Yes — dogs can get the flu. Canine influenza (CIV) is a contagious respiratory infection that spreads among dogs and causes symptoms that look familiar: persistent coughing, runny nose, fever, and fatigue. It's caused by two influenza A strains adapted specifically for dogs and can move quickly through any environment where dogs interact closely. Here's what pet parents need to know about how dog flu spreads, what it looks like, and how to respond.
What Is Canine Influenza?
Canine influenza is caused by two strains of influenza A virus that have adapted to circulate among dogs: H3N8, which originated in horses before jumping to dogs, and H3N2, which originated in birds.² According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)¹, both strains are now present in the United States and can infect dogs regardless of age, breed, or vaccination status.
Unlike human seasonal flu, which follows a predictable winter pattern, canine influenza can occur at any time of year. Most dogs have little to no prior immunity to either strain, which means nearly all exposed dogs become infected — though the severity of illness varies significantly from dog to dog.
What Are the Symptoms of Dog Flu?
The most consistent sign of canine influenza is a persistent cough — one that lasts 10 to 21 days and doesn't resolve with typical kennel cough treatments.¹ Additional symptoms include:
Runny nose (nasal discharge ranging from clear to thick and discolored)
Fever — up to 104–105°F in some cases¹
Eye discharge
Lethargy and reduced energy
Reduced appetite or reluctance to eat
Sneezing
Most dogs experience mild to moderate illness and recover fully within 2 to 3 weeks with supportive care. However, some dogs develop severe complications, including pneumonia, and while most recover fully, a small number of cases can be fatal.¹² Dogs showing a very high fever, labored breathing, or worsening symptoms need prompt veterinary attention. Dogs showing a very high fever, labored breathing, or worsening symptoms need prompt veterinary attention.
It's worth noting that some dogs infected with canine influenza remain asymptomatic but can still spread the virus to other dogs.¹
How Does Dog Flu Spread?
Canine influenza spreads through:
Direct contact between dogs — playing, sniffing, nose-to-nose contact
Respiratory droplets from coughing and sneezing
Contaminated surfaces — food bowls, toys, bedding, leashes, and kennel surfaces can harbor the virus
People who handle infected dogs without washing hands or changing clothing first
The incubation period is 2 to 5 days — meaning your dog can be exposed and contagious before showing any signs of illness.² Once infected, dogs continue shedding the virus for up to 28 days,² so a dog may still be spreading the flu long after appearing to have recovered.
High-risk environments include boarding facilities, grooming salons, dog parks, doggy daycares, shelters, and dog shows — anywhere dogs spend time in close proximity.
Can Dogs Give Humans the Flu?
No. Canine influenza has not been documented to spread from dogs to humans.² Health authorities including the CDC actively monitor canine influenza for any signs of human transmission, and none has been recorded to date.
Pet parents caring for a sick dog don't need to worry about catching dog flu themselves. The recommended precautions — washing hands and changing clothes before interacting with other dogs — are about protecting other dogs, not people.
How Is Dog Flu Treated?
There is no antiviral medication specifically approved for canine influenza. Treatment is supportive care focused on keeping your dog comfortable while their immune system clears the virus:
Rest and isolation from other dogs for the duration of the contagious period — up to 28 days for H3N2; at least 7 days for H3N8¹
Hydration — encouraging water intake or intravenous fluids if the dog becomes dehydrated
Nutritional support — maintaining regular caloric intake even when appetite is low
Antibiotics — prescribed if secondary bacterial pneumonia develops; they do not treat the influenza virus itself
Anti-inflammatory medications — to manage fever and discomfort
Most dogs with mild to moderate illness recover fully at home. Dogs showing signs of pneumonia — high fever, difficulty breathing, or a worsening cough — typically need hospitalization for oxygen support, IV fluids, and closer monitoring. For a sense of what vet exams and diagnostics typically cost when your dog needs evaluation, see how much does a vet checkup cost.
Is There a Dog Flu Vaccine?
Yes. Vaccines are available for both H3N8 and H3N2, with bivalent formulations that cover both strains in a single dose. Vaccination reduces the severity and duration of illness — but does not fully prevent infection.¹
The canine influenza vaccine is classified as non-core, meaning it's recommended for dogs with meaningful exposure risk rather than all dogs. Good candidates include dogs that regularly use boarding facilities, grooming salons, dog parks, or dog shows, and those that travel to areas with known outbreaks. For a detailed breakdown of the canine influenza vaccine — schedule, formulations, and which dogs should get it — see canine influenza vaccine.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does dog flu last?
Most cases of canine influenza resolve within 2 to 3 weeks with supportive care.¹ The persistent cough can linger for 10–21 days even in dogs that are otherwise recovering well. Dogs with secondary bacterial pneumonia may take longer and often require hospitalization. Keep your dog away from other dogs throughout recovery — even after they seem better — to avoid spreading the virus.
Can my dog give me the flu?
No. Canine influenza has not been documented to spread from dogs to humans, and health authorities including the CDC monitor closely for any such risk.² You should still wash your hands after handling a sick dog and change clothes before being around other dogs — that protects other pets, not yourself. If you're sick and wondering whether your dog is the source, the answer is no — human and canine influenza are different strains.
Should I take my dog to the vet for the flu?
Yes, for anything beyond very mild symptoms. A vet visit confirms the diagnosis, rules out other respiratory conditions, and determines whether antibiotics or other medications are needed. Go immediately if your dog has a high fever, labored breathing, or symptoms that are worsening after several days — these can indicate pneumonia. Pet insurance can help cover the cost of diagnosis and treatment for newly developed conditions; see pre-existing conditions and pet insurance to understand how enrollment timing affects coverage.
Can a vaccinated dog still catch the flu?
Yes. The canine influenza vaccine reduces severity and duration of illness but doesn't guarantee your dog won't get infected.¹ Vaccinated dogs exposed to CIV typically experience a milder course and are less likely to develop serious complications like pneumonia. Think of it similarly to human flu shots — vaccination meaningfully lowers risk and severity even when it doesn't prevent infection entirely. Dogs with high exposure risk benefit most.
The right pet insurance plan should help support your pet through both unexpected accidents and health needs. Understanding what's included in your policy can help you choose coverage that fits your pet's lifestyle.
Spot Pet Insurance offers accident and illness coverage to help reimburse eligible costs related to covered injuries, illnesses, diagnostics, and treatment. Pet parents can also add optional preventive care coverage for routine services like annual exams, dental cleanings, and certain vaccines. Learn more about what pet insurance covers or get a free quote.
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American Veterinary Medical Association. “Canine Influenza." *AVMA*, Day Month Year, URL.
VCA Animal Hospitals*, Day Month Year, URL. "Canine Influenza." *VCA
