A dog that is always coughing can be a real worry for owners. A dog’s cough can stem from various issues, ranging from mild irritations to serious illnesses. Common causes include dog kennel cough, dog bronchitis, dog heartworm, dog pneumonia, dog allergies, dog collapsing trachea, dog upper respiratory infection, dog reverse sneezing, and dog throat irritation, all of which can result in a dog persistent cough.
When you hear your dog coughing, it’s natural to wonder what’s causing it and how to help. This guide will delve into the common reasons behind a dog’s persistent cough, offering insights from veterinary professionals. We’ll explore the symptoms, diagnostic approaches, and treatment options for various conditions that might be making your furry friend cough.
Fathoming the Causes of a Persistent Dog Cough
A cough in dogs is a reflex action to clear their airways. It’s like a cough in humans – a way for the body to get rid of irritants or mucus. However, when that cough becomes frequent or constant, it signals an underlying problem that needs attention.
1. Dog Kennel Cough (Infectious Tracheobronchitis)
What is Dog Kennel Cough?
Dog kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory disease that affects dogs. It’s often compared to the common cold in humans. It’s called kennel cough because it spreads easily in places where many dogs gather, like kennels, doggy daycare, and dog parks.
Causes and Transmission:
This cough is usually caused by a combination of viruses and bacteria.
* Viruses: Canine adenovirus type 2, parainfluenza virus, and canine herpesvirus are common culprits.
* Bacteria: Bordetella bronchiseptica is a primary bacterial cause.
These pathogens damage the lining of the dog’s trachea (windpipe) and bronchi (airways). The virus or bacteria is spread through airborne droplets when an infected dog coughs, sneezes, or barks. Direct contact with infected dogs can also transmit the illness.
Symptoms:
The most recognizable symptom is a dry, hacking cough, often described as sounding like a goose honk or a seal’s bark.
* Coughing fits: These can be triggered by excitement, exercise, or pressure on the throat (like a collar).
* Gagging: Some dogs may gag or retch after a coughing fit.
* Nasal discharge: A clear or white discharge from the nose is common.
* Watery eyes: Similar to nasal discharge, eyes can also be affected.
* Lethargy: Some dogs may seem a bit less energetic.
* Loss of appetite: In milder cases, appetite may not be significantly impacted, but severe cases can lead to reduced eating.
* Fever: A mild fever can sometimes be present.
Diagnosis:
Vets typically diagnose kennel cough based on the characteristic cough and the dog’s history of exposure to other dogs. Physical examination of the throat and airways might reveal inflammation or irritation. In some cases, if symptoms are severe or don’t improve, further tests like chest X-rays or bacterial cultures might be recommended to rule out other conditions.
Treatment:
Most cases of kennel cough are mild and resolve on their own within a few weeks. However, treatment focuses on supportive care and preventing secondary infections.
* Rest: Ensuring the dog gets plenty of rest is crucial.
* Hydration: Encouraging adequate water intake helps keep mucus thin.
* Antibiotics: If a bacterial infection is suspected or confirmed, antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent or treat secondary bacterial infections.
* Cough suppressants: In severe cases where the cough is disruptive, vets might prescribe cough suppressants.
* Avoiding irritants: Keeping the dog away from smoke, dust, and strong fumes can help.
* Harnesses: Using a harness instead of a collar can prevent pressure on the trachea.
Prevention:
Vaccination is the best way to prevent kennel cough. Vaccines are available for the common viral and bacterial components. It’s recommended for dogs that frequently interact with other dogs.
2. Dog Bronchitis
What is Dog Bronchitis?
Dog bronchitis refers to inflammation of the bronchi, the tubes that carry air to the lungs. This inflammation can be acute (sudden and short-lived) or chronic (long-lasting). Chronic bronchitis is more commonly associated with a dog persistent cough.
Causes:
* Infections: Bacterial or viral infections can lead to acute bronchitis.
* Allergens: Inhaled allergens, such as pollen, dust mites, or mold, can trigger inflammation, leading to chronic bronchitis. This is often linked to dog allergies.
* Irritants: Exposure to smoke, air pollution, or strong chemicals can irritate the airways. Dog throat irritation can be a symptom of underlying inflammation.
