Dogs cough for various reasons ranging from mild throat irritation to serious health conditions. Common causes of coughing in dogs include:
- Throat irritation from inhaled irritants like water, smoke, or strong scents, which usually causes occasional coughing and is not serious.
- Allergies to airborne allergens such as pollen, dust, or smoke, often accompanied by symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, and watery eyes.
- Infections such as kennel cough (a contagious respiratory infection), canine influenza, distemper, bacterial or viral respiratory infections, and pneumonia.
- Heart disease causing enlargement of the heart or fluid buildup, which compresses airways and results in coughing, especially worse at night or when resting.
- Chronic bronchitis and pulmonary conditions like lungworm or heartworm disease.
- Foreign objects or foxtails stuck in the throat or airways causing irritation and coughing.
- Obesity, which can worsen airway conditions and trigger coughing during activity.
- More serious causes like tumors in the trachea or larynx, lung lobe torsion, and aspiration pneumonia.
If the cough is persistent, severe, accompanied by other symptoms (like lethargy, fever, coughing up blood or white foam), or worsens over time, it's important to see a veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Regular check-ups and vaccinations can help prevent some causes like kennel cough and distemper. In summary, coughing in dogs can range from minor irritations to signs of serious illnesses and should be evaluated by a vet if persistent or severe.
