Why Is My Dog Coughing?

It can be tough to know if your pet is really sick. Just because your dog is coughing, it doesn’t always mean he or she is sick. It’s normal for dogs to cough occasionally, because they’re sniffing, licking, and panting all the time, which causes them to breath in dust and irritants. However, if your dog coughs a lot and can’t seem to stop it might be a sign that they have a sickness, disease, or infection. Coughing in dogs can be caused by fungal infections, heartworms, or lung problems, but one of the most common causes of coughing in dogs is “kennel cough” – also sometimes known as “Bordatella”.

What Is Kennel Cough in Dogs?

Kennel cough is a blanket term that’s used to describe a coughing sickness that can be caused by multiple different pathogens. One of the most common causes of kennel cough is the bacteria called “Bordatella bronchiseptica m”, but just like a human cold there are multiple possible causes. Kennel cough in dogs is caused by inhaling viruses or bacteria, which in turn leads to inflammation in their throats.

Kennel Cough Symptoms in Dogs

Dogs with kennel cough don’t usually have a dainty cough. It’s usually a big, honking cough that sounds like a goose. Some dogs might have other symptoms like runny eyes and nose or less energy. It’s important not to leap to conclusions about your dog’s health based on symptoms alone! Trust your veterinarian to diagnose and treat your furry friend.

Kennel Cough Treatments for Dogs

Most dogs will get over kennel cough eventually, but medication and treatment can lead to a speedier recovery. Talk to you vet and schedule an appointment if you’re concerned about your dogs health. The vet will sometimes prescribe antibiotics or cough medicine for your pup. There are also vaccines designed to prevent kennel cough in the first place, so it’s important to bring your dog into the vet for checkups and to stay on top of their routine vaccinations.

Home Remedies For Kennel Cough

You can help your dog overcome their cough by letting them rest in a humid room. A humidifier can really help! Mixing a small amount of honey into warm water in a bowl once or twice a day can provide some relief for their symptoms. Avoid straining their necks with collars and leashes during this time, too!