Can dogs catch colds

Dogs can catch colds, and the symptoms can range from mild to severe, depending on the type of cold virus they are infected with (just like a human cold can range in severity from different).

They get colds after the temperature drops or due to seasonal allergies caused by pollen in the air. There are many other factors that can cause colds in dogs. In humans, the most common virus that causes colds is rhinovirus. In dogs, the most common viruses are canine adenovirus type 2, canine respiratory coronavirus, canine parainfluenza virus, and Bordetella bronchiseptica.

Can human colds be transmitted to dogs?

It is a common misconception that dogs and other pets can catch colds from humans. Although the symptoms of a cold in dogs may be similar to those in humans, the viruses are different and colds do not cross species. So if you two catch a cold at the same time, don't worry, it's just an unfortunate coincidence. The conclusion is that humans cannot infect dogs with colds, and conversely, dogs cannot infect humans with colds.

Symptoms of a cold in dogs

Symptoms should be familiar; they are very similar to colds in humans.

1. Sneezing

2. Nasal congestion and difficulty breathing

3.Runny nose

4. Nasal secretions may be yellow-green

5. Cough

6. Big watery eyes

7. Loss of appetite

8. Reduced activities

9. Sleepy (always sleeping)

10. Fever

In some varieties, even the common cold can be serious. Brachycephalic or flat-faced breeds are more likely to have breathing problems. In these dogs, symptoms of the common cold are more extreme and include:

1. Snoring

2. Breathing

3. Increased snoring

Due to the different structures of the nasal cavity and nasal passages, mucus is more likely to become a secondary infection, such as pneumonia.

Causes of colds

Causes of colds in dogs include a variety of viruses that cause different symptoms:

1. Adenovirus 2

Adenovirus type 2 is the main cause of canine colds. It causes many of the typical symptoms in dogs and may lead to kennel cough.

2. Canine influenza virus

Canine influenza virus causes infection, resulting in persistent coughing for up to 3 weeks. It also causes discharge from the nose and eyes, and the animals suffer from a low-grade fever. In some cases, dogs may develop a high fever as their breathing rate increases.

3. Canine distemper

This viral disease not only causes signs of respiratory infection, but also causes symptoms of gastrointestinal infection. It is a serious viral disease with a high mortality rate. The initial symptoms of canine distemper are watery discharge from the eyes, fever, nasal discharge, cough, and sore throat.Sleep, loss of appetite and vomiting

4. Kennel Cough

One of the common causes of colds in dogs is kennel cough. This disease occurs in dogs living in kennels and other confined areas. This disease causes coughing. It may be caused by an adenovirus or a coronavirus. Bordetella bronchiseptica (bacteria) is the most common cause of this infection.

5. Parainfluenza virus

Parainfluenza virus causes a highly contagious respiratory infection in dogs. Symptoms of this condition include chronic sneezing and coughing.

6. Bronchitis

Bronchitis may cause coughing, difficulty breathing or prolonged wheezing, and vomiting or retching.

7. Fungal infections

Fungal infections may cause fever, loss of appetite, weight loss, eye discharge, eye inflammation, difficulty breathing (coughing or wheezing) and skin lesions

8. Parasites

Parasites may also cause diarrhea, vomiting, bloating, appetite and skin changes, and persistent coughing.

Dog colds are minor symptoms and do not require medical attention. However, if there is no change after two days of treatment, please seek medical attention because it may not be a simple cold but caused by one of the above diseases.

How to Treat a Cold at Home

As with humans, when your dog comes down with a cold, it's often best to use simple home remedies to help relieve and relieve cold symptoms.

1. Feed chicken soup

Although it may sound a little strange, warm (not hot) chicken soup is sometimes as good for dogs fighting the cold as it is for humans. A low-sodium chicken broth with chicken breasts, cooked vegetables, and brown rice will provide your dog with the energy and nutrients he needs to help fight off the cold.

Science supports the fact that chicken soup actually helps fight colds. Chicken soup keeps your dog hydrated and boosts his immune system. It will also make it easier for him to eat when he lacks energy.

2. Turn on the humidifier

The steam from the humidifier can promote smooth breathing when the dog is infected with the virus. You can also use the heat of the bathroom to help your dog breathe more easily (stay there for about 10 minutes). If you like, you can add a small amount of essential oil, such as eucalyptus or peppermint oil, to the water to help your dog breathe easier.

3. Plenty of water

Dogs need to stay hydrated in order to recover from a cold. Soup can help with this problem, but it's not enough, make sure your dog drinks plenty of water. Don't give it orange juice; it's good for people, not good for dogs. Giving it simple warm water is better. If you need to induce her to drink, add a little low-sodium chicken or beef broth to the water. (You can also add a small amount of pure goat milk powder)

4. Exercise less, rest more

Like humans, dogs need plenty ofIt takes a lot of rest to start feeling better. Give him a warm blanket to sleep on, or you can use an automatic heated bed for him (make sure your dog doesn’t catch a cold)

5. Vitamin supplements and natural remedies

Fruits and vegetables are natural sources of vitamins for your dog, and most dogs enjoy them. However, citrus fruits are not a good choice for dogs. Vitamin C is important for helping the immune system, so remember not to give vitamin C supplements to humans. It is recommended to supplement pet-specific vitamin C as soon as possible when the weather changes, the weather is cold, and you sneeze. (When a dog is diagnosed with a cold in the early stage, giving it a supplement of pet-specific vitamin C will have significant changes and even cure the cold. However, if it is delayed and develops into a runny nose, you can only seek medical treatment)

You can also try giving your dog honey (wild honey) or coconut oil. Honey has impressive antibacterial, antibacterial, antiviral, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties. Giving your dog a cup and a half to a few teaspoons of honey every day should help your dog fight off colds. Coconut oil is also known as an infection fighter as it helps kill harmful bacteria, viruses, yeast, fungi, and parasites. The recommended dose is 1 teaspoon per 10 pounds of dog weight per day.