* Genetics: Some breeds may be predisposed to developing bronchitis.
* Age: Older dogs are more prone to chronic bronchitis.
Symptoms:
* Chronic cough: The hallmark symptom is a persistent cough that can worsen with activity or excitement. The cough can be dry or produce mucus.
* Gagging: Similar to kennel cough, gagging can occur after coughing.
* Wheezing: A whistling sound during breathing.
* Difficulty breathing: In severe cases, dogs may struggle to catch their breath.
* Lethargy: Reduced energy levels.
* Weight loss: Chronic conditions can sometimes lead to weight loss.
Diagnosis:
Veterinary diagnosis involves a thorough physical examination, listening to the lungs with a stethoscope, and reviewing the dog’s history.
* Chest X-rays: These are crucial for assessing the lungs and airways, looking for signs of inflammation, thickened bronchial walls, or other abnormalities.
* Bronchoscopy: In some cases, a procedure called bronchoscopy, where a small camera is inserted into the airways, might be performed to visualize the bronchi and collect samples.
* Blood tests: To check for infection or inflammation.
Treatment:
Treatment for dog bronchitis depends on the underlying cause and severity.
* Antibiotics: If an infection is present.
* Corticosteroids: To reduce inflammation in the airways. These can be oral or inhaled.
* Bronchodilators: Medications to help open up the airways and make breathing easier.
* Cough suppressants: To manage severe coughing.
* Environmental control: For allergy-related bronchitis, identifying and removing allergens from the environment is key.
* Weight management: Keeping the dog at a healthy weight can reduce strain on their respiratory system.
3. Dog Heartworm
What is Dog Heartworm?
Dog heartworm disease is a serious and potentially fatal parasitic disease transmitted by mosquitoes. The worms live in the heart, lungs, and blood vessels of infected animals, causing severe damage.
Transmission:
Mosquitoes become infected by biting an infected animal. When an infected mosquito bites another animal, it transmits the larval worms into the bloodstream. These larvae then mature and migrate to the heart and pulmonary arteries, where they can grow up to a foot long.
Symptoms:
Heartworm disease often progresses silently in the early stages. When symptoms appear, they can be severe.
* Persistent cough: A hallmark symptom, often described as a deep, hacking cough.
* Exercise intolerance: The dog tires easily and may be reluctant to play.
* Weight loss: Unexplained loss of body mass.
* Lethargy: A general lack of energy and enthusiasm.
* Difficulty breathing: Especially after exertion.
* Swollen abdomen: Due to fluid buildup in the belly.
* Heart murmurs: Abnormal heart sounds detected by a veterinarian.
Diagnosis:
Diagnosis is typically made through a blood test that detects antigens produced by adult female heartworms or antibodies produced by the dog’s body in response to the infection.
* Heartworm antigen test: The most common test.
* Heartworm antibody test: Detects the dog’s immune response.
* Microfilaria test: Detects the presence of immature heartworm larvae in the blood.
* Chest X-rays: Can show enlarged heart or changes in the pulmonary arteries.
* Echocardiogram: An ultrasound of the heart to visualize worms and heart damage.
Treatment:
Treating heartworm disease is complex, expensive, and can be dangerous. It involves a series of injections to kill the adult worms and larvae.
* Stabilization: Dogs with severe symptoms may need stabilization before treatment.
* Adulticide injections: Medications administered to kill adult heartworms.
* Antibiotics: Often given to treat a secondary bacterial infection (Wolbachia) that can worsen heartworm disease.
* Microfilaricide treatment: To kill circulating microfilariae.
* Strict rest: For several weeks after treatment is crucial to prevent complications.
Prevention:
Heartworm prevention is vital and much simpler than treatment. Monthly chewables or topical medications are highly effective in preventing infection. It’s important to administer these year-round, as mosquitoes can be present even in cooler months.
4. Dog Pneumonia
What is Dog Pneumonia?
Dog pneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs (alveoli) in one or both lungs. These air sacs may fill with fluid or pus, causing difficulty breathing.
Causes:
* Bacterial infections: Common bacteria like Bordetella bronchiseptica, Pasteurella multocida, and Streptococcus zooepidemicus.
