How do you know when your dog has a cold? Recognizing when your dog isn’t feeling well often starts by noticing small changes in their normal behavior and looking for signs like a runny nose or sneezing. These symptoms of a dog cold can look a lot like a human cold, but they are caused by different viruses or bacteria. If you see these signs, it’s your dog telling you they might need some extra care or even a trip to the vet.
A dog cold isn’t exactly the same as a human cold. Dogs get sick from germs that are specific to them. These germs mostly affect their nose, throat, and lungs. It’s like a cold, but for dogs. These sicknesses are often called canine respiratory infections. They spread easily between dogs, especially where lots of dogs gather, like parks or boarding kennels.
Spotting the signs early is important. A mild cold might just need rest and care at home. But sometimes, these signs can mean something more serious. Knowing what to look for helps you decide the best way to help your furry friend feel better.
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Spotting the First Signs
Watching your dog is the best way to know if something is wrong. They can’t tell you how they feel. You have to be their detective.
Look for things that are different from what your dog usually does. Is your dog usually full of energy but now just wants to sleep? Does your dog always finish their food but now walks away from the bowl? These are clues.
Think about what your dog was doing recently. Did they spend time with other dogs? Did they go somewhere new? This might help you figure out if they picked up a bug.
Simple changes can be the first hints that your dog might be catching a cold or another sickness.
Deciphering Common Cold Signs
A dog cold usually shows up with symptoms that affect the nose, throat, and airways. It’s like they have a stuffy head or a scratchy throat.
These signs can come on slowly or show up quickly. It’s good to know the typical ones so you can watch for them.
Here are some common symptoms of a dog cold you might see:
- Sneezing often
- Coughing
- Having a runny nose
- Eyes looking watery
- Seeming very tired
- Not wanting to eat
Let’s look at each of these more closely.
Grasping Coughing and Sneezing
Dog coughing and sneezing are two of the most common signs of a cold or other breathing problems.
Sneezing is your dog’s way of trying to clear stuff out of their nose. Just like us, a dog might sneeze because of dust or something tickling their nose. But if they are sneezing a lot, or if it comes with other signs, it could mean they are sick.
Coughing is usually a sign that their throat or airways are bothered. Dog coughs can sound different. Some coughs sound dry and hacking, like they have something stuck in their throat. This is often what kennel cough symptoms sound like. Other coughs might sound wet, like there is liquid in their chest.
What Dog Coughs Sound Like
H4 Dry Cough:
- Sounds like a goose honking or a deep hack.
- Often seen with kennel cough.
- Can happen many times in a row.
- Might get worse with excitement or exercise.
H4 Wet Cough:
- Sounds like there is fluid in the chest.
- Might bring up mucus.
- Can mean a deeper problem in the lungs.
Both types of coughs mean your dog’s breathing system is not working right. Pay attention to how often they cough and what it sounds like. This information is helpful if you talk to your vet.
Coughing and sneezing together are strong signs your dog is sick.
Interpreting a Runny Nose
A runny nose in dogs is another very common sign of a cold.
Just like with people, the stuff coming out of their nose can change.
At first, the discharge might be clear and watery. This is like the start of a human cold.
But as the sickness goes on, the snot can get thicker. It might turn cloudy, white, yellow, or even green.
Green or yellow snot often means there might be bacteria causing a problem too. This could mean a simple cold is turning into something more serious.
Looking at Nasal Discharge
H4 Clear and Watery:
- Often seen in the first few days.
- Can also happen from allergies, but usually with sneezing.
- Might make the fur around their nose wet.
H4 Thick or Colored:
- White, yellow, or green color.
- Means there are likely white blood cells fighting an infection.
- Could be a sign of a bacterial infection needing treatment.
- Can make it hard for your dog to smell food.
If your dog’s nose is running a lot, you might see them lick their nose more often. Sometimes, thick snot can dry up and block their nose, making it hard for them to breathe through it.
A persistent or colored runny nose in dogs is a key symptom of a dog cold or other breathing problem.
Noticing Lethargy and Tiredness
When a dog is sick, they often feel very tired. This is called lethargy in dogs.
