Respiratory Issues in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Respiratory issues in dogs can significantly impact their overall health and quality of life. As a responsible and caring dog owner, it’s crucial to understand the various respiratory conditions that can affect your dog, recognize the symptoms, and know how to treat and prevent these issues.

Common Respiratory Problems in Dogs

Dogs are susceptible to many respiratory issues, ranging from mild to severe. Some of the most common include:

• Kennel Cough – Kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory disease initially characterized by a persistent, dry cough. It gets its name from its common occurrence and ease of spread among dogs in kennels, grooming facilities, shelters and dog parks.
• Pneumonia – Pneumonia is an inflammation of the lungs caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi that may develop into fluid or pus build up within the air sacs in the lungs. The symptoms of pneumonia in dogs are largely the same as in humans and must be quickly addressed by a veterinarian as it can become life-threatening.
• Chronic Bronchitis – Chronic bronchitis is a long-term condition in which the airways become inflamed, leading to breathing difficulties and coughing.
• Collapsing Trachea – A collapsed trachea is a condition in which the tracheal rings weaken, leading to a cough that sounds like a honk. If your dog is prone to tracheal collapse, use a harness instead of a collar when walking to keep pressure off their airway and consult with your veterinarian for additional management or treatment strategies.
• Allergies – Dogs can suffer from seasonal allergies or allergies to specific substances that lead to respiratory and skin symptoms, just like humans. Your vet can assist you in determining the source of and methods to manage your dog’s allergies.
• Laryngeal Paralysis – Laryngeal paralysis is a condition that affects the muscles of the larynx, making it difficult for dogs to breathe. It is critical for this condition to be evaluated by your veterinarian for immediate intervention.

Causes of Respiratory Problems in Dogs

Common causes of respiratory problems in dogs include:

• Infectious Agents – Bacteria, viruses, and fungi can all cause respiratory infections when they enter the lungs. Your dog could pick these infectious agents up from the environment inside or outside your home or from other infected dogs.
• Allergens – Pollen, dust, mold, and smoke can all trigger allergic reactions and respiratory issues in dogs. Your vet can assist you in identifying additional allergies so you can avoid them.
• Environmental Factors – Poor air quality, exposure to toxins, and secondhand smoke can lead to respiratory issues in dogs.
• Genetics – Certain dog breeds are more predisposed to respiratory conditions due to their anatomical structure.
• Obesity – Excess weight can put additional strain on a dog’s respiratory system, making breathing issues worse. For this reason, it’s vital that your dog has a healthy diet and regular exercise.

Common Signs/Symptoms of Respiratory Issues in Dogs

Recognizing the symptoms of respiratory problems in your dog is vital for early intervention. The earlier you can get treatment for your dog, the less likely your dog will suffer complications or lasting impacts. Some common symptoms include:

• Coughing – Persistent or severe coughing can indicate a respiratory or cardiac issue. If your dog only occasionally coughs, you likely have nothing to worry about, though it is always important to keep track of any cough and to discuss your dog’s cough with your veterinarian.
• Labored Breathing – If your dog has difficulty breathing, is wheezing, or is breathing rapidly, that could be a sign of respiratory distress and is an emergency.
• Nasal Discharge – Discharge from the nose can be a sign of allergies, respiratory infection or other illness.
• Exercise Intolerance – If your dog struggles with physical activities or does not want to exercise, it may be due to an underlying respiratory issue.
• Loss of Appetite – Respiratory issues, like other illnesses, can cause a loss of appetite. If you notice your dog eating less, it could be a sign that they are unwell.

When Should I Be Concerned About My Dog’s Breathing

There are many illnesses that your dog will recover from on their own if given proper rest, water, and nutrition. However, it’s essential to monitor your dog’s breathing closely and seek veterinary care if you notice any of the following:

• Persistent Coughing – Coughing that lasts for more than a few days or worsens over time is a clear sign that something isn’t right.
• Difficulty Breathing – If your dog has rapid, labored, or noisy breathing, especially if it occurs suddenly or doesn’t stop after they’ve had time to rest and drink water, it may be a sign that something is wrong.
• Blue Gums or Tongue – If your dog’s gums or tongue are blue or pale, this could indicate a lack of oxygen, which requires immediate veterinary attention.
• Lethargy or Weakness – If your dog is unusually tired or weak, it could be due to a respiratory issue. However, even if it isn’t a respiratory issue, it may be another issue, so you should still have your dog checked by your vet.
• Nasal Discharge – If your dog’s nasal discharge is thick, cloudy, or bloody, you should have your vet check them for a respiratory illness.

