Coughing in Dogs

Coughing in dogs can be concerning for pet owners. Just like humans, dogs can develop a cough for various reasons, and it's essential to understand the potential causes, symptoms, and when to seek veterinary assistance. In this article, we will explore common causes of coughing in dogs, the different types of coughs, and when it's time to consult a veterinarian for your furry companion's well-being.

What Does a Dog Cough Sound Like?

A dog's cough can sound different depending on the underlying cause of the cough.  Here are some descriptions of what a dog's cough might sound like for different causes:

• Dry, Hacking Cough: This type of cough is often associated with kennel cough or infectious tracheobronchitis. It sounds like a series of dry, harsh, and repetitive coughs, similar to a honking goose. It may be more pronounced when the dog is excited or after physical activity.
• Wet, Gurgling Cough: A wet or moist cough can be a sign of respiratory congestion, such as pneumonia or fluid accumulation in the lungs. It may sound like the dog is trying to clear mucus or phlegm from its throat and can be accompanied by wheezing or labored breathing.
• Coughing Fits: Some dogs may have intermittent coughing fits, which can be associated with conditions like collapsing trachea or heart disease. These fits can vary in intensity and sound, ranging from a high-pitched, honking cough to a deep, throaty cough.
• Reverse Sneezing: Sometimes, what appears to be coughing in dogs is actually a phenomenon called "reverse sneezing." It sounds like a series of rapid, forced inhalations through the nose and is often mistaken for coughing. It is usually harmless and can be triggered by excitement, allergies, or irritants.
• Deep, Gagging Cough: If a dog has something lodged in its throat or esophagus, it may produce a deep, gagging cough as it tries to dislodge the foreign object.

Why is My Dog Coughing?

1. Respiratory Infections

Dogs can develop respiratory infections caused by various pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites. These infections can affect different parts of the respiratory system, leading to a range of coughing symptoms and other respiratory issues. 

• Viral Infections: Canine influenza (dog flu) and kennel cough (infectious tracheobronchitis) are examples of viral respiratory infections in dogs. These infections often lead to a dry, hacking cough, as well as other symptoms such as nasal discharge, sneezing, and fever.
• Bacterial Infections: Bordetella bronchiseptica is a common bacterium that can cause kennel cough in dogs. Bacterial respiratory infections can result in similar symptoms as viral infections, including coughing, nasal discharge, and sometimes a fever. Antibiotics may be prescribed to treat bacterial infections.
• Fungal Infections: Fungal infections of the respiratory system in dogs are less common but can occur. One example is Aspergillus spp. infection, which can lead to a range of respiratory symptoms, including coughing. Treatment typically involves antifungal medications.
• Parasitic Infections: Heartworm disease is an example of a parasitic infection that can affect a dog's respiratory system. Adult heartworms can reside in the heart and pulmonary arteries, leading to coughing, difficulty breathing, and other symptoms. Preventative measures and treatment are available for heartworm disease.
• Mixed Infections: Some respiratory infections in dogs can involve a combination of pathogens, affecting different parts of the respiratory tract. This is referred to as bronchopneumonia, where both the bronchi and the lung tissue become inflamed.

2. Allergies

Allergies to various environmental factors, including pollen, dust mites, molds, and other allergens, can lead to coughing in dogs. When a dog is exposed to allergens that irritate their respiratory system, it can trigger an allergic response, which may manifest as coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, or other respiratory symptoms.

• Pollen Allergies (Hay Fever): Dogs, like humans, can be allergic to pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds. When pollen counts are high, allergic dogs may experience coughing, sneezing, itching, and watery eyes.
• Dust Mite Allergies: Dust mites are tiny arachnids that thrive in household dust. Dogs with dust mite allergies can experience respiratory symptoms like coughing when exposed to dust mites in their environment.
• Mold Allergies: Mold spores can be found in damp or moldy environments. Dogs sensitive to mold can develop respiratory symptoms, including coughing if they come into contact with mold spores.
• Other Environmental Allergens: Dogs can also be allergic to other environmental factors, such as certain grasses, weeds, or outdoor molds. In addition to coughing, these allergies may cause skin problems, gastrointestinal issues, or other allergic reactions.

3. Chronic Bronchitis

Chronic bronchitis in dogs is characterized by long-term inflammation of the airways, particularly the bronchi, and bronchioles, which are the smaller air passages in the lungs. This chronic inflammation can result in several respiratory symptoms, with a persistent cough being the most common and prominent sign.
The cough associated with chronic bronchitis is often dry and hacking initially but can become moist as the condition progresses. Dogs may cough more frequently, especially when they are active or excited.

