Can Dogs Get Influenza?
Two dog-specific strains cause cough and fever. Human flu does not usually infect dogs.
Yes, dogs can get influenza, specifically canine influenza virus, a contagious respiratory infection. Two main strains, H3N8 and H3N2, circulate in dogs. It spreads easily where dogs mix and causes coughing, fever and a runny nose. Its signs can resemble a bad cold. Human influenza does not usually infect dogs, and a vaccine is available for at-risk dogs.
Symptoms to Watch For
| Sign | What you might notice |
|---|---|
| Cough | A moist or dry cough lasting days to weeks |
| Runny nose | Clear, then sometimes thick, discharge |
| Fever | A raised temperature and feeling off |
| Lethargy | Low energy and reduced appetite |
| Sneezing | Frequent sneezes with the runny nose |
The cough can resemble kennel cough, another infection that spreads quickly where dogs mix.
How It Differs From Human Flu
The key differences
- Caused by dog-specific strains, not human flu viruses
- Human flu does not usually infect dogs
- Spreads dog to dog, not between species in normal life
- Has its own vaccines for the two main strains
Care and Prevention
- Rest and isolate. Keep a sick dog home and away from other dogs.
- Support recovery. Offer water, easy food and a warm, quiet space.
- Clean shared items. Wash bowls, bedding and toys, and your hands.
- Consider the vaccine. Ask your vet if your social dog should have it.
- Watch closely. See our guide to the flu in dogs for warning signs of pneumonia.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is canine influenza?
Canine influenza is a contagious respiratory virus specific to dogs. Two strains circulate, H3N8, which originally came from horses, and H3N2, which came from birds. Both spread readily between dogs and cause coughing, fever and nasal discharge, ranging from mild to, occasionally, severe illness.
Is dog influenza the same as human flu?
No. Canine influenza strains are different from the human flu viruses, and human flu does not usually infect dogs. You are very unlikely to give your dog your flu, or to catch canine flu from your dog. It spreads dog to dog, not between species in normal circumstances.
How does canine influenza spread?
It spreads through respiratory droplets from coughing and sneezing, direct contact, and contaminated bowls, toys and hands, mainly wherever dogs gather. Dogs can spread the virus before they look sick, so outbreaks move quickly through kennels, daycare and shelters.
Can I prevent canine flu?
Vaccines exist for both strains and are often advised for dogs that board, attend daycare or mix widely. Alongside vaccination, isolating sick dogs, washing shared items and good hygiene all reduce spread. Ask your vet whether the vaccine is right for 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.
