The study investigated the presence of antibodies to H5 and N1 subtypes of influenza A viruses in hunting dogs in Washington, USA. Among 194 dogs that engaged in bird hunting or training, 4 (2%) tested positive for antibodies to H5 and N1. These dogs had high levels of exposure to waterfowl, which are known reservoirs for H5N1 influenza viruses. The study found that while dogs can be infected with H5N1, the clinical outcomes varied, and the virus appeared to be poorly adapted to dogs. The low seroprevalence, lack of reported disease in seropositive dogs, and absence of evidence for dog-to-dog transmission suggest that the H5N1 strains circulating in North America during 2022-2023 were not well adapted to dogs. The findings highlight the importance of effective risk communication with hunting dog owners and the potential value of monitoring hunting dogs for influenza A to reduce the risk of spillover to dogs.The study investigated the presence of antibodies to H5 and N1 subtypes of influenza A viruses in hunting dogs in Washington, USA. Among 194 dogs that engaged in bird hunting or training, 4 (2%) tested positive for antibodies to H5 and N1. These dogs had high levels of exposure to waterfowl, which are known reservoirs for H5N1 influenza viruses. The study found that while dogs can be infected with H5N1, the clinical outcomes varied, and the virus appeared to be poorly adapted to dogs. The low seroprevalence, lack of reported disease in seropositive dogs, and absence of evidence for dog-to-dog transmission suggest that the H5N1 strains circulating in North America during 2022-2023 were not well adapted to dogs. The findings highlight the importance of effective risk communication with hunting dog owners and the potential value of monitoring hunting dogs for influenza A to reduce the risk of spillover to dogs.