What should I do if my dog catches a cold?
Expert Answer
A dog cold is a symptom complex – chills, contagion and other viral infections can all cause cold-like signs. Many underlying causes produce respiratory symptoms, so you should treat based on exam findings and the actual cause. For a common cold, a vet-formulated canine cold medicine plus a veterinary antibiotic (such as doxycycline tablets) to prevent secondary infection is often recommended; keep the dog warm and monitor whether the condition worsens, while supporting nutrition.
However, if your dog is not fully vaccinated and the cold symptoms get worse – with loss of appetite, lethargy, fever and so on – take it to a clinic promptly to rule out infectious diseases such as distemper, kennel cough and parainfluenza. Early detection and treatment matter.