Breathing Problems in Dogs

Panting in dogs is very common, as it is the method for them to relax. But if you notice certain change in the breathing pattern or excess panting, then your dog has some problem in the respiratory tract. Similar to humans, even dogs can have breathing problems. The reasons for breathing difficulties in dogs are several. Reasons for breathing problem can be mild and acute like sneezing or chronic and severe like asthma. Hence, breathing problems in dogs should not be neglected. Let us take a look at some of the common canine respiratory problems. Read more on:

• Dog Health
• Dog Illnesses
• Dog Health Problems

Breathing Problems in Dogs
Breathing problems in dogs can be due to a problem in any part of the respiratory tract. These reasons include a sneeze due to tickle in the nose, to a painful condition in the chest or lungs. Thus, any problem in the respiratory system of the dog will lead to change in the breathing pattern. Common breathing problems in dogs are:

• Coughing
• Wheezing
• Sneezing
• Labored breathing
• Panting excessively
• Nasal discharge
• Rapid breathing
• Shallow breathing

Pet owners should know the normal breathing rate of dogs. The normal rate of breathing in dogs lies between 10-30 breaths a minute. Dogs should not make choking, rattling or groaning noises while breathing. Any such abnormalities in breathing can be a sign of some problem in the respiratory system of the dog. Read more on excessive panting in dogs and why do dogs pant.

Causes of Breathing Problems in Dogs
There are a wide array of reasons that lead to breathing problems in dogs. Many of the problems are quite serious and require a quick diagnosis, so that appropriate treatment is provided. Heart failure, infection in lungs, lung collapse, allergic reaction, injury to chest, pneumonia, etc are some of the causes of breathing problems in dogs. Certain dog breeds are susceptible to breathing problems. These dog breeds have small face and hence, are prone to such dog breathing problems. Pugs, Boston terriers, English Bulldogs, etc are some such dog breeds. Snoring and snorting noises are common in such dogs. Given below is a brief description of each breathing problem.

Coughing: Coughing is due to some damage or inflammation in the windpipe. Sometimes, coughing also takes place when your dog has swallowed something. Other causes include pollution, allergy, infection, poison ingestion, etc. If your cough for more than one day, then you should take it to a veterinarian at the earliest. Read more on, kennel cough.

Labored Breathing: This can be a very serious health condition and needs to be diagnosed soon. Rapid breathing is also noticed along with this symptom. Lung disease, tumors, torn diaphragm, pleural effusion, are some of the causes of labored breathing.

Wheezing: Wheezing is not usually observed in dogs and hence, is a cause of concern. This breathing problem is usually associated with problems in lungs, bronchi, etc. These problems can be serious and hence, need to be checked by a vet immediately.

Sneezing: Sneezing in itself is not a breathing problem but is a result of some other problem in the nasal passage. But if it gets intense, then it can cause bleeding in the nose.

If the breathing problem in your dog goes unnoticed, your dog may not recover from the problem. Since, the dog will not receive the immediate required treatment, the dog's health can worsen further. Thus, it is necessary that dog owners keep a regular watch on the breathing pattern of their dog. If any abnormalities are observed, then the dog should be taken to the veterinarian soon.

Since, there are many reasons that can cause breathing problems in dogs, it is necessary to find out the exact cause, that is causing trouble to your pet. You can find out the average breaths your dog takes every minute, so that, you can easily make out the problem.