Have you wondered if your furry friend would also catch the flu when you become sick? It’s a valid worry especially when your dog keeps coming in closer for warmth. In this post, we’ll look at scientific answers to this question and try to clear up the concern so you can continue to cuddle!
What Is “Dog Flu,” Anyway?
First, let’s clarify: yes, dogs do get the flu, but it’s a separate virus to the one humans catch. Canine influenza has the distinct strains of H3N2 and H3N8 which comes from birds, horses, or other animals unlike people. These dog flu viruses do not resemble the human flu and there is no proof dogs are capable of getting or giving flu to people.
Why the Confusion? Dogs Have Their Own Bugs
Yes, dogs are not able to catch the human flu, however, that does not mean they can not catch any other virus. Many things like kennel cough, parainfluenza, adenovirus, or even a canine coronavirus can make them stuffy, cough, or lethargic in a way people would suffer from a cold. These dog specific diseases are the ones mostly to blame for the confusion, not the transmission of viruses or bacteria from humans.
Human Flu: Safe from Your Pup’s Perspective
No need to panic! Your dog will not be put in danger if you have the flu. This is because flu viruses are specific to certain species. Doctors from the Infectious Disease department at Vanderbilt University are supportive about that fact stating, “The pet is a comfort, not a hazard… you can’t get a cold or the flu from your dog or cat”.
So Can Dogs Ever Catch Human Flu?
Dogs have not been documented to catch human flu, but there have been some rare instances. In one instance, a cat from Iowa possibly contracted H1N1 from it’s owners, but the ability to have cross species transmission with pets is still not understood and is very uncommon with dogs. In summary, the answer is no, dogs are not capable of catching the normal human influenza viruses.
What to Do If Your Dog Seems “Flu-ish”
If your pup is experiencing some coughing, sneezing and is not feeling well, here is what you can do:
- Call your vet. They can do an assessment and determine whether it’s influenza, or another infection in the respiratory system.
- Your dog must be kept apart from other dogs, more so if you do suspect canine flu, as these viruses can be easily spread amongst animals.
- Give rest, fluids, and a nice warm place to recover, supportive care is crucial.
- If your dog is in regular contact with other dogs at the park, daycare or even boarding, ask about the canine influenza vaccine.
- Practicing good hygiene should always be the first thing to do when your dog is sick. Wash your hands, change clothing, and clean surfaces to reduce any indirect risk of spreading dog viruses around.
Final Thoughts
To put it simply, both you and your dog do not have to worry about transmitting flu viruses to one another. Humans can’t infect dogs with the flu, and likewise, dogs can’t infect humans with canine flu. Your pup’s coughs and sniffles? Most likely some of the respiratory viruses that dogs get. They are best handled through veterinary rest and preventative vaccines. So go ahead and shower your pup with love! Your bond will only grow stronger, and educating yourself is an essential part of taking care of your dog.
To find out more about dogs catching viruses, check out Outdoor Dog World article titled “Can Dogs Get COVID?“
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