Dog Sneezing and Runny Nose with Dr. Jeff Werber

Is It Normal For My Dog To Have A Runny Nose Or Nasal Discharge?

Typically, it is not normal. It could be something very minor or could be something much more serious, depending on many, many factors. Most dogs might have a little drip in the morning cold weather, just as we do. But with a more persistent nasal discharge, there could be an underlying problem.

Is There Something That I Can Give My Dog At Home For A Runny Nose?

There are so many different reasons for runny noses and dogs. If it's bad enough to get your attention, you really should see your veterinarian.

Should I Be Concerned If My Dog Is Sneezing At Home?

Sneezing is a reaction. We have cilia, little tiny hairs in our noses, just like dogs. They also have a lot of nasal receptors – 50 times what we have, which is why they can smell anything. Because of those receptors, not only are they getting the sensory information, but they are more likely to possibly pick up something that's going to cause a sneeze. But if the sneezing becomes persistent, again, you need to see your vet.

Is There Anything I Can Give My Dog At Home For Sneezing?

You want to check with your veterinarian first, but I might recommend to one of my clients to try Benadryl. Maybe that will help. But I would be very clear, if it doesn't work, you need to come in.

How Would I Tell If A Runny Nose Or Sneezing Is Really Serious?

If the dog is otherwise 100% fine and it's a little clear, it's probably okay. But you should see your vet for the following symptoms:

• Green or yellow discharge
• Erratic sneezing
• Frequent or continuous sneezing
• Sluggishness
• Not eating

Ultimately, trust your gut and see your vet if something seems off.

Can Dogs Get A Cold Or Flu?

Yes, they can get colds and cases of the flu. They don't get a cold as we know it, but they have their version. But as far as the flu, if it's a bacterial type of infection, a respiratory infection, then medication can help. If it's viral like influenza and parrot influenza, there's not a lot we can do other than keep them very healthy and then hopefully their bodies will kick in and take care of the virus.

What Medications Would We Give A Dog For A Respiratory Infection?

A lot of the antibiotics that we would give our dog are the same antibiotics that we take. Some are different. Some are related in the same class, like enrofloxacin and ciprofloxacin, and enro works much better with dogs than cipro. Clavimox with amoxicillin are some drugs that we would use. But I don't recommend someone starting without a consult with their veterinarian.

Will It Just Go Away Or Do You Really Need To Go Into Your Vet?

If I had a dog, a patient that has a mild discharge, not green or yellow but a clear discharge, maybe an occasional sneeze, but he's running around going to the park and eating great and nothing else has changed, I might say, "Just give it a little time."

But if it starts manifesting itself in other ways or that discharge starts turning a color or they start coughing, they have a moist cough and it's obviously going deeper into the lung field, then I'm going to want to see that pet.

How Much Time Would You Allow For Symptoms To Clear Up On Their Own?

I say you give it a few days. Again, you're really watching the other aspects. As far as the dog's behavior, appetite, attitude, bathroom habits, energy, and also the discharge itself, as long as it stays clear and it's occasional and the sneezing is occasional I'm okay with waiting. But if it gets worse than that, then I'm going to want to see it.

My Dog Give Me The Cold Or Flu That They Have And Vice Versa? If I Have A Cold, Can I Give It To My Dog?

Generally, the answer is no. The dog viruses are dogs, the cat viruses are cats, and they can't pass on to each other. So I'm not worried about my dogs or my patients that might have a respiratory infection. They still get to look me in the face.

Would You Recommend Any Supplements To Help Prevent Or Treat A Cold Or Flu For Dogs?

You want to make sure their immune system is up to speed. I would say, yeah, sure, you can give some multivitamins. I'm a big fan of Coenzyme Q10 and antioxidants. But again, I would check with your veterinarian. Some vets think there is no advantage to these supplements. Then you have a guy like me who says - my feeling is if it might help but can't hurt, let's give it a shot.

CareCredit Credit Card For Dog Sneezing And Runny Noses

You can apply or use your CareCredit credit card to pay for examinations and medications at vet practices in the CareCredit network, including vet appointments if your dog has the sniffles or won't stop sneezing.* You can also use it to pay for regular wellness visits, vaccinations and emergency care.

Financing Options For Dog Sneezing And Runny Noses

While most vets accept most general-purpose credit cards, the CareCredit credit card offers promotional financing options that may not be available with most general-purpose credit cards.* The CareCredit credit card also works in conjunction with pet health insurance to pay for up-front and out-of-pocket expenses.

If you're interested in applying for the CareCredit credit card or would like to find a location in your area that accepts CareCredit, visit us at www.carecredit.com.

Meet The Experts

Dr. Jeff Werber

Dr. Werber has been practicing veterinary medicine for over 35 years. He is the founder of Century Veterinary Group in Los Angeles, California, and is the former president of the Association of Veterinary Communicators.

Author Bio

Jean Marie Bauhaus is a novelist and freelance writer who has been writing in the pet health and wellness space since 2014. She is a regular contributor to Hill's Pet and American Kennel Club, among others.

** This is not a transcript. This is a summary of the information discussed during the interview.