Can Dogs Catch The Flu From Humans

Your dog may experience the following.

Can dogs catch the flu from humans. No your dog can t catch a cold from a human. Unfortunately the h1n1 virus commonly known as the swine flu can be passed from humans to canines according to the centers for disease control and prevention. In other words it s not a contagious scenario to snuggle up with your best buddy. But there is a canine influenza virus so we encourage you to keep reading to learn more about the condition.

Dogs also can t get the same type of flu as humans but they can get canine flu. In fact many of your dog s symptoms will mimic a human s. In most cases however dogs will catch the flu via contact with other infected dogs. Methods of transmission include barking coughing sneezing or sharing water or food.

Can a dog get a cold from another dog. The common cold virus that impacts us is unique to human biology meaning that the germs that leave us feeling terrible will have no impact on dogs. While you may not be able to pass your cold to your pet that doesn t mean another dog s sneezing can t get your pup sick. It cannot be transmitted to animals says petmd.

On the other hand there is scientific evidence that the flu or h1n1 specifically can be passed from animals to people. The symptoms are relatively similar to flu in humans but have a different cause. Dogs also get the flu but it is nearly impossible for them to catch the human strain of the virus. Dogs catch the flu the same way we do.

Dogs do get the flu but it is usually caused by specific canine influenza viruses similar to the situation with colds. Previously we did not think dogs could come down with the human flu. Sneezing runny nose coughing lethargy lack of appetite and fever. However reports have been published where humans and dogs were infected with some of the same types of influenza viruses.

Unfortunately the answer to that is yes. The vast majority of dogs in the u s. Sharing water food kisses or hugs with anyone that is infected can cause a dog to come down with the flu. A human cold can only affect humans.

If your dog is older or happens to be on any medications that tend to weaken the immune system they may be more susceptible. The dog flu strain separate from the flu epidemic affecting humans is highly contagious and can even be fatal. If your dog is exposed to the virus that causes dog flu the chances of catching it are close to 100 crawford says. Have not been previously infected or vaccinated against dog flu it s possible for people to give their dogs the virus too.