Now is the time for colds and sore throats. But colds don't just plague us, they can also affect our furry friends. A "cold" in dogs usually refers to a mild infection of the upper respiratory tract caused by viruses or bacteria. It is similar to the human common cold, but not identical. It is usually harmless, but should be monitored closely.
Here you can find out how to recognize a cold in dogs at an early stage and how best to react to it.
From: Alena Thielert
Make sure your four-legged friend gets enough rest. Shorten walks and avoid playing wildly. A warm, draught-free place and thorough drying of the coat after rain and snow are also important, especially in winter, If your dog coughs a lot or the nasal discharge becomes purulent, you should visit your veterinary practice to be on the safe side.
Small portions of lukewarm water or broth (without onions or garlic) are also recommended. You can also place a bowl of hot water in the room to humidify the air. Make sure that it is safely out of your dog's reach. Short, careful inhalations with lukewarm saline solution can also contribute positively to recovery - but only if your dog tolerates this without stress and there is no danger from too hot steam.
Don't give your dog human medication under any circumstances. Keep stress levels low and avoid running around. Avoid strongly spiced or spicy food, just as you would outside of a cold. If the condition worsens or if it is a puppy or senior, seek veterinary advice at an early stage.
Colds also bring their own insidious symptoms in our beloved four-legged friends. These include:
Important: As similar symptoms can also occur in more serious respiratory diseases, a veterinary check-up is always recommended if you are unsure.
Measure your dog's fever rectally. In the event of shortness of breath, high fever (≥ 40.0 °C), foul-smelling phlegm, bloody sputum or dehydration, you should visit your trusted veterinary practice immediately. Puppies, senior dogs and dogs with previous illnesses should also be taken to the practice as soon as symptoms appear.
Kennel cough often manifests itself with a paroxysmal, "warbling" cough that is associated with gagging. It is caused by various pathogens such as the Bordetella bronchiseptica bacterium or parainfluenza viruses and is highly contagious. Preventive vaccination can be given against some of these pathogens.
A real flu is more severe, but is rare. If your dog's cold lasts longer than 3 to 5 days, you should pay a visit to your veterinary practice to rule out flu or other illnesses to be on the safe side.
My dog has a cold: What's the best course of action? Here you'll find the best tips and tricks to help your furry friend recover quickly.
Protection, warmth, plenty to drink and humid room air are half the battle. Make sure you eat easily digestible meals at a comfortable temperature that are easy on the throat. Short walks on a lead are also okay. The most important thing is not to overwork your dog.
Your vet will check whether there is a bacterial infection, kennel cough or lung involvement. Cough suppressants, anti-inflammatories or antibiotics will be prescribed depending on the findings. Please do not give any of these on your own, listen to your vet's advice.
Among dogs, yes - so avoid contact with coughing dogs. Infection between humans and dogs is rather unlikely, but hygiene and caution are always advisable.
Colds in dogs usually clear up within 3 to 7 days. As soon as the cough and nasal discharge improve, you can slowly increase your furry friend's activity. If the cold lasts longer, you should visit your veterinary practice again and have further examinations carried out.
If you want to help your furry friend through the cold season in good health, you should follow these tips:
Dry your four-legged friend's coat thoroughly after rain or snow, watch out for draughts - whether in the car or at home - and avoid large groups of dogs during cold spells. Also make sure that blankets and bowls are cleaned regularly. This reduces the germ load, which is particularly important for sensitive animals.
Regular veterinary check-ups and an up-to-date vaccination status - for example against kennel cough - can also help prevent respiratory infections.
Stress can weaken your dog's immune system. Therefore, ensure stable routines, sufficient sleep and restful rest periods. Dogs with colds need more sleep and rest than usual. This reduces the risk of your four-legged friend catching a cold.
A balanced and well-tolerated diet supports your dog's immune system. The easily digestible, hypoallergenic wet food SENSITIVE Lupine Proteinis suitable for sensitive dogs. You can also opt for immune-friendly snacks such as VEGGIES immune , which contain selected ingredients such as sea buckthorn and turmeric.
In general, a balanced, healthy diet is the basis for a strong immune system and the well-being of your dog.
Alena Thielert