It's important to note that chronic bronchitis in dogs is typically a progressive condition and can be associated with other respiratory issues. It may be caused by a combination of factors, including environmental irritants, allergies, or genetics. Diagnosis is made through a thorough examination by a veterinarian, which may also include X-rays, bronchoscopy, or other tests to rule out other possible causes of the symptoms.

4. Heart Disease

Congestive heart failure (CHF) is a common cause of coughing in dogs, especially in cases where the condition has progressed. CHF occurs when the heart is no longer able to pump blood effectively, leading to a backup of blood and fluid in the lungs and other parts of the body. This fluid buildup in the lungs, known as pulmonary edema, can result in a moist or productive cough.

The cough associated with heart disease and CHF is often described as a "cardiac cough." It tends to be more pronounced when the dog is lying down or at night, as the fluid in the lungs redistributes with changes in position. Other signs of CHF in dogs can include labored breathing, exercise intolerance, lethargy, and in severe cases, cyanosis (bluish discoloration of the mucous membranes due to a lack of oxygen).

5. Collapsing Trachea

Tracheal collapse is a condition that can affect certain small dog breeds, and it occurs when the cartilage rings in the trachea (the windpipe) weaken and flatten over time. This weakening and collapsing of the tracheal rings can lead to various respiratory symptoms, including a distinctive honking or goose-like cough. This cough is often referred to as a "goose honk" cough and is a common symptom of tracheal collapse.

The cough associated with tracheal collapse is typically more pronounced when the dog is excited, anxious, or pulling on a leash. These actions can put additional stress on the weakened trachea, leading to coughing episodes. In some cases, tracheal collapse can also cause other respiratory signs, such as difficulty breathing, noisy breathing, and exercise intolerance.

Tracheal collapse is more commonly seen in small and toy dog breeds, including but not limited to:

• Yorkshire Terriers
• Pomeranians
• Chihuahuas
• Toy Poodles
• Shih Tzus
• Maltese

6. Foreign Objects

Yes, if a dog ingests or inhales a foreign object, it can become lodged in the throat or airway, leading to coughing and gagging as the dog tries to dislodge the object. This is a common occurrence, especially in curious or playful dogs that may chew on or swallow objects they shouldn't. The foreign object can obstruct the airway partially or completely, causing irritation and coughing as the dog attempts to clear the obstruction.

A veterinarian can perform a physical examination and may use diagnostic tools like X-rays to locate and assess the object's position. Depending on the object's location and size, the vet will determine the best course of action, which may involve removal through endoscopy, surgery, or other appropriate methods.

7. Reverse Sneezing

"Reverse sneezing" is a phenomenon in dogs that can often be mistaken for coughing, as it involves rapid and forced inhalations through the nose, often accompanied by snorting or snuffling sounds. While not a true cough, it is a common occurrence in many dogs.

Reverse sneezing typically occurs when something irritates the back of a dog's nasal passages or throat. The causes can include postnasal drainage, foreign material, inflammation, or even parasites. Dogs may exhibit reverse sneezing in response to various triggers, such as allergies, environmental irritants, excitement, or changes in temperature.

It's important for dog owners to differentiate between reverse sneezing and actual coughing, as the underlying causes and appropriate responses can be different. Reverse sneezing episodes are usually brief and often resolve on their own without the need for medical intervention.

8. Tumors

Although less common, tumors in the respiratory system or chest can lead to coughing as they put pressure on surrounding structures.

9. Laryngeal paralysis

Laryngeal paralysis is a medical condition that affects dogs and involves the inability to fully open the passageway into their windpipe (larynx) due to weakness of the nerves that control the surrounding muscles. This condition can lead to a range of symptoms, including coughing, noisy breathing, and shortness of breath. 

Laryngeal paralysis is more commonly seen in certain breeds, including Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and Bouvier des Flandres, among others. The condition can be congenital (present from birth) or acquired (developed later in life). It's often associated with aging in some breeds.

Treatment options for laryngeal paralysis may include medical management, such as weight management, environmental modifications (avoiding excessive heat or excitement), and sometimes medications to reduce inflammation or anxiety. In severe cases, surgical interventions like laryngeal tieback or unilateral arytenoid lateralization may be recommended to improve airflow and alleviate symptoms.

10. Aspiration Pneumonia

Aspiration pneumonia is a condition that occurs when foreign material, such as food, water, regurgitated matter, or vomit, is inhaled into the lungs instead of going into the stomach. When these materials enter the airways, they can introduce bacteria and other contaminants into the lungs, leading to infection and inflammation. 