Lethargy means your dog has less energy than usual. They might:
- Sleep more than normal.
- Not want to play.
- Walk slower on walks or not want to go on walks.
- Not get excited about things they usually love, like toys or treats.
- Just lie around the house.
Being tired is a sign that your dog’s body is using energy to fight off the sickness. It’s like when you feel run down with a cold.
Some dogs naturally sleep a lot, especially older dogs. But if your dog’s tiredness is a sudden change, and it comes with other signs like coughing or a runny nose, it’s likely because they don’t feel well.
Severe lethargy in dogs is a clear sign your dog is sick and should not be ignored.
Observing Loss of Appetite
A dog that isn’t feeling well might not want to eat. This is called loss of appetite dog.
Sickness can make dogs feel nauseous or just not interested in food. If their nose is stuffed up, they might not be able to smell their food well, which makes eating less appealing. Also, a sore throat from coughing can make swallowing hurt.
If your dog skips one meal, it might not be a big deal. Maybe they just aren’t hungry. But if they skip several meals, or don’t eat for a whole day, it’s a worry.
Puppies and older dogs need to eat regularly. If they stop eating, they can get weak quickly.
What Loss of Appetite Means
H4 Mild Loss of Appetite:
- Eats less than usual.
- Takes a long time to finish food.
- Sniffs food but walks away.
- Might eat treats but not regular food.
H4 Complete Loss of Appetite:
- Refuses to eat anything at all.
- Turns their nose up at favorite foods.
- This is more serious.
Loss of appetite dog, especially if it lasts more than a day or two, is a significant symptom of a dog cold or other illness. It’s a clear sign your dog is sick.
Watching for Watery Eyes
Sometimes, a dog with a cold will have eyes that look watery or teary.
This can happen because the infection is irritating the membranes around the eyes and nose. The discharge from the eyes is usually clear, like tears.
You might see wetness in the fur under their eyes. Their eyes might also look a little red or puffy.
Watery eyes alone might not mean a cold. But if they happen with coughing, sneezing, or a runny nose, it fits the picture of a dog cold.
Checking for Mild Fever
Dogs can get fevers too when they are sick. A fever means their body temperature is higher than normal.
A dog’s normal body temperature is higher than a human’s. It’s usually between 101°F and 102.5°F (38.3°C to 39.2°C).
A temperature above 103°F (39.4°C) is considered a fever.
Dog Fever Signs to Watch For:
H4 Signs of Fever:
- Warm ears and nose (though this is not a perfect way to tell).
- Lethargy in dogs (being very tired).
- Shivering or shaking.
- Loss of appetite dog (not wanting to eat).
- Acting restless or uncomfortable.
- Breathing faster.
The best way to know if your dog has a fever is to take their temperature with a special pet thermometer. This is usually done rectally and can be tricky. Your vet can show you how to do it, or you can ask them to check.
A mild fever can be part of a simple cold. But a high fever (over 104°F or 40°C) needs urgent vet care. Dog fever signs, especially when combined with other symptoms, are a strong indication of illness.
Fathoming More Serious Breathing Issues
Sometimes, what looks like a simple cold can be something more serious. Many different germs can cause canine respiratory infection symptoms.
A common example is kennel cough. Kennel cough symptoms often start like a cold with a hacking cough, but it can be very contagious and sometimes lead to worse problems like pneumonia, especially in puppies or older dogs.
Other, more serious infections can cause similar signs but be much harder for your dog’s body to fight off.
Signs a Cold Might Be More Serious:
H4 Worrisome Symptoms:
- Coughing that is severe or doesn’t stop.
- Trouble breathing (heavy panting when not hot or exercising, chest moving a lot).
- Lips or gums looking blue or purple.
- High fever (over 104°F).
- Lots of thick, colored snot.
- Extreme lethargy in dogs (can’t barely stand up).
- Not eating or drinking at all.
- Signs getting worse instead of better after a few days.
These serious signs are not just a simple cold. They mean your dog needs a vet right away. Canine respiratory infection symptoms can range from mild to life-threatening. Knowing the difference is vital.
