Home » Symptoms » Dog Symptoms A-Z » Recurrent Pulmonary Infections

Recurrent Pulmonary Infections in Dogs

Author: Dr. med. vet. Gisa Löwe | Last modified: 16.02.2026

When to visit the vet?

Non-urgent see a veterinarian within 2–3 days

If the condition worsens / symptoms persist, consult a veterinarian.

Unsure about what’s wrong with your pet? Feel free to use our Symptom Checker for more clarity

Frequent lung infections in dogs refer to recurring or chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. Inflammatory conditions of the lungs, which can be caused by various infectiousInfectious describes the ability of a pathogen to be transmitted from one individual to another and trigger an infection. It also refers to diseases caused by such pathogens. agents such as bacteriaBacteria are microscopic, single-celled organisms that exist in almost every environment on Earth. Some types of bacteria are beneficial or even essential to life, while others can cause disease., viruses, or fungi. These infections impair breathing function and can lead to serious health problems.

Can Occur with the Following Diseases:

Grundlagen und mögliche Ursachen

The lungs are a vital organ responsible for exchanging oxygen and carbon dioxide. With a lung infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease., this exchange is disrupted, making it harder for the dog to breathe. The causes of lung infections are varied and can be both infectiousInfectious describes the ability of a pathogen to be transmitted from one individual to another and trigger an infection. It also refers to diseases caused by such pathogens. and non-infectious in nature.

One of the most common causes of lung infections in dogs is bacterial infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.. BacteriaBacteria are microscopic, single-celled organisms that exist in almost every environment on Earth. Some types of bacteria are beneficial or even essential to life, while others can cause disease. can enter the lungs through the airways and triggerA trigger is a stimulus that elicits a specific reaction or state. In veterinary medicine, this can refer to emotional responses, such as fear or aggression, or medical conditions, such as seizures in dogs and cats. inflammation there. Streptococcus and Bordetella bronchiseptica are examples of bacteriaBacteria are microscopic, single-celled organisms that exist in almost every environment on Earth. Some types of bacteria are beneficial or even essential to life, while others can cause disease. commonly associated with lung infections.

Viruses also play a key role in the development of lung infections. CanineCanine refers to anything related to dogs. The term is used to describe characteristics, diseases, or specific aspects that specifically affect dogs. parainfluenza virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants. and canineCanine refers to anything related to dogs. The term is used to describe characteristics, diseases, or specific aspects that specifically affect dogs. adenovirus are common viralViral refers to viruses and their effects on the organism. Viral infections in dogs and cats can range from harmless colds to severe, life-threatening diseases. pathogens that can cause respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. disease. ViralViral refers to viruses and their effects on the organism. Viral infections in dogs and cats can range from harmless colds to severe, life-threatening diseases. infections often weaken the immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body. and make the dog more susceptible to secondary bacterial infections.

Fungal infections are less common, but they can also lead to severe lung problems. Histoplasmosis and aspergillosis are examples of fungal infections that can affect the lungs, especially in dogs with a weakened immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body..

Other factors that can contribute to lung infections include allergies, environmental irritants such as smoke or pollutants, and anatomical abnormalities of the airways. These factors can weaken the lungs’ defense mechanisms and increase the risk of infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease..

Typische Begleitsymptome

Cough: A common symptom indicating irritation of the airways due to infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease..
Difficulty breathing: The dog may breathe heavily, pant, or show an increased respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. rate.
Sneezing: May indicate an upper respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. that can spread to the lungs.
Lethargy: The dog seems tired and shows little interest in activities, which may indicate a systemic infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease..
Loss of appetite: Reduced food intake can accompany infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. and general malaise.
Fever: An increased body temperature in response to an infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease..
Discharge from the nose or eyes: May indicate an infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. or inflammation of the airways.

Wann zum Tierarzt?

You should see a veterinarian if your dog shows signs of RespiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. distress or if symptoms last longer than a few days. RespiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. distress can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention.

If there are other alarming symptoms such as bloody sputum, high Fever, or extreme lethargy, consult a veterinarian immediately. Such symptoms may indicate a serious infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. or complications.

Early intervention can often prevent the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. from worsening and causing serious health consequences. A veterinarian can determine the exact cause of the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. and start appropriate treatment.

Symptomerkennung für den Tierhalter und tierärztliches diagnostisches Vorgehen

As a pet owner, it’s important to recognize the symptoms of lung infections early. Watch for changes in your dog’s behavior, especially signs of RespiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. distress, Cough, or lethargy. Careful observation can provide valuable information to the veterinarian.

