Why Is My Dog Coughing?
As an asthmatic, I am no stranger to coughing fits. However, I get extremely alarmed when my furry friend has a persistent cough. After all, I want her to be in the best health at all times.
Here are a couple of reasons that canine companions may have a continual cough.
Dogs Could Be Clearly Out Their Throat
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Your furry friend may be just trying to get something small out of their throat. For instance, I notice that my dog will start coughing after she has munched on some grass or played with a fuzzy tennis ball.
Your Dog Might Have a Cold or Flu
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According to the American Kennel Club, dogs can get colds and the flu. Canines with colds or the flu may have a cough, noticeable sneezing, and some congestion. Thankfully, you can help your pup recover at home. In a 2017 YouTube video for PetMD, Dr. Katy Nelson, DVM, shared that there are a few ways dog owners can help their furry friends get back to tip-top shape.
“Pet parents should make sure the dog consumes plenty of water and consider placing a humidifier near the dog’s rest area. While recovering from a cold, it’s best for a dog to get plenty of rest, so activities like travel should be restricted until the cold symptoms have dissipated,” said Dr. Nelson.
Your Dog May Be Suffering From a Collapsing Trachea
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The AKC reported that some dogs, especially those on the smaller side, have issues with breathing due to a tracheal collapse, which can worsen when they are exercising.
Your Canine Companion Could Have Kennel Cough
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According to AKC, this respiratory disease is “highly contagious” and is “easily spread at places where large amounts of canines congregate.” The symptoms can include a “strong cough, runny nose,” a loss of energy, and changes in your puppy's appetite. Thankfully, there is a way for pet parents to help prevent their pups from getting kennel cough.
During a 2020 appearance on “The Jason Show,” Dr. Eric Ruhland, DVM, explained that pup parents can get their dogs the Bordetella bacteria vaccine. Ideally, the vaccine will reduce the chance of your pooch contracting canine infectious tracheobronchitis.
If your pup does end up getting a kennel cough, don’t freak out. According to Dr. Ruhland, the disease is the equivalent of a human cold. That being said, you should take your pup to the vet if they exhibit signs of canine infectious tracheobronchitis.
“Most dogs that are not immunocompromised, that are healthy, that are not super little or not super old. They’re going to get over this in a week or so,” asserted Dr. Ruhland.
Your Furry Friend May Have Lung Issues
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Your pup may be coughing because they have lung issues like pneumonia or asthma.
Your Pup May Have Some Allergies
Unfortunately, our furry friends can suffer from allergies, which can cause a cough. For instance, canine companions commonly have adverse reactions to allergens tree pollen, grass pollen, weed pollen, dust mites, and mold spores. Thankfully, you can lessen their issues with allergies by limiting your pup’s exposure to common allergens by regularly cleaning their surroundings. For instance, you should wash their plush toys and bedding every week. It is also a good idea to either ditch carpets. However, if you are unable to do so, you should vacuum every couple of days. Purchasing dehumidifiers can help reduce the chance of getting mold in your home.
Your Pup May Have Cancer
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Unfortunately, if your dog is constantly coughing, it may be a sign they have cancer.
If you notice that your furry friend has a persistent cough, it’s best to get them checked out by their veterinarian.