Can dogs get COVID-19?

This is a question that has been asked by pet owners around the world since the outbreak of the novel coronavirus pandemic. The short answer is yes, dogs can contract COVID-19, but it is rare and the majority of dogs that have contracted the virus have shown mild or no symptoms.

It was initially believed that dogs were not susceptible to the virus due to the fact that the virus primarily spreads through human-to-human contact. However, recent studies have shown that dogs can contract COVID-19 from infected humans or other animals. This is because the virus is able to survive on surfaces and objects, such as food bowls and toys, which can then be picked up by dogs.（dog beds）

While dogs can contract the virus, it is important to note that they are not as susceptible as humans. This is because the virus primarily spreads through the respiratory system, and dogs have a different respiratory system than humans. As a result, most dogs that have contracted COVID-19 have shown only mild or no symptoms at all.

In fact, some studies have shown that dogs may even play a role in reducing the spread of the virus. This is because dogs have a keen sense of smell and can be trained to detect the presence of COVID-19 in humans. This is done by training the dogs to recognize the scent of the virus on human skin, clothing, and other objects.

However, it is important to take precautions to protect both humans and their pets from COVID-19. This includes washing hands regularly, avoiding close contact with others, and wearing a mask when in public. It is also important to keep dogs away from people who are sick, and to clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces in the home.

In conclusion, while dogs can contract COVID-19, it is rare and the majority of dogs show only mild or no symptoms. It is important to take precautions to protect both humans and their pets from the virus, but dogs may also play a role in reducing the spread of COVID-19.