How to Treat a Dog with Respiratory Issues

The treatment for your dog’s respiratory issues depends on the underlying cause. Your vet can diagnose your dog’s problem and provide an effective treatment plan. However, the most common ways to treat respiratory issues in dogs are:

• Medications – Veterinarians often prescribe antibiotics for bacterial infections, antifungals for fungal infections, and antihistamines or steroids for allergies. If your vet prescribes medication for your dog, follow through with the treatment and don’t skip doses.
• Oxygen Therapy – In severe cases of respiratory illness, your dog may require oxygen therapy. Often, oxygen therapy involves a mask that provides increased oxygen levels to your dog. Other options, such as oxygen tents, are available if your dog refuses to wear the mask.
• Weight Management – Providing your overweight dog with a healthy diet and encouraging them to exercise can help them lose weight and reduce the strain on their respiratory system.
• Environmental Changes – Improving the air quality in your home by using air purifiers and avoiding exposing your dog to smoke and allergens can alleviate their symptoms.
• Surgery – In cases where structural issues cause respiratory problems, such as a collapsed trachea or laryngeal paralysis, surgery may be the only effective treatment method.

Preventing Respiratory Problems in Dogs

You don’t have to wait until your dog suffers from a respiratory problem to help them. Taking simple preventative measures can reduce the risk of your dog developing these illnesses. All dog owners should provide their pets with:

• Regular Vet Check-Ups – Your vet may be able to detect, diagnose, and treat respiratory issues early during your dog’s regular check-ups. One of the most straightforward causes of respiratory conditions your vet can catch early is obesity. If your dog is overweight during one of their check-ups, your vet can provide you with diet and exercise instructions.
• Vaccinations – Keeping your dog up-to-date with their vaccinations can protect them from kennel cough and various other illnesses.
• Healthy Environment – Using non-toxic cleaners, maintaining good air quality, and keeping your home smoke-free can decrease the risk of your dog developing a respiratory issue.
• Weight Management – Keeping your dog at a healthy weight will avoid placing additional strain on their respiratory system. Simple ways to do this include providing nutritious meals, going for regular walks, and initiating play.
• Hydration and Nutrition – A balanced diet does more than keep your dog’s weight in check. Good nutrition and hydration can also improve their ability to fight infections that lead to respiratory and other illnesses.

Dog Respiratory Issues FAQs

Many dog owners have questions about respiratory issues in their pets. We’ve answered some common questions for you here.

Does dog breed affect respiratory issues?

Yes, certain dog breeds are more prone to respiratory problems due to their anatomical structure and genetics. For example, brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds, like bulldogs and pugs, have shorter and more narrow nasal passages and can struggle with breathing issues more frequently than other breeds.

Are puppies more at risk of respiratory problems?

Puppies are more susceptible to respiratory infections because their immune systems are still developing. Most puppies also do not receive vaccines before six to eight weeks, leaving them at risk during the first few weeks of their life. Providing puppies with a clean environment and getting their vaccinations as soon as possible can help reduce the risk of illness.

How long should I quarantine my sick dog from my other dogs?

If you have a dog suffering from a contagious respiratory infection, you should quarantine them for at least two weeks or until your vet confirms they are no longer contagious. This quarantine period helps prevent the infection from spreading to your other pets.

How do I know if my dog’s respiratory condition is contagious?

Respiratory conditions caused by infectious agents, such as kennel cough, are contagious to other dogs. To determine if an infectious agent is the cause of your dog’s respiratory condition, you should have your vet check them out. It may be a good idea to quarantine the unwell dog until you get confirmation from your vet just to be safe.