Can dogs catch the flu?

Dog Flu: Keep Your Pet Safe. You've heard of flu outbreaks making people sick, but they can happen to dogs, too. Our doggie friends can catch "canine influenza," which not only makes them feel bad, but can be dangerous to them. Scientists discovered one strain of this flu, called the H3N8 virus, more than 40 years ago. read more

Up to 20% of dogs with the flu don’t show any symptoms. Risks. Most dogs that get the virus survive it. But canine influenza "can cause more serious illness than the average respiratory infection,” says Cynda Crawford, DVM, PhD, of the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine. In some cases, this type of flu can turn into pneumonia. read more

Dogs catch the flu the same way we do. Sharing water, food, kisses, or hugs with anyone that is infected can cause a dog to come down with the flu. If your dog is older or happens to be on any medications that tend to weaken the immune system, they may be more susceptible. read more

While the human flu shares similar symptoms with the common cold, if your body is feeling achy and you have a fever, there's a chance you have a more serious condition–influenza. read more