Can my dog catch the flu, too?
photo courtesy of www.artchickphotography.com
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
New York New York, with flu hospitalizations hitting record highs across New York City and New Jersey this winter, health officials are sounding the alarm for residents to mask up and get vaccinated. But as you reach for the tissues, you might be wondering: Can my dog catch the flu, too?
While the “human flu” and “dog flu” share a name, the risks for your four-legged friends are unique. We spoke with Dr. Katja Lang, Chief Medical Officer at Heart of Chelsea Veterinary Group, to break down what every pet owner needs to know about the current canine influenza outlook.
Can Humans Give the Flu to Dogs?
The short answer is no. If you are curled up on the couch with a fever, you don’t have to worry about passing your virus to your pup.
“There is no relationship,” explains Dr. Lang. “Human flu and dog flu are both called influenza, but a human cannot give a dog the flu, and a dog cannot give their flu to a human.”
While they are separate viruses, both are highly contagious within their own species. Just as the human flu spreads in crowded subways, the dog flu thrives in social pet settings.
The Current Outbreak: By the Numbers
According to national outbreak trackers, the H3N2 strain (the most common canine flu) is currently active in the Tri-State area. Here is how the region looks as of early 2026:
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Regional Cases: At least 45 confirmed cases have been reported recently across New Jersey, Connecticut, and Vermont.
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New York Status: While New York state conducted over 1,150 tests through mid-December, there have been zero positive cases in the city as of the latest data.
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The Risk Factor: Despite the lack of positive tests in NYC, the high number of cases in neighboring NJ and CT means the virus is “knocking on the door.”
Symptoms to Watch For
If your dog has been to a boarding facility, doggy daycare, or a crowded dog park lately, keep an eye out for these “kennel cough-like” symptoms:
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Persistent, hacking cough
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Sneezing and nasal discharge
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Lethargy (unusual tiredness)
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Loss of appetite
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Fever
How to Protect Your Pet
Since canine influenza is a “social” disease, prevention is key.
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Consult Your Vet: Ask about the canine influenza vaccine, especially if your dog is frequently around other dogs.
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Monitor Hotspots: Be cautious of environments where many dogs congregate if you hear reports of a local outbreak.
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Hygiene Matters: While the virus doesn’t jump species, it can live on surfaces. If you’ve been handling other dogs, wash your hands and change your clothes before greeting your own pet.
Quick Guide: Human Flu vs. Dog Flu
| Feature | Human Influenza | Canine Influenza (H3N2/H3N8) |
| Can humans catch it? | Yes | No |
| Can dogs catch it? | No | Yes |
| Current NYC Status | Record Highs | Low/No Active Cases |
| Prevention | Annual Flu Shot | Lifestyle-based Vaccine |
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