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Cough in Dogs

Cough in dogs is a reflexive expulsion of air from the airways, triggered by irritation of the respiratory mucosa. It serves to remove foreign bodies or mucus from the respiratory tract.

Can Occur with the Following Diseases:

Basics and possible causes

Cough in dogs can be triggered by a variety of causes, ranging from harmless irritations to serious diseases. The most common causes are respiratory infections, such as the so-called kennel cough complex, which is caused by viruses and bacteria. These include Canine Parainfluenza virus, Canine Adenovirus type 2, and the bacterium Bordetella bronchiseptica.

Another common cause of cough in dogs is heartworm disease, which is caused by parasitic worms that settle in the heart and lung vessels of the dog. This can lead to severe respiratory distress.

Allergic reactions to pollen, dust, or mold can also trigger cough in dogs. These substances irritate the mucous membranes and lead to an inflammatory reaction, resulting in a cough.

In some cases, cough can also be caused by structural problems in the airways, such as a tracheal collapse, in which the trachea partially collapses and obstructs breathing. Similarly, heart diseases, especially heart failure, can cause cough, as fluid enters the lungs and obstructs air exchange.

Another possible cause is the inhalation of foreign bodies, such as blades of grass or small toy parts, which can block the airways and trigger a cough.

Typical accompanying symptoms

Sneezing: Often accompanied by cough, especially in infections affecting both the upper and lower respiratory tract.
Nasal discharge: A clear or purulent discharge from the nose may indicate an infection or allergy.
Respiratory distress: Labored or wheezing breathing may indicate significant respiratory disease.
Lethargy: Dogs with respiratory diseases may tire more quickly and be less active.
Loss of appetite: Diseases that cause cough can also affect the dog’s appetite.
Vomiting or Gagging: Severe cough can lead to gagging or vomiting, especially if the cough is caused by irritation of the esophagus.
Fever: An Increased body temperature may indicate an infection causing the cough.
Bluish tongue or mucous membranes: This may indicate a lack of oxygen due to respiratory distress.
Weight loss: Chronic diseases can lead to unintended Weight loss.

When to visit the vet?

A veterinarian should be consulted if the dog's cough lasts longer than a few days or if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as shortness of breath, fever, or Weight loss. Likewise, a veterinarian should be consulted immediately if the dog shows signs of choking or if the cough occurs suddenly and violently.

In young puppies, older dogs, or dogs with pre-existing health problems, an immediate veterinary visit is advisable, as their immune system may be weakened and they are more susceptible to serious complications.

Another warning sign for a veterinary visit is bloody or foamy discharge, as this may indicate a serious illness or injury to the respiratory tract.

Symptom recognition for animal owners and veterinary diagnostic procedures

As a pet owner, you should observe the dog’s cough closely. It is important to note the frequency, timing (e.g. at night, after eating) and type of cough (dry, moist, with discharge). This information is crucial for the veterinarian to make a correct diagnosis.

The veterinarian will first perform a thorough clinical examination, which includes listening to the lungs and heart and palpating the neck area. In addition, chest X-rays may be taken to detect structural changes or fluid accumulation in the lungs.

Blood tests may also be necessary to diagnose infections or other systemic diseases. In some cases, a bronchoscopy, in which the airways are examined with a small camera, or sampling of respiratory secretions may be useful to determine the exact cause of the cough.

If heartworm disease is suspected, a special blood test will be performed to confirm the presence of the parasites.

What can pet owners do and professional therapy options

As a first step, the dog should be kept in a quiet environment to minimize stress and excitement, which can worsen the cough. It is important not to overexert the dog and to allow it sufficient rest.

Adequate hydration is crucial to keep the airways moist and loosen mucus. Fresh water should always be available, and if necessary, the pet owner can also offer the dog lukewarm, unsalted broth.

In consultation with the veterinarian, expectorants or cough suppressants can be used to relieve the symptoms. However, these should only be used after consulting a specialist to avoid possible side effects or interactions with other medications.

