Common cold

What is a cold?

Runny nose is an inflammation of the mucous membranes in the nose and paranasal sinuses. This leads to increased secretion of mucus, which escapes from the nose or is swallowed by the dog. Snuffles can be acute or chronic and cause various symptoms.

What are the symptoms of snuffles in dogs?

The most common signs of snuffles in dogs are

• Sneezing
• Nasal discharge
• coughing
• Difficulty breathing
• fever
• loss of appetite
• fatigue

The symptoms can vary depending on the cause and severity of the cold. Some dogs only have a mild cold that subsides after a few days, while others suffer from a severe cold that can lead to complications such as pneumonia or nosebleeds.

What are the causes of snuffles in dogs?

Snuffles in dogs can have various causes, which can usually be divided into two categories: infectious and non-infectious.

Infectious snuffles

Infectious rhinitis is caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi or parasites that infect the nasal mucosa. The most common pathogens are:

• Canine parainfluenza virus, which is also part of the kennel cough complex
• Canine adenovirus type 2, which is also part of kennel cough
• Canine herpesvirus, which is particularly dangerous for puppies
• Canine coronavirus, which can cause diarrhea as well as sniffles
• Canine influenza virus, which causes highly contagious flu
• Bordetella bronchiseptica, a bacterium that also causes kennel cough
• Mycoplasma, chlamydia or streptococci, which can cause bacterial infections
• Aspergillus or Cryptococcus, which can cause fungal infections
• Nasal mites or leishmaniasis, which can cause parasitic infections

Infectious rhinitis is usually contagious and can be transmitted through direct contact with sick dogs or through shared objects such as bowls or toys. Young, old or immunocompromised dogs are particularly at risk.

Non-infectious snuffles

Non-infectious rhinitis is triggered by other factors that irritate or damage the nasal mucosa. The most common triggers are

• Allergies to pollen, dust, mold or other substances
• Foreign bodies such as awns, seeds or splinters that get into the nose
• Injuries to the nose caused by bumps, bites or operations
• Tumors or polyps in the nose or paranasal sinuses
• Dental problems such as abscesses or root infections that can spread to the nose
• Anatomical features such as a nose that is too narrow or a soft palate that is too long in short-nosed breeds

Non-infectious rhinitis is usually not contagious and can become chronic depending on the cause.

How is rhinitis treated in dogs?

The treatment of snuffles in dogs depends on the cause and severity of the disease. In many cases, symptomatic therapy is sufficient, which may include the following measures:

• Rest and rest for the dog
• Adequate fluid intake
• Cleaning the nose with a damp cloth or saline solution
• Use of a humidifier or inhalation with chamomile or eucalyptus
• Administration of mucolytics or nasal drops after consultation with the vet
• Administration of painkillers or antipyretics after consultation with the vet

If the runny nose is caused by an infection, antibiotic, antiviral, antifungal or antiparasitic therapy may be necessary. A swab or culture of the nasal secretions should always be carried out to identify the pathogen and select the appropriate medication.

If the runny nose is caused by a foreign body, tumor, polyp or dental problem, surgical removal or dental treatment may be necessary.

When should you take a dog with a cold to the vet?

A mild cold in dogs is usually nothing to worry about and often heals on its own. However, you should always look out for the following warning signs, which may indicate a severe or complicated cold:

• Persistent or recurring sniffles that last longer than a week
• Nasal discharge that is purulent, bloody or foul-smelling
• Shortness of breath, panting or rales in the lungs
• High fever above 39°C
• Weight loss or emaciation
• Signs of pain or discomfort
• Behavioral changes such as apathy, aggression or depression

If you notice one or more of these symptoms in your dog, you should consult a vet immediately to clarify the cause and initiate appropriate treatment.

How can snuffles in dogs be prevented?

Snuffles in dogs cannot always be prevented, but there are a few precautions you can take to reduce the risk. These include:

• Regular vaccinations against the most common pathogens of infectious rhinitis such as parainfluenza, adenovirus and bordetella
• Avoiding contact with sick dogs or their objects
• Hygienic keeping and care of the dog and its environment
• Protection from allergens such as pollen, dust or mold
• Take care when walking or playing outdoors to avoid foreign bodies in the nose
• Control the dog's weight and diet to strengthen the immune system
• Regular check-ups at the vet to detect and treat possible illnesses at an early stage