Dogs can cough for a variety of reasons, ranging from the relatively harmless to the more serious.
Coughing is an important symptom that pet owners should never ignore, as it can be indicative of a larger underlying issue.
Below, we will discuss the most common causes of coughing in dogs, how to diagnose the underlying cause, and treatment options.
- Kennel Cough Kennel cough is the most common cause of coughing in dogs.
It is a contagious respiratory disease that is caused by a number of bacteria and viruses, including the Bordetella bronchiseptica bacteria. It is common in dogs that are around other dogs in places like kennels, groomers, or daycare facilities.
It is spread through contact with other infected dogs, and through contact with contaminated objects like toys, bedding, and food bowls.
Signs of kennel cough include a harsh, dry, hacking cough, sneezing, and a runny nose. Dogs with kennel cough may also have a decreased appetite and a fever.
Diagnosis is usually done through physical examination and by ruling out other causes of coughing. Treatment for kennel cough usually involves a course of antibiotics, and in some cases, a cough suppressant.
In severe cases, an anti-inflammatory medication may be prescribed for a few days.
- Heart Disease Heart disease is one of the most common causes of coughing in dogs.
It can be caused by a number of conditions, including congestive heart failure, valve disease, and cardiomyopathy.
The coughing that is associated with heart disease is usually worse at night, and is often accompanied by a blue or greyish color to the gums.
Diagnosis of heart disease can be done through a physical examination and with the aid of imaging, like an echocardiogram or X-ray.
Treatment varies depending on the underlying cause, but may include medications to help improve the heart’s function and reduce the amount of fluid in the lungs.
- Allergies Allergies are a common cause of coughing in dogs. Allergies can be caused by a number of things, including environmental irritants like pollen, mold, and dust, or food allergies to certain ingredients in the dog’s diet.
Allergies can cause a range of coughing symptoms, from a dry, hacking cough to a wet, productive cough.
Diagnosis of allergies is usually done through a physical examination and may be supplemented with blood tests and skin tests.
Treatment usually involves avoiding the allergen, as well as medications to help reduce the coughing symptoms and improve the dog’s quality of life.
- Infectious Tracheobronchitis Infectious tracheobronchitis, also known as “kennel cough” is another common cause of coughing in dogs.
It is caused by a virus, and is highly contagious, often spread through contact with other infected dogs or contaminated objects.
It can cause a dry, hacking cough, sneezing, and a runny nose. Diagnosis of infectious tracheobronchitis is usually done through physical examination and ruling out other causes of coughing.
Treatment usually involves a course of antibiotics, and in some cases, a cough suppressant.
- Parasites Parasites are another potential cause of coughing in dogs. They can be caused by a number of parasites, including lungworms, heartworms, and whipworms.
Parasites can cause a range of coughing symptoms, from a dry, hacking cough to a wet, productive cough.
Diagnosis of parasites is usually done through a physical examination and may be supplemented with tests like a fecal exam and a blood test.
Treatment usually involves deworming medications, as well as avoiding the source of the parasite.
- Lung Disease Lung disease can also be a cause of coughing in dogs. It can be caused by a number of conditions, including pneumonia and congestive heart failure.
It can cause a dry, hacking cough, and may be accompanied by difficulty breathing and a bluish discoloration to the gums.
Diagnosis of lung disease is usually done through physical examination and may be supplemented with imaging tests like X-rays and CT scans.
Treatment usually involves antibiotics and medications to reduce inflammation and improve the dog’s breathing.
- Cancer Cancer can also be a cause of coughing in dogs. It can cause a range of coughing symptoms, from a dry, hacking cough to a wet, productive cough.
It can also be accompanied by difficulty breathing, weight loss, and a bluish discoloration to the gums.
Diagnosis of cancer is usually done through physical examination and may be supplemented with imaging tests like X-rays and CT scans.
Treatment usually involves chemotherapy and/or radiation, depending on the type and severity of the cancer.
In conclusion, there are a variety of causes of coughing in dogs, ranging from the relatively harmless to the more serious. It is important to take your dog to the veterinarian if they are exhibiting any signs of coughing, as it can be indicative of a larger underlying issue. The veterinarian will be able to diagnose the underlying cause and provide the necessary treatment options.