* Viral infections: Canine distemper virus, canine influenza virus.
* Fungal infections: Less common, but can occur in immunocompromised dogs.
* Aspiration: Inhaling foreign material (food, vomit, liquids) into the lungs can lead to aspiration pneumonia. This can happen if a dog has swallowing difficulties or after anesthesia.
* Underlying conditions: Heart disease, cancer, or other respiratory problems can predispose dogs to pneumonia.
Symptoms:
* Cough: Can be dry or productive, often with mucus.
* Fever: A significant increase in body temperature.
* Lethargy: Extreme tiredness and lack of energy.
* Loss of appetite: The dog may refuse to eat.
* Difficulty breathing: Rapid, shallow breathing, or labored breathing.
* Nasal discharge: Can be clear, white, or colored if there’s a bacterial component.
* Crackling or wheezing sounds: Heard when listening to the lungs.
* Blue or pale gums: Indicative of poor oxygenation.
Diagnosis:
Diagnosis requires a veterinary assessment and diagnostic tests:
* Physical examination: Listening to lung sounds.
* Chest X-rays: To visualize the extent of inflammation and fluid in the lungs.
* Blood tests: To check for infection and inflammation markers.
* Bronchoscopy and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL): A procedure to collect fluid from the lungs for microscopic examination and culture to identify the specific pathogen.
Treatment:
Treatment for pneumonia is aggressive and usually requires hospitalization, especially for severe cases.
* Intravenous fluids: To maintain hydration.
* Antibiotics: Crucial for treating bacterial pneumonia.
* Oxygen therapy: To support breathing.
* Nebulization: Delivering medications directly to the lungs via a mist.
* Cough suppressants: Used cautiously, only if the cough is severely disruptive.
* Nutritional support: If the dog is not eating.
* Rest: Essential for recovery.
5. Dog Allergies
What are Dog Allergies?
Dog allergies, also known as atopic dermatitis, are an overreaction of the immune system to otherwise harmless substances in the environment or food. Allergies can manifest in various ways, including skin issues and respiratory symptoms, which can include coughing.
Common Allergens:
* Environmental allergens: Pollen, dust mites, mold spores, grasses, dander from other animals.
* Food allergens: Proteins like chicken, beef, dairy, soy, and grains are common culprits.
* Flea saliva: Even a single flea bite can cause an allergic reaction in sensitive dogs.
Symptoms:
While skin issues like itching, redness, and hair loss are most common, respiratory symptoms can also occur.
* Coughing: Can be a symptom of allergic bronchitis or irritation from inhaled allergens.
* Sneezing: Frequent sneezing fits.
* Watery eyes and nose: Similar to human allergies.
* Skin irritation: Itching, scratching, hot spots, ear infections, and paw licking.
* Wheezing: In some cases.
Diagnosis:
Diagnosing allergies can be challenging. A vet will typically start by ruling out other causes of the symptoms.
* Elimination diet trial: For suspected food allergies, a strict hypoallergenic diet is fed for several weeks to see if symptoms improve.
* Intradermal skin testing: Small amounts of allergens are injected under the skin to see if a reaction occurs.
* Blood tests (serology): Measures antibody levels to various allergens.
Treatment:
* Allergen avoidance: If the allergen can be identified and removed from the environment (e.g., certain foods, bedding).
* Antihistamines: Can provide relief for mild symptoms.
* Corticosteroids: Effective for reducing inflammation but can have side effects with long-term use.
* Immunotherapy (allergy shots or drops): Gradually desensitizes the dog to allergens.
* Medications targeting the immune system: Such as Apoquel or Cytopoint.
* Medications for respiratory symptoms: Bronchodilators or anti-inflammatories may be used for allergic airway inflammation.
6. Dog Collapsing Trachea
What is Dog Collapsing Trachea?
Dog collapsing trachea is a progressive condition where the cartilage rings that hold the trachea open weaken and flatten, causing the airway to narrow or collapse. This leads to difficulty breathing and coughing. It’s more common in small breeds.
Causes:
* Genetics: Predisposition in certain breeds like Yorkshire Terriers, Poodles, Pomeranians, and Chihuahuas.
