How do I get my dog to stop coughing?

Every pet owner will get worried when they hear their dog cough. It's more than just an annoying sound, it could be a sign that something is wrong with our furry friends. As pet lovers, we want our dogs to be healthy and happy, and a persistent cough is a worrying symptom. ​

There are many reasons why dogs cough. One of the most common causes is a respiratory infection. Just like humans, dogs can get a cold or a more serious infection like kennel cough. Kennel cough, also known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis, is highly contagious and often spreads in places where dogs gather, such as kennels, dog parks, or grooming salons. Its symptoms are usually a strong, dry cough that sounds a bit like a goose, and in some cases, it may be accompanied by a runny nose and fever. ​

Another possible reason for a dog cough is allergies. Just like some people are allergic to pollen, dust mites, or certain foods, dogs can also experience allergic reactions. Allergic reactions can cause inflammation of the airways, which can cause coughing. Some dogs cough more frequently during certain seasons when allergens are more plentiful, while others may have symptoms year-round, depending on the type of allergy. If your dog's cough is accompanied by other symptoms, such as itching, red eyes, or a rash, allergies are likely to be the culprit.

Heart problems can also manifest as coughs in dogs. Conditions like congestive heart failure can cause fluid to build up in the lungs, irritating the airways and causing coughing. This type of cough tends to be more persistent and may get worse at night or when your dog is lying down. Dogs with heart-related coughs may also show signs of fatigue, labored breathing, or loss of appetite. If you suspect your dog's cough is related to heart problems, it's important to seek veterinary help immediately, as heart disease can be serious and require prompt treatment. ​

Tracheal collapse is also a factor in dogs' coughs, especially in small breeds. The trachea, or bagpipe, is made up of rings of cartilage to keep it open. In some dogs, these rings of cartilage can weaken or even collapse, making it difficult for air to flow properly, resulting in a characteristic "goose-like" cough. Factors such as obesity, excessive barking, or pulling on the collar can make the symptoms of a collapsed trachea worse. ​

So how can we help a coughing dog? The first and most important step is to take him to the veterinarian. The veterinarian will be able to perform a comprehensive physical examination, listen to the dog's lungs and heart, and may recommend additional tests, such as X-rays, blood tests, or bronchoscopy, to determine the underlying cause of the cough. Once the cause is determined, the veterinarian can prescribe an appropriate treatment plan. ​

If the cough is caused by a respiratory infection, your veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics if it is a bacterial infection. For viral infections like kennel cough, while there is no specific treatment, your veterinarian may recommend supportive care measures, such as resting your dog, ensuring that he drinks plenty of water, and medications to relieve coughing and reduce inflammation. If the cough is caused by allergies, your veterinarian may recommend an elimination diet to identify food allergens or prescribe antihistamines and other medications to control the allergic reaction. If your dog has heart problems, treatment plans will depend on the specific condition and may include medications to improve heart function and reduce fluid in the lungs.​

In addition to following the veterinarian's treatment recommendations, we can also take some measures at home to help dogs relieve coughs. For example, create a clean and comfortable living environment for dogs and reduce the presence of dust and allergens. Clean the dog's bed and toys regularly, and use an air purifier to improve indoor air quality. In terms of diet, make sure the dog consumes a balanced, high-quality food to enhance its immunity. For dogs prone to allergies, you can consider choosing dog food with a hypoallergenic formula. In addition, avoid letting the dog get overexcited or exercise vigorously, as this may aggravate the coughing symptoms. If the dog is used to pulling the collar, you might as well use a chest harness instead to reduce the pressure on the trachea. ​

When we see the dog coughing, our hearts are full of heartache and worry. But as long as we take the dog to the doctor in time, actively cooperate with the treatment, and take good care of it in daily life, there is a great hope that the dog can get rid of the trouble of coughing and regain its former vitality and health. After all, the health and happiness of the dog is the greatest wish of every one of our owners.