14 Mar Coughing in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Coughing in dogs can be concerning for pet owners. It’s well-known that dogs, like humans, can experience coughing for various reasons. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for coughing in dogs is crucial to ensuring their overall well-being.

Causes of Coughing in Dogs

• Respiratory Infections: Respiratory infections, such as bronchitis or pneumonia, are one common cause of coughing in dogs. These infections can result from viruses, bacteria, or fungi, often leading to coughing fits in affected dogs.
• Kennel Cough: If your dog has a persistent cough, it may be a sign of “kennel cough,” a common respiratory infection that can be easily treated with proper care and medication. To prevent the spread of this disease, it’s essential to be aware that it can quickly pass from dog to dog in close quarters, such as in kennels or dog parks. Minimizing contact between dogs in these settings can help keep our furry friends healthy and happy.
• Heartworm Disease: Heartworm can affect your furry friend and cause coughing spells. Mosquito bites transmit this disease and can lead to inflammation and irritation in the heart and lungs. It’s essential to watch for any symptoms and take preventative measures to ensure your dog’s health and well-being.
• Allergies: Just like humans, dogs are susceptible to allergies. Environmental factors like pollen, dust, and mold can cause allergies. Common allergic reactions in dogs include coughing, sneezing, and itching, so it’s essential to keep an eye out for these symptoms and take appropriate action if necessary.
• Tracheal Collapse: Tracheal collapse is when the trachea, or windpipe, becomes weakened and collapses, making it difficult for the dog to breathe correctly. Coughing is a common symptom of tracheal collapse in dogs, particularly when they exert themselves or become excited.

Symptoms to Look For

1. Dry Cough: One of the primary symptoms of coughing in dogs is a dry, hacking cough. This cough may persist and worsen over time, especially if left untreated.
2. Gagging: In addition to coughing, dogs with respiratory issues may experience gagging or retching, especially when trying to clear their throat or expel mucus.
3. Wheezing: Wheezing sounds during breathing can indicate that a dog’s airways are narrowed or obstructed, leading to difficulty breathing and bouts of coughing.
4. Labored Breathing: Labored or rapid breathing, known as dyspnea, often accompanies coughing in dogs with respiratory problems. This indicates that the dog is struggling to breathe efficiently.

Diagnosis and Treatment

• Veterinary Examination: If your dog coughs persistently, it is important to seek immediate care. This way, you can confidently identify and address the underlying cause.
• Diagnostic Tests: In some cases, diagnostic tests are necessary. These tests include blood work, X-rays, or ultrasound, which help the vet accurately determine the cause of the cough. These tests can help rule out potential underlying conditions and guide treatment decisions.
• Treatment Options: Treatment for coughing in dogs depends on the underlying cause. It may include medications such as antibiotics for bacterial infections, cough suppressants to alleviate symptoms, or anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce inflammation in the airways.

Home Care for Coughing in Dogs

• Rest: Rest is crucial for dogs with respiratory issues, as it allows their bodies to heal and recover. Limiting physical activity and providing a quiet, comfortable environment can help alleviate coughing symptoms.
• Humidifier Use: Using a humidifier in the dog’s environment can help moisten the airways and reduce irritation, making it easier for them to breathe comfortably.
• Proper Nutrition: A well-balanced and nutrient-rich diet is absolutely vital for supporting a dog’s immune system and overall health. Providing the right nutrients can help strengthen their respiratory health and promote faster recovery.
• Avoiding Smoke Exposure: Exposure to smoke from cigarettes or household fires can exacerbate coughing in dogs with respiratory issues. It’s crucial to keep them away from smoke-filled environments to prevent further irritation to their airways.

Prevention Tips

• Vaccinations: Keeping your dog’s vaccinations up to date, including those for respiratory infections like kennel cough, is a confident way to prevent coughing episodes and ensure your dog’s overall health.
• Regular Veterinary Check-ups: Making regular visits to the veterinarian for wellness exams and preventive care is essential. This way, you can keep your pet healthy and happy. Trust me, taking your pet to the vet for routine check-ups is an investment you won’t regret.
• Healthy Lifestyle: By ensuring a balanced diet, regular exercise, and proper grooming for your dog, you can confidently boost their immune system and minimize the risk of respiratory problems.

The Last Word

Coughing is a common symptom in dogs that can indicate various underlying health issues. The causes of coughing in dogs can range from minor infections to more severe conditions like heartworm disease or tracheal collapse. 

Allergic reactions to environmental irritants like pollen, dust, or cigarette smoke can also cause coughing in dogs. In some cases, coughing in dogs is a sign of a foreign object in the throat or airways, which requires prompt veterinary attention.

Heartworm disease, transmitted by infected mosquitoes, is a more severe cause of coughing in dogs. Tracheal collapse, a condition that affects the windpipe and causes coughing and difficulty breathing, is also a possible cause of coughing in dogs. 

Symptoms of coughing in dogs can vary depending on the underlying cause. In general, coughing can accompany other symptoms like wheezing, difficulty breathing, lethargy, and loss of appetite. If your dog is coughing persistently or showing any other concerning symptoms, it’s important to seek veterinary care immediately.

Treatment options for dog coughing depend on the underlying cause. Minor causes like kennel cough can be treated with antibiotics, while more severe conditions like heartworm disease may require more intensive treatment, such as surgery or medication. In some cases, lifestyle changes like reducing exposure to environmental irritants or changing your dog’s diet may help reduce coughing symptoms. 

As a responsible pet owner, you should know the causes, symptoms, and treatment for coughing in dogs. By taking proactive steps to ensure your furry companion receives the care they need to stay healthy and happy, you can help prevent more serious health issues down the line.