Can Dogs Get the Flu?
It causes coughing and fever. Human flu almost never infects dogs, and a vaccine is available.
Yes, dogs can get the flu, specifically canine influenza, a contagious respiratory virus that spreads between dogs. It causes coughing, a runny nose and fever. Human flu almost never infects dogs. Its early signs overlap with a simple cold, though flu tends to hit harder. Most dogs recover with rest, but some develop more serious illness, and a vaccine is available for at-risk dogs.
Symptoms to Watch For
| Sign | What you might notice |
|---|---|
| Persistent cough | A moist or dry cough lasting days to weeks |
| Runny nose and sneezing | Nasal discharge, sometimes thick |
| Fever | A raised temperature and feeling off |
| Low energy | Tiredness and less interest in activity |
| Reduced appetite | Eating less than usual |
Care and Prevention
Like kennel cough, canine flu spreads fast wherever dogs gather, so isolating a sick dog matters.
- Rest and isolate. Keep your dog home and away from other dogs while sick.
- Support recovery. Provide water, easy-to-eat food and a warm, quiet space.
- Clean shared items. Wash bowls, bedding and toys to limit spread.
- Consider the vaccine. Ask your vet if your social dog should be vaccinated.
- Follow vet advice. Some dogs need medication for secondary infections.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can dogs catch the flu from humans?
Almost never. Canine influenza is caused by dog-specific virus strains, and the human flu viruses do not readily infect dogs. Dog flu spreads from dog to dog, not from people, so you are very unlikely to give your dog your flu.
What are the symptoms of dog flu?
Most dogs get a cough that can last for weeks, a runny nose, sneezing, fever, tiredness and reduced appetite. Many cases are mild, but a minority develop a high fever and pneumonia, which is serious. Some infected dogs show no signs yet can still spread the virus.
How does canine influenza spread?
It spreads through coughs and sneezes, direct contact, and shared bowls, toys and surfaces, mostly wherever dogs gather, like kennels, daycare and shelters. An infected dog can be contagious before symptoms appear, which is why outbreaks move quickly.
Is there a vaccine for dog flu?
Yes. Vaccines are available for the main canine influenza strains and are often recommended for social dogs that board, attend daycare or go to shows. They may not fully prevent infection but usually make illness milder and shorter. Ask your vet if it suits your dog.
⚠️ 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.
