Are you concerned that your beloved pooch is coughing up a storm? Coughing is a common symptom of several illnesses and conditions in dogs. Therefore, pet owners need to know the possible causes, treatments, and when to seek professional help.
Coughing in dogs can be caused by anything from allergies to parasites and respiratory infections. It’s important to note that not all coughing is cause for alarm; some types of coughs are benign and harmless. However, other coughs can be signs of more severe illnesses.
The first step in determining whether your dog’s cough is severe or not is to observe the type of cough it has. A “dry” or “non-productive” cough often indicates an allergic reaction or a foreign body stuck in the throat. In contrast, a “wet” or “productive” cough usually means that your pooch has an infection or other respiratory issue.
It’s also important to consider the frequency and length of the coughing fit. If your pup is frequently coughing or for an extended amount of time (more than several minutes at a time), it might indicate something wrong. On the other hand, if it’s just an occasional hacking fit, it may be a sign of allergies or minor irritation in the throat.
If you’re unsure what type of cough your dog has, one way to tell is by observing what else accompanies it. Does he seem uncomfortable or have difficulty breathing? Does he gag or hack after eating? Is there any mucus coming from his nose? These all indicate that something more serious might happen with your pup, and you should contact your veterinarian immediately.
Your vet will likely conduct a physical examination as well as run blood tests and X-rays to determine what’s causing the coughing fits. Depending on the results, they may prescribe antibiotics if the bacterial infection is suspected, anti-inflammatory medication if allergies are causing the problem, or medication to clear up nasal congestion if there appears to be an upper respiratory infection.
Surgery may also be necessary if something like a tumor or foreign object is lodged in your dog’s throat. In any case, it’s important not to ignore any persistent coughing fits and always seek professional veterinarian advice when you’re concerned about your pup’s health.
No matter what kind of cough your dog has, there are some simple home remedies you can try before taking him to the vet’s office:
- Make sure he gets plenty of rest: excessive exercise can make his symptoms worse
- Give him plenty of fluids: this helps keep his mucus membranes moist, which can reduce irritation
- Use steam therapy: a steamy bathroom can help loosen phlegm and reduce congestion
- Use honey: this natural remedy has anti-inflammatory properties which can help soothe sore throats
- Give him probiotics: these help boost immunity which can prevent new infections from occurring
Coughing fits aren’t necessarily caused for alarm, but they shouldn’t be ignored either; always talk with your vet if you’re concerned about the frequency and duration of your pup’s coughing spells. With proper diagnosis and treatment from a qualified veterinarian, most causes can be successfully addressed, so don’t hesitate—take action today!