simple cold.
How can I help my dog feel better?
Let your dog rest, keep it warm and away from drafts, make sure it drinks plenty of water, and add humidity with a steamy bathroom or humidifier to ease a stuffy nose. Gently wipe away any discharge. Most mild colds clear up within a week or so.
How do I know if it is not just a cold?
Kennel cough, canine flu and other infections can look similar at first. See your vet if your dog has a persistent or honking cough, thick green or yellow discharge, a fever, trouble breathing, or if it stops eating or becomes listless.
⚠️ Emergency? If your dog may have swallowed something toxic or is seriously unwell, contact your vet or a pet poison helpline immediately (in the US, the Pet Poison Helpline is 855-764-7661).
Sources: American Kennel Club (akc.org), VCA Animal Hospitals (vcahospitals.com) and the American Veterinary Medical Association (avma.org). This guide is for general information and is not a substitute for advice from your own veterinarian. See our editorial & review policy.