* Age: Older dogs are more susceptible.
* Congenital defects: Some dogs are born with weaker tracheal cartilage.
* Secondary factors: Obesity, chronic bronchitis, heart disease, and irritation from collars can exacerbate the condition.
Symptoms:
* Characteristic cough: A dry, harsh, honking cough, often triggered by excitement, exercise, pressure on the neck, or eating/drinking. It can sound like a goose honk.
* Gagging: May occur after coughing.
* Difficulty breathing: Especially during exertion or excitement.
* Cyanosis: Bluish discoloration of the gums and tongue if oxygen levels are low.
* Rapid breathing: Panting.
* Fatigue: Reluctance to exercise.
Diagnosis:
* Physical examination: Palpating the trachea during breathing can sometimes induce the characteristic cough.
* Fluoroscopy (real-time X-rays): This is the gold standard for diagnosing collapsing trachea, as it shows the airway narrowing or collapsing during breathing.
* X-rays: Can show signs of tracheal narrowing, but may not capture the collapse in action.
* Tracheal wash: Can help rule out infections or inflammation.
Treatment:
There is no cure for a collapsing trachea, but management focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing flare-ups.
* Weight management: Obesity significantly worsens the condition.
* Harnesses instead of collars: To avoid pressure on the trachea.
* Environmental control: Avoiding irritants like smoke and dust.
* Medications:
* Cough suppressants: To manage the cough.
* Bronchodilators: To help open airways.
* Steroids: To reduce inflammation, used cautiously due to potential side effects.
* Antibiotics: If a secondary infection is present.
* Surgery: In severe, life-threatening cases, surgical implants or stenting can be used to reinforce the trachea, but this is a high-risk procedure.
7. Dog Upper Respiratory Infection (URI)
What is a Dog Upper Respiratory Infection?
A dog upper respiratory infection affects the nose, throat, and voice box. While often less severe than lower respiratory infections, it can still cause discomfort and coughing.
Causes:
URIs are often caused by a combination of viruses and bacteria, similar to kennel cough, but can also include other pathogens.
* Viruses: Canine adenovirus, canine parainfluenza virus, canine herpesvirus, canine respiratory coronavirus.
* Bacteria: Bordetella bronchiseptica, Mycoplasma.
* Environmental irritants: Dust, smoke, strong fumes.
Symptoms:
* Coughing: Can be dry and hacking, or sometimes produce mucus. It can be a sign of dog throat irritation.
* Sneezing: Frequent sneezing.
* Nasal discharge: Can be clear, yellow, or green, indicating bacterial infection.
* Watery eyes: Conjunctivitis.
* Lethargy: Reduced energy.
* Loss of appetite: Especially if the throat is sore.
* Fever: Mild fever may be present.
* Reverse sneezing: Sudden, forceful inhalation of air through the nose, often mistaken for choking or coughing. This is a specific symptom of irritation in the upper airways.
Diagnosis:
Diagnosis is often based on clinical signs and history. Vets may recommend tests to rule out more serious conditions.
* Physical exam: Checking for nasal and ocular discharge, throat inflammation.
* Viral testing: Nasal or throat swabs can be tested for specific viruses.
* Bacterial culture: To identify any bacterial pathogens.
* Chest X-rays: To ensure the infection hasn’t spread to the lungs.
Treatment:
* Rest and hydration: Crucial for recovery.
* Antibiotics: If a bacterial infection is present or suspected.
* Nebulization: Can help loosen mucus and deliver medication.
* Humidifier: To keep airways moist.
* Avoiding irritants: Keeping the dog in a clean, dust-free environment.
* Nutritional support: Encouraging eating by warming food.
8. Dog Reverse Sneezing
What is Dog Reverse Sneezing?
Dog reverse sneezing is a paroxysmal event where a dog experiences a sudden, forceful inhalation through the nose, creating a snorting or gasping sound. It’s often described as the opposite of a normal sneeze. While not a cough, it can be concerning and sometimes mistaken for one.
Causes:
The exact cause is not always clear, but it’s believed to be due to spasms in the throat and larynx, often triggered by:
* Irritation: Excitement, sudden temperature changes, dust, pollen, or other inhaled irritants.
