Can Dogs Get The Flu?

Almost All Dogs Are at Risk

Can dogs get the flu? Yes. Canine Influenza, or Dog Flu, hasn't been around long. But as a serious respiratory illness, it can be a real threat to your dog. There are two different types, or strains, of dog flu virus. The first, H3N8, was reported in 2003, while H3N2 was first reported in 2015.

Both types are highly contagious and spread easily from dog to dog. The H3N2 strain can even be transmitted to and from cats. However, neither type can be spread to or from humans. Your dog can't catch the flu from you. And you can't give the flu to your dog.

Many dogs that visit dog parks and doggie day cares are vaccinated for canine (kennel) cough, also known as Bordetella. It's an important vaccine. But if your dog does catch Bordetella, the disease can be easily treated with antibiotics.

Dog Flu is Different

The only treatment is supportive, which means making your dog as comfortable as possible while the virus runs its course. There is no "cure" for dog flu, and in some cases, it can lead to pneumonia or secondary bacterial infections. That can be very serious — even deadly.

80-90%
of dogs exposed to
Dog Flu will become
infected¹

10-20%
of dogs will contract
Dog Flu but won't
show symptoms¹

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1 in 5

dogs with Dog Flu will
develop severe symptoms¹

up to 8^%

of infected dogs
may die from
Dog Flu-related
complication¹

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