When to See the Vet
Knowing when to see vet dog cold symptoms appear is very important. While a mild cold might get better on its own with rest, it’s always a good idea to talk to your vet if you are worried.
Think of your vet as your partner in keeping your dog healthy. They can tell you if the signs are normal for a simple cold or if they point to something that needs medical help.
Reasons to Call the Vet:
H4 When to Contact Your Vet:
- You see any symptoms of a dog cold and aren’t sure what to do.
- Your dog is a puppy or an older dog. These dogs have weaker immune systems.
- Your dog has other health problems already.
- Symptoms are severe (trouble breathing, high fever, won’t eat or drink).
- Symptoms last for more than a few days or seem to be getting worse.
- You notice thick, colored snot or a wet cough.
- Your dog is very tired (lethargy in dogs) and not eating (loss of appetite dog).
Table: When to Watch vs. When to Call
| Symptom | Watch at Home (Mild) | Call the Vet (Worrying) |
|---|---|---|
| Runny nose in dogs | Clear, watery discharge | Thick, yellow, or green discharge |
| Dog coughing and sneezing | Occasional sneezing, mild dry cough | Severe, constant cough, wet cough, trouble breathing |
| Lethargy in dogs | A little tired, but still moves around | Very tired, doesn’t want to stand up or move |
| Loss of appetite dog | Skips one meal, still eats treats | Refuses all food for more than a day |
| Eyes | Slightly watery | Red, puffy, thick discharge |
| Fever | No fever or very mild (below 103°F) | High fever (103°F+), especially over 104°F |
| Overall | Seems uncomfortable but still responsive | Very sick, weak, unresponsive, worsening signs |
This table gives you a quick guide. If your dog’s signs are on the “Call the Vet” side, don’t wait. Get them seen by a vet.
What the Vet Might Do
If you take your dog to the vet for cold symptoms of a dog cold, the vet will start by asking you questions.
Be ready to tell them:
- What signs you’ve seen.
- When the signs started.
- If the signs are getting better or worse.
- If your dog has been around other dogs recently.
- What your dog usually eats and if that has changed.
- If your dog is vaccinated (especially for things like kennel cough).
The vet will then give your dog a physical exam. They will listen to their heart and lungs, feel their tummy, look in their nose and throat, and check their temperature.
Based on the exam, the vet might have a good idea of what’s wrong. For mild cases, they might just recommend rest and watching your dog at home.
For more serious cases, or if they aren’t sure, they might suggest more tests.
Possible Vet Tests:
H4 Diagnostic Steps:
- Blood tests: To check for infection or other problems.
- X-rays: To look at the lungs and see if there’s pneumonia.
- Swabs: Taking a sample from the nose or throat to test for specific germs.
These tests help the vet figure out exactly what is making your dog sick so they can give the right treatment.
Helping Your Dog Feel Better
If your dog has a mild cold, your vet might say you can care for them at home. The main goals are to keep them comfortable, make sure they rest, and help them stay hydrated.
Home Care Tips:
H4 Caring for a Sick Dog at Home:
- Rest: Make sure your dog has a warm, quiet place to rest. Limit their walks and playtime. Their body needs energy to heal.
- Keep Warm: Avoid cold drafts. A warm bed helps.
- Keep Nose Clear: If their nose is stuffy, you can gently wipe away discharge with a soft, damp cloth. Sometimes, sitting with your dog in a steamy bathroom (run a hot shower) for 10-15 minutes can help loosen mucus.
- Encourage Drinking: Make sure fresh water is always available. Sickness can make dogs not want to drink, which can lead to dehydration.
- Encourage Eating: If your dog has loss of appetite dog, try offering tempting food. This could be plain cooked chicken, boiled hamburger, or special sensitive stomach dog food. Warm food often smells stronger and is more appealing. Offer small amounts often.
- Use a Humidifier: A humidifier can help keep the air moist, which can soothe a sore throat and help loosen mucus.
- Follow Vet Instructions: If your vet gave you medicine, give it exactly as they told you to.
Do NOT give your dog human cold medicine unless your vet tells you to. Many human medicines are harmful or deadly to dogs.
