Key takeaways
Dog flu is caused by the canine influenza virus and presents with coughing, sneezing, and fever.
- It is highly contagious, and dogs in kennels and other densely populated areas are most at risk
- Dogs often recover from the flu on their own, although severe cases may lead to secondary pneumonia which may be fatal
- A diagnosis of canine flu may be suggested by the history and clinical signs without any additional testing
- Bloodwork and diagnostic imaging may be ordered to rule out other conditions
- PCR testing may used to confirm the diagnosis
- Dog flu rarely requires treatment
- Supportive treatment may be indicated if symptoms are severe
- Secondary bacterial infections or pneumonia are treated with antibiotics
- Vaccines against dog flu are available and may be indicated per veterinary direction
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A closer look: Influenza in Dogs
Dog flu is uncommon in general, but highly contagious. Dogs who visit congested areas such as kennels or dog parks are particularly susceptible and local outbreaks resulting in many infected dogs may occur. It is important to isolate animals presenting with symptoms so as to not pass the condition on to other pets.
Vaccines for influenza are available. These do not prevent infection, but significantly decrease transmission and severity.
Mild cases may not require treatment, but severe cases lead to secondary pneumonia, which may be fatal. Symptomatic animals benefit from immediate veterinary attention.
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Risk factors
Secondary bacterial pneumonia may arise from influenza. Symptoms of pneumonia are similar to dog flu.
Possible causes
Dog flu is caused by infection with a canine influenza virus.
Transmission occurs through droplets expelled by coughing, sneezing, and barking, as well as through direct nose-to-nose or mouth contact. Dogs can also pick up the virus from contaminated surfaces such as dog cages, the ground, and food dishes.
Main symptoms
Testing and diagnosis
The history and presenting signs may be sufficient to suggest a diagnosis in some cases. When other conditions with similar symptoms must be ruled in or out, diagnostics include:
- A physical examination
- Diagnostic imaging
- Bloodwork
- PCR tests
- Immunoassays
Steps to Recovery
Canine influenza is usually self limiting, and animals rarely require treatment. Supportive therapy is indicated when symptoms are severe, including IV fluids, supplemental oxygen, and nutritional support.
Dog flu may be accompanied by secondary infections. While antibiotics are not indicated for viral infections, they may be utilized against bacterial infections.
Cases with secondary pneumonia are additionally treated with antibiotics, coupage, and nebulization.
Most dogs recover from flu within less than a month, although prognosis varies depending on the age and health of an affected animal.
Most cases are self-limiting and the symptoms are mild. Severe complications like bacterial pneumonia occur in some cases, and this worsens the prognosis. Fatalities are rare.
Prognosis is more grave if a dog requires hospitalization, such as in cases with bacterial pneumonia.
Prevention
Isolating affected dogs for approximately 21 days helps prevent transmission. There are also vaccines against canine influenza, per veterinary direction.
Keeping a clean living environment, regularly washing cages, eating areas, and hands reduces transmission in a multi-dog space.
Is Influenza in Dogs common?
Dog flu is not common, although when an outbreak occurs many dogs in the local area are likely to be infected.
Typical Treatment
- IV Fluid therapy
- Oxygen therapy
- Hydration
- Medication (Antibiotics)
- Coupage
- Nebulization
