Can dogs get a common cold from humans?

The common cold is pretty, well, common! Although uncomfortable and bothersome for most of us, these highly contagious symptoms are so easily passed on it’s a daily part of life. But what about our pup pals? Can dogs get a common cold from humans?

We’ll look to see whether dogs can get colds if humans can pass colds and flu onto them, and what you can do to prevent pups from picking up poorly problems. Tissues at the ready and stay hydrated, let’s explore more about the common cold in dogs.

Do dogs get colds?

Yes! Well, sort of. Pups can become infected with different viruses (like humans) which will cause things like a runny nose, watery eyes, and sneezing. The most common of these diseases include canine parainfluenza virus and canine distemper.

However, these signs can be a sign of another infectious respiratory disease which could be more serious. Kennel cough is a commonly spread illness that is passed on from dog to dog, hence the name. This upper respiratory infection can become serious if left untreated, so always have your canine checked if they show signs of illness.

Another cause of common colds in dogs can be parasites like ringworm. Again, be sure to take them to the vet if you notice any changes - they’ll be able to do a full physical exam to see if there’s anything more than just a sniffle snuffle.

Can dogs catch human colds?

Short answer: No. While our precious pooches can pick up a virus or bacteria that causes flu or cold-like symptoms, we humans can’t pass on our sniffles to our snuffles. The types of viruses we catch which cause a runny nose, cough, and a potential day off work, aren’t able to live inside a doggo’s body. And vice versa - pups can’t give us their snotty surprises to humans either.

Cold symptoms in dogs

Unsurprisingly, cold symptoms in dogs are very similar to human symptoms. According to PetMD, these include:

• Runny nose
• A rough or honking cough
• Frothy mucus from the mouth
• Congestion
• Conjunctivitis
• Watery eyes
• Sneezing
• Loss of appetite
• Shallow or wet breathing
• Lethargy
• Fever

Remember, you should always have your canine checked out by their vet if they ever appear unwell. While these cold symptoms in dogs may simply just be a cold or flu which will pass, these could also be symptoms to something more sinister. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Treatment and dog cold medicine

It’ll depend on what’s causing your dog's cold symptoms. If it’s an infection or parasite like ringworm, your vet will need to administer medicine and possibly write them a prescription. Other infections like kennel cough will also need immediate treatment and care.

But, for poorly pups with a flu or cold virus, although the runny nose and watery eyes aren’t nice for them (or you) to deal with, they’re typically mild illnesses. Like a human, after a few days, they should be back to themselves. Make sure they see their vet either during or after their illness. If they start to deteriorate, you must take them to an emergency vet immediately.

Preventing a canine common cold

Sadly, there’s currently no vaccination to protect pups from all the different viruses that cause cold symptoms in dogs. As a canine carer, the best thing you can do is make sure they’re kept warm, comfortable, and well-hydrated. If they’re lethargic, don’t force them to go on walks, it’s much better to let them rest.

Just as you would prevent contact with an infected dog, make sure your sneezy snuffle is kept away from other pups to stop the spread of the illness. Disinfect their toys and bedding to kill off all strains of the virus. 

Connect with other pet parents and canine carers on our Community Forum to share your experiences with dog congestion, or to find out how others care for a sniffly snuffle. If you’re already a Standard or Premium member, you have unlimited and free access to our 24/7 vet advice line if you have any questions or concerns about your pup’s welfare.