For allergy-related cough, it may be helpful to keep the dog away from potential allergens. This includes avoiding walks in heavily vegetated areas during pollen season or using an air purifier in the house.

If the cough is caused by an infection, the dog should be kept away from other animals to prevent contagion. Good hygiene, such as regular hand washing after contact with the dog, can also help prevent the spread of pathogens.

Outlook on current research

Current research on cough in dogs focuses on better understanding the diverse causes of this symptom and developing effective treatment options. There is great interest in deciphering the immunological and physiological mechanisms that trigger cough. Researchers are investigating how environmental factors such as air quality and allergens affect the frequency and severity of cough in dogs. Studies show that dogs in urban areas are more likely to suffer from cough than those in rural areas, which indicates exposure to higher concentrations of environmental pollution.

Technological advances are enabling scientists to develop new diagnostic tools, such as wearable devices that monitor and analyze cough in dogs. These devices can provide valuable data on cough frequency, duration, and intensity, which can then be used to identify the underlying causes. In addition, work is underway to find genetic markers that make dogs more susceptible to respiratory diseases, which could lead to personalized medicine, in which treatments are tailored to a dog’s individual genetic background.

There are also ongoing studies to develop new drugs that can specifically suppress the cough reflex in dogs without causing undesirable side effects. For example, researchers are investigating the role of neurotransmitters and receptors in the cough reflex arc to develop targeted drugs that block specific steps in this process. This research could lead to innovative therapies that provide relief to dogs while reducing the need for invasive treatments.

Another area of research is investigating the role of nutrition and supplements in the prevention and treatment of cough. Some studies suggest that certain dietary supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, may have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce cough. These findings could lead to new, cost-effective management strategies that can be easily integrated into the daily lives of dog owners.

Finally, the psychological component of cough in dogs is also being explored. Stress and anxiety can cause or worsen cough in dogs. Research shows that behavioral interventions aimed at reducing stress, such as the use of pheromones or anxiety management training, can have a positive impact on the frequency and intensity of cough. These holistic approaches could be a valuable addition to traditional medical treatments.

Frequently asked questions

What causes cough in dogs? Cough in dogs can be caused by a variety of factors, including infections, allergies, heart disease, foreign objects in the airways, and environmental factors such as smoke or dust.
How can I tell if my dog’s cough is serious? If your dog’s cough is persistent, worsens, is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever or shortness of breath, or your dog seems generally lethargic, you should see a veterinarian.
Can dogs have allergic cough? Yes, dogs can have allergic cough, which is often caused by irritants such as pollen, dust, or mold. This cough is often seasonal and may be accompanied by other allergy symptoms.
How is cough diagnosed in dogs? The diagnosis of cough in dogs is usually made through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests such as X-rays, blood tests, or endoscopy.
Can my dog’s cough be transmitted to me or other pets? Some infections that cause cough in dogs, such as kennel cough, are contagious to other dogs. However, transmission to humans or other animal species is rare.
How can I relieve my dog’s cough at home? You can try to relieve your dog’s cough by keeping him in a humid environment, e.g. by using a humidifier, and making sure he gets plenty of fluids. Also avoid irritants such as smoke or aggressive cleaning agents.
Should I give my coughing dog medication? Do not give your dog any medication without consulting a veterinarian. Some medications can be dangerous for dogs, and treatment should be tailored to the underlying cause of the cough.
Can stress cause cough in dogs? Yes, stress and anxiety can trigger or worsen cough symptoms in dogs. Stress-reducing measures can therefore be part of the treatment.
Is cough normal in older dogs? While older dogs are more susceptible to cough due to chronic conditions such as heart disease or degenerative changes, cough in them should never be considered “normal” and should be examined by a veterinarian.
How long does it usually take for a dog to recover from cough? The recovery time varies depending on the cause of the cough. A simple infectious cough may subside within one to two weeks, while chronic causes may require long-term treatment.

Are you unsure what is wrong with your pet? Feel free to use our symptom checker for more clarity.