It takes most dogs at least a week to recover from a typical dog cold but it’s not always easy to determine if they have one in the first place.
In case you might be asking yourself, dog cold is just as common as you will find with humans.
That is to say, dogs are just as vulnerable to the virus and the symptoms are also quite similar.
But what are these symptoms and how can you tell if your dog has a cold?
In this article, we discuss the typical symptoms associated with dog cold and how you can help your beloved pet get over this virus as quickly as possible.
How and Why Does Dog Cold Happen?
Dog cold is caused by different viruses with the most common being adenovirus type 2. Now, you need not remember this name but it helps to know the basics when you have a dog of your own.
That being said, there are several more types which are equally common such as canine parainfluenza and bordatella bronchiseptica.
It’s a mouthful, right?
..Anyway, let’s take a look at the symptoms of dog cold:
The Most Common Symptoms of Dog Cold
If your dog is sneezing or coughing a lot, this is a common sign of dog cold.
Similarly, a blocked or runny nose can suggest a cold, while a distinct lack of energy can accompany the above.
With this in mind, many dogs also tend to sleep a lot more than usual when they have a dog cold.
At the same time, you should also know that dog cold symptoms can also suggest something more serious is wrong.
For example, these same symptoms can potentially indicate a fungal infection or the presence of parasites. More specifically, if your dog is snorting or wheezing, this is not good.
You see, dogs have a different nose structure to humans and even something like congestion can pose very serious problems.
Trapped mucus can even lead to pneumonia and this is the last thing you want.
Now, please know that none of this is intended to scare you in any way but rather to make sure that you take the right precautions and help your dog recover as quickly as possible.
here are some of the more serious illnesses that can arise.
Types of Illness You Might Notice Aside from Dog Cold
- Parasites – Diarrhea, bloating and vomiting are common in the presence of a parasite. Also, you may notice that your dog has no appetite and coughing a lot more than usual.
- Canine Flu – Vomiting and discharge from the eyes can suggest canine flu. What’s more, dogs will develop a fever during this time and have an especially high body heat.
- Fungal Infection – Fever and loss of appetite will happen with a fungal infection. Also, your dog will have trouble breathing and sometimes eye inflammation or discharge from the eyes.
- Kennel Cough – If your dog is coughing with a “hacking” sound, this can indicate kennel cough.
- Bronchitis – Excessive coughing and trouble with breathing can suggest bronchitis. This will usually last for quite a long time and your dog will also vomit on occasion.
..And did you spot any of these signs or symptoms?
You should always go straight to the local vet and have your dog assessed.
Okay, it might just be a cold but any of the above symptoms can mean something much worse and you don’t want to take risks.
You must also understand that your dog does not have the same immune system as a human and for this reason alone, they are especially vulnerable to an illness of any kind.
As for how you can treat dog cold, there are certain things on which to keep an eye:
5 Ways that You Can Help Treat Dog Cold
- Warmth – Try to keep your dog dry and warm.
- Exercise – Avoid letting your dog go crazy when it comes to exercise.
- Food – Try to stick with single ingredient food that they can digest easily.
- Water – Encourage your dog to drink as much water as possible.
- Vitamins – Did you know that you can give you dog special multivitamins? (Check with your vet)
Otherwise, rest and sleep are always good for your dog and if matter persists, consult your vet again.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, treating dog cold is much the same as with a human.
However, as already mentioned, the associated symptoms are far more serious and dangerous for dogs.
Either way, it’s important to pay attention to these symptoms and ensure the best health for your dog at all times.