The veterinarian will perform a thorough clinical examination to assess the condition of the lungs. This includes listening to the lungs with a stethoscopeA stethoscope is a medical instrument used for auscultation, or listening to body sounds, such as heartbeats and lung sounds. It is a fundamental tool in medical diagnostics. to identify abnormal breath sounds.

Additional diagnostic tests may be necessary to determine the exact cause of the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.. These include chest X-rays to assess the extent of lung involvement, as well as blood tests to identify inflammatory markerInflammatory markers are substances in the blood that increase in concentration when there are inflammatory conditions in the body. They help with the diagnosis and monitoring of inflammatory conditions in dogs and cats. and infectiousInfectious describes the ability of a pathogen to be transmitted from one individual to another and trigger an infection. It also refers to diseases caused by such pathogens. agents.

In some cases, a bronchoscopyBronchoscopy is a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure in which the inside of the airways is directly viewed with a bronchoscope, a thin, flexible viewing tube. It can be used to take tissue samples or remove foreign objects. or an examination of the nasopharyngeal area may be performed to collect samples for microbiological analysis. These tests help identify the specific pathogenA pathogen is a microorganism or virus that can cause disease in its host. Pathogens include bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. and enable targeted treatment.

Was kann der Tierhalter tun und professionelle Therapieoptionen

As a pet owner, you can take steps to relieve your dog’s symptoms and support recovery. Make sure your dog stays in a clean, smoke-free environment to avoid additional irritation of the airways.

Encourage your dog to drink enough water to ensure adequate hydration. Fluids help loosen mucus and keep the airways clear.

Offer your dog easily digestible food to stimulate their appetite. This can help maintain energy levels and speed up recovery.

Avoid strenuous activities that could further strain your dog’s breathing. Give them the rest they need to recover from the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease..

If prescribed by the veterinarian, give medications such as antibiotics or anti-inflammatory drugsAnti-inflammatory drugs are medications that reduce inflammation. They can be divided into nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids and are used in dogs and cats to reduce Inflammatory conditions and Pain. as directed. It’s important to complete the full course of treatment to ensure the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. has fully cleared.

Ausblick auf aktuelle Forschung

Research into frequent lung infections in dogs focuses strongly on identifying and managing these symptoms to improve the quality of life of affected animals. In recent years, significant progress has been made in developing diagnostic methods. One of the most promising approaches is the use of advanced imaging techniques such as computed tomography (CT)Computed tomography (CT) is an imaging technique that uses X-rays and computer technology to create cross-sectional images of the body. It enables a detailed view of bones, organs, and other structures and is used for the diagnosis of injuries, diseases, and for planning medical interventions. and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)Magnetic resonance imaging is an imaging technique that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the inside of the body. It is used in veterinary medicine to diagnose diseases of the brain, spine, and other organs.. These technologies enable a detailed examination of lung structure, allowing veterinarians to detect lung infections earlier and treat them more effectively.

Another area of research looks at the role of the immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body. in the development and progressionProgression refers to the advancement or worsening of a disease over time. It describes an increase in the severity or extent of the disease symptoms. of lung infections. Scientists are investigating the genetic and environmental factors that influence a dog’s immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body. and can increase its susceptibility to infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.. Some studies focus on identifying specific biomarkers that indicate an increased risk of lung infections. In the future, these biomarkers could serve as an early warning system and enable targeted preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring..

Antibiotic resistanceResistance refers to the ability of microorganisms to withstand the effects of antibiotics, antifungals, or other antimicrobial drugs. Resistance can also refer to the body's ability to be insensitive to diseases or toxins. is another key topic in research on lung infections in dogs. Because many bacterial infections are treated with antibiotics, growing resistanceResistance refers to the ability of microorganisms to withstand the effects of antibiotics, antifungals, or other antimicrobial drugs. Resistance can also refer to the body's ability to be insensitive to diseases or toxins. is a serious problem. Researchers are exploring alternative treatment methods, including developing new antibiotics and using probiotics to support the dog’s natural defenses. There are also efforts to develop vaccines that can target specific pathogens to prevent recurring infections.

An emerging field of research is studying the role of microflora in dogs’ airways. Similar to the gut, the balance of microorganisms in the airways may play a crucial role in protecting against infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.. InitialInitial means beginning or at the start. In medicine, it can refer to the first symptoms of a disease or the first phase of a treatment process. studies suggest that disrupted microflora could increase the risk of lung infections. This opens up new possibilities for preventive and therapeutic approaches, such as specifically influencing the microbial composition through special diets or supplementary measures.

In addition, researchers are looking at the effects of environmental factors on the occurrence of lung infections. Air pollution, secondhand smoke, and poor indoor ventilation could increase the risk of respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. disease in dogs. Studies are trying to quantify how much these factors strain the immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body. and contribute to susceptibility to lung infections. These findings could lead to recommendations for an optimized living environment for dogs in the future.

