What to Do When Your Dog Has a Cold

Okay, picture this: your furry best friend, usually a ball of boundless energy, is suddenly looking a bit… blah. Maybe a runny nose, a bit of a cough, and definitely less zoomies happening. Yep, it sounds like your pooch might be battling a cold. Don’t panic! Just like us humans, dogs can catch colds, and with the right care, they usually bounce back in no time. We’re going to dive deep into what to do, from spotting the symptoms to providing the best TLC.

Is it Really a Cold or Something More Serious?

So, your dog is sniffling and sneezing, but how do you know it’s just a simple cold and not something that warrants a vet visit? That’s a super valid question! Key things to watch out for are how long the symptoms last and the overall severity. A regular dog cold often shows up as a mild cough, a bit of clear or slightly whitish nasal discharge, sneezing, and maybe a little lethargy. If it’s just those things and your dog is still eating and drinking okay, it’s likely a cold. However, if the discharge turns yellow or green, your dog is having trouble breathing, has a fever (over 102.5°F), is refusing food or water, or is extremely weak and lethargic, it’s time to call the vet. These symptoms could indicate a more serious issue like kennel cough, pneumonia, or even distemper, which require professional veterinary care ASAP. Think of a dog cold as kind of the sniffles, versus flu-like symptoms where it’s obvious something more is going on. Don’t hesitate to consult a vet if you’re unsure, it’s always better to be safe than sorry! And even with a normal cold, if you are concerned, trust your gut and get it checked out. You know your dog best.

Home Remedies to Soothe Your Sniffly Pup

Okay, your vet trip is out of the way (or not necessary at this time), and it’s confirmed: your dog has a run-of-the-mill cold. Now, let’s talk about how you can make your canine companion feel more comfortable. Imagine yourself dealing with a cold: you want cozy blankets, warm liquids, and someone to take care of you, right? It’s pretty much the same for our dogs.

First, hydration is absolutely crucial. A lot of dogs get picky about their water when they’re not feeling their best. Try adding a little chicken or beef broth (low sodium and no onions, please!) to their water bowl to entice them to drink more. You can even warm it up slightly—it’s like a warm tea for your pup. A humidifier can work wonders, too! The moist air helps to loosen congestion, making it easier for them to breathe. If you don’t have a humidifier, try bringing your dog into the bathroom while you take a warm shower. The steam can give them the same relief.

Now, about rest. No marathon playdates or fetch sessions for a bit. Encourage your dog to chill and get plenty of shut-eye. A quiet, comfortable place is what they need, and maybe even a cozy blanket to snuggle in. Keep the house warm and drafts to a minimum, the same as when we get sick. Gentle petting and quiet time are what you want, to avoid excitement or over stimulation, while letting them know that they are cared for. It is important they feel safe and secure.

Diet also matters. If your dog has a decreased appetite, try offering some bland food that’s easy to digest like plain cooked chicken and rice. This is gentle on their stomach and will help them maintain their strength while they’re recovering. No new foods, or rich meals while they are ill, keep it simple and familiar.

A little bit of honey can also be soothing for a cough, just like it is for humans. A teaspoon of honey mixed into warm water, or even given plain can provide some relief and reduce irritation. Make sure it is pure and not from a plant or flower that can be toxic to your dog, use common sense and ensure the honey is safe for consumption by dogs.

And remember, patience is key! It takes time for a cold to run its course. Don’t try to rush things, just make sure they are comfortable and get plenty of love and rest.

When is Time to Panic and Visit the Vet?

While most dog colds are easily managed at home, it’s super important to recognize when things are veering into more serious territory. Think of it this way: if you wouldn’t let your own symptoms slide, don’t let your dog’s either. You know your dog best. If their cough worsens, becomes a deep, hacking cough, or if they start making wheezing or rattling noises when they breathe, this can be a sign of something much more serious like kennel cough or bronchitis, and you need to get to the vet pronto.

Any discharge from their eyes or nose that is yellow, green, or thick can also indicate a more severe infection. Blood in their nasal discharge or a sudden loss of appetite should also be red flags, which you should take to a vet.

Lethargy that lasts for more than a day is another cause for concern. If your dog is completely uninterested in anything, isn’t responsive, won’t eat or drink, or is very weak and wobbly, don’t wait – get them seen by a vet. Also, pay attention to their temperature, If they have a fever, their gums are pale, they are shaking or seem disoriented, again, head to the vet.

It’s always better to be overly cautious when it comes to our fur babies’ health. When in doubt, it’s best to call your veterinarian, describe your dog’s symptoms, and let the professionals advise you. They’re there to help, and it’s better to get them seen and get treatment if necessary than it is to wait and hope for the best.

Taking care of a sick dog can be stressful, but you’ve got this! With some love, attention, and the right home care (plus a vet visit when necessary) your furry friend will be back to their old, tail-wagging self in no time. And remember, it’s all about keeping them cozy and making sure they know they are deeply loved.