What Are the Symptoms of the Flu in Dogs?

Have you ever noticed your dog acting a little off maybe coughing, sneezing, or just not their usual playful self? You might be wondering, "Can dogs get the flu?"

The answer is yes. Just like humans, dogs can catch the flu, and when they do, they feel just as lousy as we do. This illness, called canine influenza, is caused by specific dog flu viruses (H3N8 and H3N2), and it spreads quickly especially in places where dogs socialize, like parks, daycare centers, and boarding kennels.

The good news? Dog flu isn’t usually life-threatening. But it’s important to recognize the symptoms early so you can help your pup recover as quickly as possible.

How Do You Know If Your Dog Has the Flu?

Dog flu symptoms can look a lot like other respiratory infections, so it’s easy to mistake them for a common cold or even kennel cough. Here’s what to watch for:

1. Persistent Coughing

One of the first signs of dog flu is a deep, nagging cough that just won’t go away. Some dogs have a dry, hacking cough, while others sound like they have a lot of mucus in their throat. If your pup has been coughing for more than a few days, it’s worth getting them checked out.

2. Runny Nose & Sneezing

A little sneezing here and there is normal, but if your dog starts sneezing a lot and has a runny nose, it could be the flu. At first, their nasal discharge might be clear, but if it turns yellow or green, that’s a sign of a secondary infection.

3. Fever

Just like humans, dogs can run a fever when they’re sick. A healthy dog’s temperature is between 101–102.5°F anything above 103°F is a red flag. If your dog feels hot to the touch, is shivering, or seems extra tired, they might have a fever.

4. Low Energy & Lethargy

Is your usually bouncy dog suddenly sleeping all day? Flu can zap their energy, making them sluggish and uninterested in their usual activities. If your pup isn’t acting like themselves, take note.

5. Loss of Appetite

Flu can make dogs lose their appetite, just like it does in humans. If your pup is ignoring their food or only picking at their meals, that could be another clue.

6. Watery or Red Eyes

Some dogs with the flu develop red, irritated, or watery eyes. It’s a small but noticeable sign that something isn’t quite right.

7. Trouble Breathing

In severe cases, canine flu can turn into pneumonia, leading to labored breathing, wheezing, or excessive panting. If your dog seems to be struggling to breathe, don’t wait get them to a vet as soon as possible.

How Do Dogs Catch the Flu?

Dog flu spreads just like the human flu through coughs, sneezes, and contaminated surfaces. Your pup can catch it by:

• Sniffing or licking another dog’s toys, bowls, or bedding
  
  
• Being in close contact with an infected dog at a park, daycare, or kennel
  
  
• Picking it up from humans who have handled a sick dog (yes, you can carry the virus on your hands or clothes)

Even worse, a dog can spread the virus for up to four weeks, even if they don’t look sick. That’s why flu outbreaks in dog communities can get out of control fast.

When Should You See a Vet?

Most dogs recover from the flu within two to three weeks with rest, hydration, and good nutrition. But some cases can be more serious.

Take your dog to the vet if they:

• Have trouble breathing
  
  
• Stop eating or drinking for more than 24 hours
  
  
• Have thick yellow or green nasal discharge
  
  
• Are extremely weak or lethargic

A vet might prescribe fluids, antibiotics (for secondary infections), or cough suppressants to help your pup feel better. In rare cases, dogs with pneumonia may need hospitalization.

Can You Prevent Dog Flu?

While there’s no foolproof way to prevent dog flu, you can reduce the risk with these simple steps:

• Vaccination – There’s a flu shot for dogs. It’s especially recommended if your pup spends time in boarding facilities, daycare, or dog parks.
  
  
• Avoid Outbreaks – If there’s a flu outbreak in your area, keep your pup away from high-risk places.
  
  
• Practice Good Hygiene – Wash your hands after touching other dogs, and disinfect shared items like water bowls and toys.

Final Thoughts

Dog flu might not be as common as the human flu, but it can still knock your pup off their paws for a while. The key is to catch the symptoms early and make sure they get plenty of rest and care.

If your dog seems sick, keep them hydrated, warm, and comfortable, and reach out to your vet if their symptoms get worse.