Why is Your Dog Coughing? Find Out the Cause!

As pet parents, hearing your beloved dog coughing can be worrying. But is it just a tickle in the throat or something more serious? While coughing in dogs may sometimes be harmless, it can also signal an underlying health issue. Moreover, it can occur due to a multitude of reasons, causing discomfort to your pet.

In this blog, we’ll discuss the various causes of cough in dogs, symptoms to watch for, and when you should seek the vet’s help. We’ll also explore the diagnosis and treatment to equip you with the right information to assist your pet better.

We’re jumping right into it!

Common Causes of Coughing in Dogs

In this segment, we’ll discuss the various reasons that may cause coughing in your dog:

Pulling on the lead

When a dog pulls hard against their lead, it puts pressure on their windpipe. This can cause irritation and often result in a short, sharp cough. Using a harness instead of a lead can help prevent damage to the throat and reduce coughing.

Infections

Coughing in dogs can also manifest due to respiratory infections that impact the airway from the upper respiratory tract to the lungs. Two of the commonly observed respiratory infections are kennel cough and pneumonia. Kennel cough is contagious in nature and produces a dry, hacking cough, which often produces a honking sound. Pneumonia, on the other hand, may cause a wet, phlegmy coughing along with fever and lethargy.

Allergies

Dogs are sensitive to a number of substances in the environment called allergens, such as pollen, dust, mould, cleaning products, etc. Coming in contact with these allergens can cause all sorts of allergies that lead to coughing in dogs. These allergies are often accompanied by sneezing, watery eyes, or itchy skin.

Chronic Bronchitis

Chronic bronchitis is a long-term condition that causes inflammation in the airways and the production of mucus, leading to persistent coughing. While the condition can’t be cured, the treatment focuses on managing the inflammatory response and preventing further damage.

Heart Disease

Coughing in dogs can also indicate an issue with the heart, as persistent coughing is a common symptom of heart disease. Dogs may show signs of fatigue, fainting, difficulty breathing, and a cough that worsens at night or after activity. Addressing the issues early can provide relief and improve their quality of life.

Collapsing Trachea

This occurs in dogs when the cartilage rings of the trachea weaken and partially collapse, making it difficult to breathe. Leaving a narrow passageway, it produces a distinguished “goose honk” cough. Small breeds like Chihuahuas, Yorkies, and Pomeranians are more prone to this condition.

Pulmonary Hypertension

High blood pressure in the lungs reduces the flow of blood and oxygen and causes coughing, fainting, or exercise intolerance. It is often caused by conditions like heartworm disease or chronic lung issues.

Internal Worms

Heartworms and lungworms are internal parasites that live inside the lungs or heart and damage the tissues, leading to chronic coughing. If left untreated, they can cause severe damage to the organs and can prove to be fatal.

Reverse Sneezing

Common in small and flat-faced dogs, reverse sneezing is a sudden, snorting sound that occurs when dogs rapidly inhale through their nose. It may look like coughing and is often harmless and typically resolves on its own.

Foreign Objects Stuck in the Throat

Dogs are naturally curious eaters, and anything from sticks, toys, or food particles can get lodged in their throats. They may cough in an attempt to expel the object. However, if the coughing is persistent, it may indicate choking, which requires prompt veterinary attention.

Symptoms to Watch for

Along with coughing, you need to look out for the following signs to get the help your pet needs:

• Difficulty breathing or wheezing
• Lethargy and reduced activity
• Diarrhoea or persistent vomiting
• Lack of appetite
• Coughing up blood
• Green or yellow nasal/eye discharge
• Change in facial symmetry
• Change in bark tone
• Weight loss
• Whistling sound when breathing

When to Seek a Vet’s Help for Your Dog’s Cough?

The following are some instances that highlight the need for veterinary care:

• If your dog keeps coughing persistently and it’s getting worse.
• If your dog is breathing rapidly, struggling to inhale, or is breathing at a fast rate.
• If you see them coughing up blood.
• If they seem unwell, stressed, or have lost their appetite.
• If the cough is accompanied by fainting or collapse.

What Does Diagnosing Cough in Dogs Involve?

Initially, the vet will enquire about your dog’s symptoms, travel history, health history, when it started, and the frequency of coughing.

Plus, they will do a physical examination, which involves listening to the lungs and heart and checking the throat. However, for proper diagnosis, they may recommend a combination of the following tests:

• Blood work
• Urinalysis
• Faecal examination
• Chest X-rays
• Echocardiography (ultrasound of the heart)
• Examination of the fluid samples
• Measurement of blood pressure
• Electrocardiogram (ECG)
• Tests to confirm infections due to viruses, fungi, or bacteria

Treatment of Cough in Dogs

Essentially, the treatment of cough in dogs depends on the condition diagnosed. The vet with the diagnosis will narrow down to the underlying cause and design a treatment plan accordingly. This plan may involve antibiotics for bacterial infections, cough suppressants for relief, dewormers for worms, or anti-inflammatory treatments.

While mild to moderate coughing issues can be addressed with optimal care, severe cases or other health conditions may require hospitalisation. Also, never give your dog cough syrups or medication meant for humans, and always consult your vet before using any treatment or home remedy.

Parting Words

Your dog’s cough can range from harmless to life-threatening. By understanding the causes and watching for warning signs, you can act quickly to protect your pet’s health. And always remember to consult your vet in case of any doubt because every precaution you take ensures your dog’s wellbeing.