* Allergies: Environmental allergies can contribute.
* Overexcitement: During play or greeting.
* Post-nasal drip: Mucus irritating the throat.
* Irritants from collars: Pressure on the trachea.
Symptoms:
* Sudden onset: The dog will stop and appear to struggle to breathe.
* Snorting/gasping sound: The hallmark of reverse sneezing.
* Legs may flail or stiffen: As the dog tries to catch its breath.
* Usually lasts a few seconds to a minute.
* Dog returns to normal quickly after the episode.
Diagnosis:
Diagnosis is typically made based on the characteristic sound and appearance of the episode. Vets will rule out more serious conditions like choking or a collapsing trachea.
* Observation: The vet may ask owners to record an episode.
* Physical exam: To check for any underlying abnormalities.
Treatment:
Often, no treatment is needed if episodes are infrequent and short-lived.
* Soothing the throat: Gently stroking the dog’s throat or covering their nostrils for a moment can sometimes interrupt the spasm.
* Addressing underlying causes: If allergies are suspected, treatment for allergies may help reduce frequency.
* Avoiding triggers: Identifying and minimizing exposure to triggers like dust or smoke.
9. Dog Throat Irritation
What is Dog Throat Irritation?
Dog throat irritation can manifest as a cough or gagging. It’s a symptom rather than a disease itself and can have many underlying causes.
Causes:
* Inhaled irritants: Smoke, perfumes, cleaning products, dust.
* Post-nasal drip: Mucus from allergies or infections dripping down the back of the throat.
* Foreign objects: A small object lodged in the throat.
* Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD): Stomach acid coming up into the esophagus and throat.
* Irritation from collars or harnesses: Especially if they rub against the trachea.
* Certain medications: Some oral medications can cause throat irritation.
* Tumors or masses: In rare cases, growths in the throat or surrounding areas.
Symptoms:
* Coughing: Often dry and hacking.
* Gagging or retching: As if trying to clear the throat.
* Swallowing difficulties: May appear reluctant to eat or drink.
* Excessive swallowing: Licking lips frequently.
* Changes in bark: Hoarseness.
Diagnosis:
* Physical exam: Thorough examination of the mouth, throat, and neck.
* X-rays or CT scan: If a foreign object or tumor is suspected.
* Endoscopy: To visualize the throat and esophagus.
* Dietary review: To assess for GERD or food sensitivities.
Treatment:
Treatment depends entirely on the identified cause.
* Removing irritants: Changing cleaning products, avoiding smoke.
* Medications: Antacids for GERD, antibiotics for infection, anti-inflammatories.
* Dietary changes: If food sensitivities are involved.
* Surgery: To remove foreign objects or tumors.
* Adjusting walking gear: Using a harness instead of a collar.
When to See the Vet for a Coughing Dog
It’s important to consult a veterinarian if your dog’s cough is:
- Persistent: Lasts for more than a few days or weeks.
- Severe: Causes distress, difficulty breathing, or significant discomfort.
- Accompanied by other symptoms: Such as lethargy, fever, loss of appetite, vomiting, or nasal discharge.
- Worsening: The cough is increasing in frequency or intensity.
- Interfering with life: Preventing the dog from sleeping or eating normally.
Diagnostic Process: What to Expect at the Vet
When you bring your dog in for a persistent cough, your vet will likely follow a systematic approach:
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History Taking: The vet will ask detailed questions about the cough:
- When did it start?
- What does it sound like?
- When does it occur (time of day, after exercise, at rest)?
- Are there any triggers (excitement, eating, drinking)?
- Are there other symptoms?
- What is your dog’s vaccination status?
- Has your dog been exposed to other dogs or new environments?
- What is your dog’s diet and lifestyle?
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Physical Examination: This includes:
- General observation: Assessing your dog’s overall condition, breathing effort, and alertness.
- Palpation: Feeling the throat, chest, and abdomen.
- Auscultation: Listening to the heart and lungs with a stethoscope for abnormal sounds (crackles, wheezes, murmurs).
- Oral examination: Checking the mouth, throat, and teeth for any obvious irritants or abnormalities.