Remember, even with home care, keep watching your dog closely. If they get worse, or if new bad signs show up, call your vet again.
Treatment Options
Treatment for a dog cold or other respiratory infection depends on how severe it is and what is causing it.
For a mild viral cold, like many kennel cough cases, treatment often just involves rest, good care at home, and letting the dog’s own body fight the virus. Antibiotics don’t kill viruses, so they aren’t helpful for a simple viral cold.
However, if your dog develops a secondary bacterial infection (which can happen because their system is weak), or if the vet thinks bacteria are the main problem, they might prescribe antibiotics.
Possible Vet Treatments:
H4 Medical Help:
- Antibiotics: Used to treat bacterial infections.
- Cough suppressants: Might be used if a cough is severe and keeping the dog from resting. The vet will decide if this is needed.
- Anti-inflammatory medicines: To help reduce fever or discomfort.
- Fluids: If a dog is dehydrated or not drinking, they might need fluids under the skin or through a vein at the vet clinic.
- Nebulization: Breathing in medicated mist can help some dogs with breathing problems.
- Hospitalization: For very sick dogs with severe breathing trouble or pneumonia, staying at the vet clinic for constant care might be needed.
The vet will choose the best treatment based on your dog’s specific needs and diagnosis.
Preventing Dog Colds
While you can’t stop your dog from ever getting sick, there are things you can do to lower the chance of them catching a cold or other respiratory infection.
Prevention Steps:
H4 Keeping Your Dog Healthy:
- Vaccination: Vaccines are available for some common canine respiratory illnesses, like kennel cough (Bordetella) and canine influenza. Talk to your vet about which vaccines are right for your dog based on their lifestyle. Vaccines don’t always prevent the sickness entirely, but they can make it much milder.
- Avoid Sick Dogs: If you know a dog is sick, keep your dog away from them until they are better. This includes avoiding shared toys, bowls, or spaces.
- Cleanliness: Wash food and water bowls often. Clean up areas where your dog spends time.
- Good Diet and Exercise: Keeping your dog healthy and fit helps their immune system work better.
- Manage Stress: Stress can make dogs more likely to get sick. Try to keep your dog’s life calm and predictable.
Even with prevention, dogs can still get sick. Like kids at school, dogs are around other dogs in many places. Knowing the signs your dog is sick is your best tool for getting them help quickly.
How Long Do Dog Colds Last?
The time it takes for a dog to get over a cold can vary.
A simple, mild cold might last only 5 to 10 days. The worst symptoms like coughing and sneezing might be gone within a week or two.
However, if the cold turns into a more serious infection, like pneumonia, or if it is a type like kennel cough that can cause a cough that lasts for weeks, it can take much longer. The cough from kennel cough can sometimes last for 2-3 weeks, even after the dog starts feeling better.
If your dog’s symptoms are not getting better after a week, or if they get worse at any point, call your vet. This could mean it’s not just a simple cold.
What About Human Colds?
Can you give your dog your cold? No. The viruses that cause colds in people are different from the viruses and bacteria that cause cold-like symptoms in dogs. You generally cannot catch a cold from your dog, and your dog generally cannot catch a cold from you.
However, there are other germs that can pass between people and dogs. This is why good hygiene, like washing your hands, is important. But for the common cold virus, don’t worry about sharing it with your dog.
When Symptoms Return
If your dog seems to get over a cold, but then the symptoms of a dog cold come back, or new ones appear, it’s time to talk to your vet again.
This could mean:
- The first sickness wasn’t fully gone.
- They caught a new sickness.
- The sickness was more complicated than it first seemed.
- There is another health problem causing the signs.
Never guess when it comes to your dog’s health. If you are unsure, a quick call or visit to the vet is always the safest choice.
Conclusion: Be Your Dog’s Best Advocate
Spotting the signs your dog is sick, whether it’s just a little cough or significant lethargy in dogs, is the first step in getting them back to feeling good. Symptoms of a dog cold are common, but they should always be paid attention to.
By watching for dog coughing and sneezing, a runny nose in dogs, loss of appetite dog, and other changes, you can figure out if your dog needs extra rest at home or needs to see the vet right away (when to see vet dog cold guide).
