Coughing in Dogs

One of the many disorders suffered by dogs is coughing. Though not a severe disorder, coughing can cause a lot of discomfort to the dog. There are various reasons for it. In very rare cases, the underlying reason of the cough is a severe one and if left untreated, can complicate the situation and might even lead to the death of the dog. Coughing leads to the strain in the muscles which can also lead to pain.

Causes of Coughing in Dogs
There are various reasons that can lead to coughing in dogs. Have a look at a few important reasons.

• A very common reason for coughing in dogs is kennel cough. Kennel cough in dogs is caused due to respiratory illness and is also contagious. It is known to spread rapidly through the kennels. You may like to know more on kennel cough home remedy and is kennel cough contagious.
• If the kennel cough is not treated on time, it further gives rise to bacterial pneumonia. Most of the time, bacterial pneumonia causes chronic coughing in dogs.
• Allergies can also give rise to cough. If the dogs are allergic to dust, cigarette smoke, grass and pollens then they might suffer from cough. These allergic materials can irritate the respiratory system which thus gives rise to cough in dogs.
• If while eating, the dog gulps in a large piece which is difficult to swallow, then cough can be triggered. Swallowing a large piece leads to the choking of the throat which can give rise to a retching like sound. Most of the dogs tend to panic during this kind of situation. Try to calm down the dog so that he can swallow the big piece properly.
• The breeds which have flat face tend to cough more. Also, if the dog snores more, then he is prone to coughing.
• In some cases, medical conditions like fever or other illnesses can cause cough.
• It is also caused due to different viruses and bacteria.
• The presence of internal parasites in the intestinal tract can also lead to this medical condition.

Treatment for Coughing in Dogs
In most cases, kennel cough does not require any kind of treatment and is healed within 2 to 3 weeks. The age makes a difference and in some cases, the cough in very young and very old does not heal immediately. But, if the cough is severe then the treatment becomes a must and hence, the dog should be taken to the veterinarian immediately.

Other than this, doing a few things can help in alleviating this medical condition. Like keeping the dog warm and away from dust, dog fleas and other elements which might trigger cough. Sore and irritated throat can cause cough. Hence, make sure that the dog drinks plenty of freshwater and also consumes wet dog food. In order to prevent coughing remove, the dog's collar. You can also try some homeopathic herbs but only if you are sure that it will work and will not have any side effect on the dog.

This was in brief about coughing in dogs. Coughing is an annoying situation and very much like humans, it irritates the dog too. Hence, make sure that the cough in dogs is treated as soon as possible.