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Diagnostic Tests: Based on the initial findings, the vet may recommend:
- Chest X-rays: Essential for evaluating the lungs, heart, and airways. They can reveal signs of pneumonia, bronchitis, heart enlargement, or foreign bodies.
- Blood Tests: Complete blood count (CBC) and chemistry panel can help identify infection, inflammation, or organ dysfunction.
- Heartworm Test: A crucial screening test for a potentially life-threatening parasitic disease.
- Fecal Parasite Exam: To rule out other parasitic causes.
- Bronchoscopy: A procedure using a flexible camera to examine the airways directly, allowing for the collection of samples for cytology and culture.
- Tracheal Wash or Bronchoalveolar Lavage (BAL): Collection of fluid from the airways to diagnose infections (bacterial, fungal) or inflammatory conditions.
- Allergy Testing: If allergies are suspected.
- Echocardiogram: An ultrasound of the heart to assess cardiac function and look for structural abnormalities or heartworm.
Treatment Approaches and Home Care
Treatment strategies will vary widely depending on the diagnosed cause. However, some general principles and home care tips can support your dog’s recovery:
Medical Treatments
- Antibiotics: For bacterial infections (pneumonia, bronchitis).
- Antivirals: For certain viral infections (less common, often supportive care).
- Antiparasitics: Medications to treat or prevent heartworm.
- Cough Suppressants: To alleviate the urge to cough and allow rest.
- Bronchodilators: To open airways and ease breathing.
- Anti-inflammatories: Steroids or NSAIDs to reduce airway inflammation.
- Diuretics: If fluid buildup due to heart disease is contributing to the cough.
- Allergy Medications: Antihistamines, steroids, or immunotherapy.
- Surgery: In cases of foreign body obstruction or severe collapsing trachea.
Supportive Home Care
- Rest: Ensure your dog has a quiet, comfortable place to rest without overexertion.
- Hydration: Provide fresh, clean water at all times. Warming water or adding a little low-sodium chicken broth can encourage drinking.
- Humidity: Using a humidifier in the room where your dog sleeps can help keep their airways moist and loosen mucus.
- Diet: Offer highly palatable, nutritious food. Warming food can enhance its aroma and encourage appetite. For throat irritation, softer foods might be easier to swallow.
- Avoid Irritants: Keep your home free from smoke, strong perfumes, air fresheners, and harsh cleaning chemicals.
- Leash Walking: Use a harness instead of a collar, especially if a collapsing trachea or throat irritation is suspected.
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep a close watch on your dog’s breathing, energy levels, and appetite. Report any changes to your vet.
- Administer Medications as Prescribed: Complete the full course of antibiotics and follow dosage instructions for all medications.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is a coughing dog contagious to humans?
Generally, dog respiratory infections are specific to dogs and are not contagious to humans. However, some underlying conditions might be a concern if the dog is immunocompromised. Always practice good hygiene.
Q2: Can my dog’s cough be a sign of something serious like cancer?
While less common, cancerous growths in the chest or airways can cause a persistent cough. This is why a veterinary examination, including X-rays, is crucial for diagnosis.
Q3: My dog coughs mostly at night. What could this mean?
Coughing at night can be related to congestive heart failure, where fluid can accumulate in the lungs when lying down. It can also indicate tracheal collapse or bronchitis that is exacerbated by lying position or cooler night air.
Q4: How long does it take for kennel cough to clear up?
Most cases of kennel cough resolve within 1-3 weeks with supportive care. However, some dogs may have a lingering cough for longer. If symptoms worsen or persist beyond this period, veterinary re-evaluation is necessary.
Q5: Can I give my dog over-the-counter cough medicine?
It is strongly advised not to give your dog any human over-the-counter medications without explicit veterinary instruction. Many human medications are toxic to dogs, and incorrect dosages can be dangerous. Always consult your vet.
Conclusion
A persistent cough in your dog is a symptom that should never be ignored. It can signal a range of issues, from mild irritations to serious, life-threatening diseases. By working closely with your veterinarian, providing accurate information about your dog’s symptoms, and following their diagnostic and treatment recommendations, you can help your furry companion breathe easier and live a healthier, happier life. Early detection and intervention are key to successful management of most causes of a dog persistent cough.