You might have come across your dog sneezing and looking a little under the weather. If so, then it seems that your dog has a cold. While dogs don’t catch the same cold viruses that humans do, they can develop respiratory infections that look very similar.

These dog cold symptoms can make life very uncomfortable for our best friends, with some even potentially worsening when left untreated.

The good news is that even though dogs can have colds, most cases are mild and can be managed at home. With that said, we’re going to share everything there is to know about dog colds and how to help. 

What Causes Dog Cold?

When a dog shows signs of a cold, there isn’t a single reason why. There are several factors and agents involved in this condition. 

Viruses

Viruses are the most common cause of cold-like symptoms in dogs. Canine influenza virus, canine adenovirus, canine distemper virus, and canine parainfluenza virus are the commonly observed agents. These viruses attack the dog’s respiratory tract and cause the symptoms of dog cold. 

Many of the viruses are highly contagious, which means they can easily spread among dogs who have close contact with one another. 

Bacteria

Bacterial agents can also cause the dog cold. The most common type is Bordetella bronchiseptica, the most common cause of kennel cough. Other culprits can include those of the Mycoplasma species. 

The bacteria irritate the dog’s airways, triggering the symptoms and progressing into more serious conditions when left untreated. 

Allergies

Sometimes, allergies can present cold-like symptoms in dogs. These can come from allergic reactions to pollen, dust, mold, chemicals, and many other allergens. They work by irritating the respiratory tract and causing difficulties with everyday breathing. 

Unlike infectious agents, allergies can flare up depending on the season or specific environment. 

Fungi

While not as common, fungal infections in dogs can also trigger cold-like symptoms. These agents are inhaled from a moist and damp environment, where the fungal spores thrive. Common causes include Blastomyces, Histoplasma, and Coccidioides.

How Can Dogs Catch a Cold?

Dogs can catch colds through several methods, which include: 

• Airborne Droplets. When a sick dog coughs or sneezes, tiny droplets carrying viruses or bacteria are released into the air. Other dogs nearby can easily inhale these germs and become infected.

• Direct Contact. Dogs that greet each other nose-to-nose, lick, or share close physical interactions can pass on the infectious agents of a cold. 

• Shared Objects. Shared objects such as toys, food bowls, and even bedding can carry the pathogens that come from a sick dog. When a healthy dog comes into contact with these, they’ll be at risk of an infection. 

• Contaminated Environments. Unhygienic kennels, grooming salons, and daycare centers are places where dogs are in close contact with one another. Here, illnesses such as the dog cold can easily spread. 

Dog Cold Symptoms: How to Know if My Dog Has a Cold​?

Spotting a cold in dogs can have symptoms that overlap with other conditions. Still, it’s crucial to take note of each of them so the diagnostic process can go smoothly. 

• Sneezing and Coughing. These signs are some of the most obvious signs that your dog has a cold or a respiratory infection. A light sneeze may not mean much, but frequent sneezing or coughing can indicate irritation in the airways. 

• Runny Nose and Nasal Discharge. A runny nose is also another symptom of dog cold. Here, the dog’s nose may have clear fluid discharge. If this discharge is thick, yellow, or green, then it might be a bacterial infection. 

• Watery Eyes. Dogs with a cold often have watery eyes. Sometimes, it can be due to an allergic reaction. In others, it might be a serious infection. 

• Lethargy and Fatigue. If your dog has a cold, they’ll be visibly tired. They’ll hesitate to play and even lie down more often. 

• Reduced Appetite. Similarly, they’ll also lose interest in their meals and favorite treats. You might notice that their bowls will still have food.