Coughing in Dogs

Kennel cough or also known as canine cough in dogs is characterized by a deep, dry, hacking cough. Another cause for this type of this of cough is that something could possibly be stuck in their throat. If the cough is wet or gurgly may be an indication that fluid or phlegm has built up in the lungs.

If a human coughs it is to clear out their throat or due to a cold or flu. If a human has a persistent cough it could be a sign of pneumonia or a more serious condition such as cancer. However, in dogs, a cough can be a sign of numerous different conditions. Clues of the type of cough that your dog has are the dog’s breed or the circumstances surrounding when the dog is coughing.

Kennel cough is a highly transmittable viral or bacterial infection. If your dog begins to cough after a recent stay at a boarding facility or in another circumstance where he or she has been in contact with multiple dogs they could have contracted kennel cough. This cough usually gets worse with exertion. If this is the case it is best to seek veterinarian consultation to prevent any further complications. Tonsillitis is rare in dogs but can be diagnosed by a veterinarian. Signs of tonsillitis in dogs are swallowing motions and licking its lips accompanied by a high pitched gagging cough but can also indicate a sore throat. This type of cough can also be a sign that there is an obstruction in the throat.

When a dog has a cough that sounds like he or she is gargling is a sign of fluid or phlegm in the lungs. Predominantly this occurs with pneumonia, which mainly occurs in adult and senior dogs. Pneumonia is mostly caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites. Another cause of pneumonia is if a dog aspirates on a foreign body or they aspirate on vomit.

The tiny toy breeds and extra small dogs are known to have a condition called collapsing trachea. When these little dogs have this condition and they cough it is a honking goose sound. Dogs that pull strongly against their collars also make this honking goose sounding cough. The breed of Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a breed that is prone to heart disease. If these dogs cough while laying down or mostly at night this could be a sign that the disease is progressing.

If anyone of these types of coughs become more frequent than usual or becomes violent, it is recommended to immediately transport him or her to your veterinarian. If diagnosed early most conditions that cause coughing can be managed or treated fairly easily. If your dog is diagnosed with kennel cough the veterinarian will prescribe antibiotics and they should be quarantined to prevent further spread of the infection.