Remember that what looks like a simple cold could sometimes be more serious canine respiratory infection symptoms, like kennel cough symptoms, or even something else entirely. Your vet is the expert who can tell you for sure what’s going on and the best way to help your dog.
Don’t wait if you are worried. A vet visit early on can make a big difference in how quickly and well your dog recovers. Your dog relies on you to notice when they aren’t feeling well and to get them the care they need. By learning these signs, you can be the best advocate for your furry family member’s health.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
H4 Q: Can my dog give a cold to my other dogs?
H5 A: Yes. Canine respiratory infections, like kennel cough, are very contagious between dogs. If one of your dogs shows symptoms of a dog cold, it’s wise to keep them separate from your other dogs if possible to avoid spreading it. Clean food bowls, water bowls, and toys that the sick dog uses.
H4 Q: Are there home remedies for a dog cold?
H5 A: For mild symptoms of a dog cold, home care focuses on rest, keeping them warm, making sure they drink enough water, and offering tempting food if they have loss of appetite dog. Gentle wiping of a runny nose in dogs and using a humidifier can help. However, always talk to your vet before giving any medicine or using specific home treatments. Never give human cold medicine.
H4 Q: How can I tell the difference between a cold and allergies in my dog?
H5 A: Both can cause sneezing and a runny nose in dogs (usually clear discharge with allergies). However, allergies often cause itchy skin, paws, or ears, which aren’t typical symptoms of a dog cold. Colds are more likely to have coughing (dog coughing and sneezing) and signs of being generally unwell like lethargy in dogs and loss of appetite dog. If you aren’t sure, your vet can help figure it out.
H4 Q: Can a dog cold turn into something worse?
H5 A: Yes. A simple viral cold can sometimes lead to secondary bacterial infections, pneumonia, or worsen other existing health problems, especially in puppies, older dogs, or dogs with weak immune systems. Watching for severe canine respiratory infection symptoms and knowing when to see vet dog cold signs worsen is key to preventing serious issues.
H4 Q: How do dogs catch colds?
H5 A: Dogs usually catch cold-like illnesses by being around other sick dogs. This happens by inhaling tiny droplets in the air when a sick dog coughs or sneezes (dog coughing and sneezing), or by touching contaminated surfaces like shared water bowls, toys, or kennel fencing.
H4 Q: My dog is coughing but acts normal otherwise. Is that a cold?
H5 A: A cough, especially a dry, hacking one like kennel cough symptoms, is often the first and sometimes only obvious sign of a mild canine respiratory infection. If your dog is still eating, playing, and has energy (no lethargy in dogs or loss of appetite dog), it might be a mild case. However, it’s still contagious to other dogs. It’s best to keep them home and call your vet to see if they need to be seen, especially to rule out other causes of coughing.
H4 Q: Can stress make my dog sick?
H5 A: Yes. Stress can weaken a dog’s immune system, making them more likely to catch infections, including canine respiratory illnesses. Giving your dog a stable, loving environment helps keep them healthy.
H4 Q: Do older dogs get colds more easily?
H5 A: Older dogs, like very young puppies, often have immune systems that are not as strong. This means they can be more likely to catch infections and might take longer to recover. If an older dog shows any signs your dog is sick, you should talk to your vet sooner rather than later.
H4 Q: Is a runny nose always a sign of a cold?
H5 A: Not always. A clear, watery runny nose in dogs can also be caused by allergies, excitement, or something irritating their nose briefly. However, if the runny nose is constant, heavy, or if the discharge becomes thick or colored (yellow, green), or if it happens with other signs like coughing, sneezing, tiredness, or not eating, it is much more likely to be a sign of sickness.
H4 Q: Should I worry about my dog’s fever?
H5 A: A mild fever (up to around 103°F) can be a normal part of fighting off an infection. However, high fevers (over 104°F) can be dangerous and need immediate vet care. Also, any fever in a puppy or older dog is more concerning. Look for dog fever signs like severe tiredness and not wanting to eat, and call your vet if you are worried or if you measure a high temperature.