Coughing in dogs does not always have to be caused by an illness. Because the cough itself is nothing but a physical protective reflex to clear the animal’s airways, nevertheless, it is essential to clarify possible causes.
A dog’s cough should be evaluated and treated by a veterinarian if severe or persistent. Tell him exactly what symptoms of illness you have observed in your dog: How often, how badly and how long does your dog cough? What time of day does the cough occur and have other symptoms such as tiredness, restlessness or shortness of breath?
It is also crucial whether your dog coughs on certain occasions. Also, pay attention to whether it is a dry cough or whether your animal secretes a slimy secretion when coughing.
Allergies as causes of cough in dogs
If the dog only coughs occasionally and mainly indoors, allergies or the room air that is too dry could trigger. The veterinarian decides whether this type of cough in the dog needs treatment or whether it is sufficient if you use a humidifier to make the room air a little more pleasant for the four-legged friend.
Asthma also occurs in dogs and is usually triggered by an allergic reaction. The trigger for the asthmatic cough must be found as quickly as possible to improve the symptoms.
Cough is a symptom of disease in dogs
In addition, diseases and infections are among the most common causes of coughing in dogs. It could be that your four-legged friend has contracted bronchitis or is dealing with another bacterial, viral or fungal infection. Distemper and kennel cough are dangerous diseases that should be urgently ruled out as the cause of the cough.
The vet may also check your dog for worms if they suspect it, as heartworm or lungworm can be responsible for coughing. After a precise diagnosis, he will determine a treatment option to help your dog as quickly as possible.
Different forms of cough in dogs
The type of cough in the dog can give both the owner and the doctor information about possible causes. It is therefore essential that you listen carefully. For example, a dry cough is hard, harsh and often causes pain for your loved one. He doesn’t secrete mucus, but he may start gagging. The following factors can be identified as potential causes:
● Early stages of airway inflammation, e.g. B. Bronchitis
● Sore throat, larynx or trachea
● Asthma
● heart disease
● Foreign bodies in the airways
● Kennel cough accompanied by fever and nasal discharge
● Tracheal collapse: coughing fits occur when excited/joyed
A wet cough in dogs can not only be recognized by the typical sputum. You also usually hear a rattling, gurgling sound when you breathe. Again, your pet may start gagging again and again. Mucus or other liquid is often vomited. The following causes are possible:
● pneumonia
● Heart disease that has caused pulmonary oedema
● Left ventricular failure (the cough usually occurs at night or in the morning)
Is a dog cough related to breeding?
While it cannot be said across the board that coughing in dogs is linked to a specific breed, experience has shown that some are more likely to be affected by respiratory diseases than others. Pugs and French bulldogs are just two examples where breeding plays a significant role in respiratory health. Their flat noses encourage infections or foreign bodies’ blockage of the airways.
Large, heavy breeds such as boxers, Irish wolfhounds, Doberman pinschers, mastiffs, St. Bernards and Hovawarts often suffer from an enlarged heart with associated heart failure from 5 years. This can cause fluid build-up in the lungs, which sometimes manifests itself as a violent cough. However, this disease also occurs in smaller breeds such as Cocker Spaniels or Foxhounds.