Research into the prevalence of lung infections in different breeds shows that certain dog breeds are more prone to respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. disease. This may be due to genetic factors, anatomical differences, or breed-specific living conditions. A better understanding of these breed-specific risks could help veterinarians develop more individualized preventive and treatment strategies tailored to the specific needs of each breed.

Another innovative research approach is using artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze diagnostic data. By applying machine learning, algorithms can be developed that recognize patterns in dogs’ health data and provide early indications of potential lung infections. This technology could significantly improve the efficiency and accuracy of diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and shorten response times in the event of an infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease..

Continuing research in these areas is crucial for improving healthcare for dogs. With a better understanding of the mechanisms behind frequent lung infections, more precise and gentler treatment methods can be developed. Integrating new technologies and findings from basic research into everyday clinical practice will make it possible to sustainably improve the quality of life of dogs with respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. disease.

Häufig gestellte Fragen

What are the most common symptoms of pulmonaryPulmonary refers to the lungs or the respiratory system. Pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats include conditions such as Pneumonia, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. infections in dogs? Common symptoms include Cough, RespiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. distress, nasal discharge, Fever, and general weakness or lethargy. Dogs may also show signs of loss of appetite and Weight loss.
How are pulmonaryPulmonary refers to the lungs or the respiratory system. Pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats include conditions such as Pneumonia, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. infections diagnosed in dogs? DiagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is usually made through a combination of physical examinations, chest X-rays, blood tests, and sometimes bronchoscopyBronchoscopy is a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure in which the inside of the airways is directly viewed with a bronchoscope, a thin, flexible viewing tube. It can be used to take tissue samples or remove foreign objects. to collect samples from the airways.
Can pulmonaryPulmonary refers to the lungs or the respiratory system. Pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats include conditions such as Pneumonia, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. infections be contagiousContagious means infectious. Diseases that can easily be transmitted from one animal to another or from animals to humans are referred to as contagious. in dogs? Yes, some lung infections—especially those caused by viruses or bacteria—can be contagiousContagious means infectious. Diseases that can easily be transmitted from one animal to another or from animals to humans are referred to as contagious.. They can be transmitted from dog to dog through direct contact or droplet infectionDroplet infection refers to the transmission of pathogens through small droplets of liquid that are released into the air when infected people Cough, Sneeze, or talk and are inhaled by other people..
What role does the immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body. play in lung infections? The immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body. is crucial for defending against pathogens that can cause lung infections. A weakened immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body. can increase susceptibility to infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. and worsen the course of disease.
How are pulmonaryPulmonary refers to the lungs or the respiratory system. Pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats include conditions such as Pneumonia, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. infections treated in dogs? Treatment depends on the cause of the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.. Bacterial infections are often treated with antibiotics, while supportiveSupportive refers to supportive treatments that aim to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life without directly treating the underlying cause of the disease. measures such as hydration and rest are most important for viralViral refers to viruses and their effects on the organism. Viral infections in dogs and cats can range from harmless colds to severe, life-threatening diseases. infections.
Can pulmonaryPulmonary refers to the lungs or the respiratory system. Pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats include conditions such as Pneumonia, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. infections be prevented in dogs? Some infections can be prevented by vaccinationVaccination is the process of administering a vaccine to develop immunity against a specific infectious disease. It is one of the most effective methods of prevention of infectious diseases., others through good hygiene and a healthy lifestyle. Regular veterinary check-ups for early detection are also important.
Which dogs are most susceptible to pulmonaryPulmonary refers to the lungs or the respiratory system. Pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats include conditions such as Pneumonia, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. infections? Dogs with a weakened immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body., older dogs, and certain breeds with anatomical airway features may be more susceptible. Dogs living in overcrowded or unhygienic conditions are also at higher risk.
How long does it take for a dog to recover from a pulmonaryPulmonary refers to the lungs or the respiratory system. Pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats include conditions such as Pneumonia, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.? Recovery time can vary depending on the severity of the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. and the dog’s overall health. Recovery typically takes anywhere from a few days to several weeks.
Can a lung infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. in dogs lead to chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. problems? Yes, untreated or frequently recurring lung infections can lead to chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. breathing problems. It’s important to recognize and treat lung infections early to avoid long-term damage.
What can owners do to minimize the risk of pulmonaryPulmonary refers to the lungs or the respiratory system. Pulmonary diseases in dogs and cats include conditions such as Pneumonia, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. infections? Owners should ensure their dog is vaccinated regularly, receives a balanced diet, and lives in a clean environment. Regular exercise and veterinary visits for prevention are also important.