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Why do dogs cough?

By HotBotUpdated: August 14, 2024

Answer

Dogs, like humans, can exhibit a cough for various reasons. Understanding the underlying cause of a dog's cough is crucial for ensuring their health and well-being. This comprehensive guide will explore the common and less common causes of canine coughing, diagnostic methods, and potential treatments.

Common Causes of Coughing in Dogs

Infectious Respiratory Diseases

One of the most prevalent reasons dogs cough is due to infectious respiratory diseases. These can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi.

Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex (CIRDC): Also known as kennel cough, this condition is highly contagious and commonly affects dogs in close quarters, such as kennels or dog parks. Bordetella bronchiseptica is a primary bacterial cause, but viruses like canine parainfluenza and canine adenovirus can also contribute.
Canine Influenza: Similar to the human flu, canine influenza is caused by specific strains of the influenza virus. Symptoms include coughing, sneezing, and nasal discharge.
Fungal Infections: Fungal diseases such as blastomycosis and histoplasmosis can also lead to coughing. These infections typically occur in certain geographic areas.

Allergic Reactions

Dogs can suffer from allergies that lead to coughing. These allergies can be environmental, such as pollen or dust mites, or due to food sensitivities.

Seasonal Allergies: Just like humans, dogs can be allergic to seasonal pollen, which can cause coughing, sneezing, and itchy skin.
Household Allergens: Dust mites, mold, and cigarette smoke are common household allergens that can irritate a dog's respiratory system.

Heart Disease

Heart disease is another significant cause of coughing in dogs, particularly in older dogs or certain breeds prone to heart conditions.

Mitral Valve Disease: This condition affects the heart's mitral valve, causing it to leak. As the disease progresses, it can lead to congestive heart failure, which often presents with a persistent cough.
Heartworm Disease: Transmitted by mosquitoes, heartworm disease can severely damage the heart and lungs, leading to coughing, lethargy, and difficulty breathing.

Tracheal Collapse

Tracheal collapse is a common condition in small breed dogs like Pomeranians, Yorkies, and Chihuahuas. This condition occurs when the tracheal rings weaken and collapse, leading to a honking cough, especially during excitement or exertion.

Foreign Objects

Dogs are curious creatures and may inhale or swallow foreign objects, such as grass, seeds, or small toys. These objects can become lodged in the throat or trachea, causing irritation and coughing as the body attempts to expel them.

Chronic Bronchitis

Chronic bronchitis in dogs, also known as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), is characterized by inflammation of the airways. This condition leads to persistent coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. It is often seen in middle-aged to older dogs.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

GERD can affect dogs just as it does humans. Acid reflux irritates the esophagus and throat, causing a chronic cough. Dogs with GERD may also exhibit symptoms like regurgitation, drooling, and difficulty swallowing.

Parasitic Infections

Parasitic infections can also cause coughing in dogs. One notable example is lungworm, a parasite that resides in the lungs and airways. Symptoms include coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing.

Diagnostic Methods

Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment. Veterinarians employ various diagnostic methods to identify the cause of a dog's cough.

Physical Examination: A thorough physical exam, including listening to the lungs and heart, can provide initial clues.
Radiographs (X-rays): X-rays of the chest can reveal abnormalities in the lungs, heart, and trachea.
Blood Tests: Blood tests can help identify infections, heartworm disease, and other systemic conditions.
Endoscopy: This procedure involves inserting a small camera into the airways to visualize the trachea and bronchi directly.
Bronchoalveolar Lavage (BAL): BAL involves flushing the airways with a saline solution and collecting the fluid for analysis. This can help diagnose infections and inflammatory conditions.

Treatment Options

Treatment for a dog's cough depends on the underlying cause. Here are some common treatment approaches:

Antibiotics: Bacterial infections like kennel cough or pneumonia may require antibiotics.
Antiviral Medications: In cases of viral infections, supportive care and antiviral medications may be necessary.
Anti-inflammatory Drugs: Conditions like chronic bronchitis often require anti-inflammatory medications to reduce airway inflammation.
Heart Medications: Dogs with heart disease may need medications to manage heart function and reduce fluid buildup.
Antihistamines: Allergic reactions may respond to antihistamines or other allergy medications.
Surgery: In cases of tracheal collapse or foreign object removal, surgery may be required.

Prevention and Management

Preventing coughing in dogs involves a combination of vaccination, regular veterinary care, and environmental management.

Vaccinations: Keeping vaccines up to date can prevent diseases like kennel cough and canine influenza.
Heartworm Prevention: Regular heartworm prevention is crucial, especially in areas where heartworm is prevalent.
Environmental Control: Minimizing exposure to allergens and irritants can help reduce coughing due to environmental factors.
Regular Checkups: Routine veterinary visits can catch potential issues early and ensure timely treatment.

Understanding the Nuances of Canine Coughing

Dogs exhibit coughing behavior for an array of reasons, each requiring specific attention and care. While common causes like infectious diseases and allergies are well-known, more obscure conditions like GERD or chronic bronchitis also play a significant role in canine health. By grasping the multifaceted nature of why dogs cough, pet owners can take proactive steps to ensure their furry companions lead healthier, happier lives.