Dogs can show cold and flu-like symptoms during cold and damp seasons. These include a runny nose, sneezing, eye discharge, coughing, fever, shallow, noisy and laboured breathing due to congestion as well as a lack of energy and appetite.^1,2

As long as your four-legged friend only shows mild symptoms, but still has an appetite and is behaving normally, you can help them with simple measures to speed up their recovery. Dry air can irritate the airways, so set up a humidifier. The vapour can help to alleviate breathing difficulties. Clean the areas around the eyes and nose carefully with a lukewarm, damp cloth and allow your dog plenty of rest. Offer your four-legged friend plenty of fresh water and ensure they drink a lot. A balanced diet helps to strengthen the immune system (more details below). Keep your dog warm and away from other four-legged friends so that they don’t become infected.^3,4,5 Definitely don’t smoke in the dog's presence and avoid the use of things like room sprays. Your four-legged patient should feel better again in one to two weeks.

If the above-mentioned symptoms worsen and severe breathing problems, bloody sputum when coughing, nosebleeds, reluctance to eat or drink and lethargic behaviour occur, you must have your dog examined by a veterinarian.^6,7 They can offer appropriate treatment options based on the results of the examination.

Bear in mind that the season of runny noses, watery eyes and coughs may be approaching for your dog. Be sure to protect them as much as you can. If they do fall ill, you can take simple measures to help; ask experts (e.g. vets) for advice. Observe your patient closely and do not hesitate to take them to a veterinary practice if the symptoms persist or worsen.