Preventing aspiration pneumonia in dogs involves managing underlying conditions that increase the risk, ensuring the dog's feeding and drinking environment is safe, and taking precautions when a dog is under anesthesia.

Home Remedy for Dog Cough

While home remedies can sometimes provide relief for a dog's cough, it's important to remember that coughing can be a symptom of various underlying health issues, and the underlying cause should be addressed. Here are some home remedies that may help soothe a dog's cough, but they should not replace professional veterinary care:

• Humidifier or Steam: Increasing the humidity in the room where your dog spends most of its time can help alleviate coughing, especially if the cough is dry and hacking. You can use a humidifier or create a steamy environment in the bathroom by running a hot shower and allowing your dog to breathe in the moist air for a few minutes.
• Honey: Honey has natural antibacterial and soothing properties. You can give your dog a small amount of honey (about half a teaspoon for a medium-sized dog) by mixing it with their food or allowing them to lick it off a spoon. Make sure it's plain honey without added sugar or flavorings.
• Cough Drops: Some over-the-counter cough drops designed for humans can be used for dogs, but only those that contain simple ingredients like honey or menthol. 
• Mild, Non-Sugar Cough Syrup: Some cough syrups formulated for children contain ingredients that can be safe for dogs. 
• Elevate the Head: If your dog's cough worsens at night, try elevating their head while they sleep. You can use a pillow or folded blanket under their bedding to help keep their airway open.
• Natural Herbal Remedies: Some herbal remedies, such as marshmallow root or licorice root, may help soothe a dog's throat and reduce coughing. 
  Rest and Hydration: Ensure your dog gets plenty of rest and has access to fresh water at all times. Staying hydrated can help soothe the throat.
• Remove Irritants: Identify and remove any potential irritants from your dog's environment, such as smoke, strong odors, or allergens that could be contributing to the cough.

How Do I Know If My Dog Cough is Serious?

It can be challenging to determine whether your dog's cough is a minor issue or a sign of a serious underlying problem. If you notice any of the following signs or circumstances, it's important to take your dog's cough seriously and seek veterinary attention:

• Persistent coughing
• Difficulty breathing
• Coughing up blood
• Lethargy and weakness
• Loss of appetite
• Fever
• Blue gums or tongue

How Do Vets Treat Coughing in Dogs?

The first step is a thorough physical examination of the dog to assess its overall health and identify any obvious signs of illness. The vet will listen to the dog's lungs and heart and check for any abnormalities.
Depending on the initial assessment, the vet may recommend various diagnostic tests to determine the cause of the cough. Common tests include:

• Chest X-rays: These images can reveal abnormalities in the lungs or chest cavity.
• Bloodwork: A complete blood count (CBC) and serum chemistry panel can provide information about overall health and the presence of infection or inflammation.
• Tracheal or Bronchial Wash: A sample of mucus or fluid from the airways may be collected for analysis to identify specific pathogens.
• Heartworm Test: A blood test may be conducted to rule out heartworm infection, which can cause coughing.
• Fecal Examination: Stool samples may be checked for the presence of parasites.
• Cytology or Biopsy: In some cases, the vet may need to collect and analyze tissue samples for a definitive diagnosis.

Once the underlying cause is determined, the veterinarian will develop a treatment plan tailored to the specific condition. Treatment may include:

Antibiotics or antifungal medications for infections. These are used to treat bacterial infections in the respiratory tract. The choice of antibiotic may vary depending on the type of bacteria involved. Common antibiotics for dogs include:

• Amoxicillin
• Clavamox
• Doxycycline
• Cephalexin
• Enrofloxacin

Common antifungal drugs for dogs include:

• Fluconazole
• Itraconazole
• Ketoconazole

Anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce inflammation in the airways, and provide relief for dogs with conditions like bronchitis or allergic reactions. Common anti-inflammatory drugs include:

• Prednisone
• Prednisolone
• Dexamethasone

Cough suppressants or bronchodilators to relieve symptoms.
Heartworm treatment if heartworm disease is diagnosed.
Surgery to remove foreign objects or tumors obstructing the airways.
Managing underlying conditions like heartworm disease or allergies.
Environmental modifications to reduce exposure to irritants or allergens.

Conclusion

Coughing in dogs can have various causes, ranging from minor irritations to severe health conditions. As a responsible pet owner, it's essential to monitor your dog's health closely and seek veterinary assistance when needed. Early detection and treatment can often prevent minor issues from escalating into more significant problems, ensuring your furry friend enjoys a healthy and happy life.