Why Is My Dog Sneezing And Coughing? Causes & Care

Image Source: vetic.in

Why Is My Dog Sneezing and Coughing? Causes & Care

When your dog sneezes and coughs, it’s natural to worry. Many things can cause these symptoms, ranging from minor irritations to more serious canine respiratory illness. Most often, these are signs of common issues like allergies, infections, or even environmental irritants.

It’s distressing to see your furry friend unwell. Recognizing the potential causes and knowing how to provide care can help you support your dog’s health and get them back to their happy, playful selves quickly.

Pinpointing the Reasons for Sneezing and Coughing

Dogs sneeze and cough for a variety of reasons, just like humans do. These actions are the body’s way of clearing the airways of irritants, mucus, or foreign objects. Let’s delve into the common culprits.

Environmental Irritants

Your dog’s sensitive nasal passages and lungs can be easily affected by things in their surroundings. These can include:

• Dust and Pollen: Just like us, dogs can develop allergies to airborne particles like dust, mold spores, and pollen from grasses, trees, and flowers. This is especially common during certain seasons.
• Smoke: Cigarette smoke, wood smoke from fireplaces or campfires, and even strong fumes from cleaning products can irritate a dog’s respiratory system, leading to sneezing and coughing.
• Perfumes and Air Fresheners: Many commercial products contain chemicals that can be too harsh for a dog’s delicate senses, triggering a sneezing fit.
• Strong Scents: Certain household cleaners, aerosol sprays, or even strong cooking odors can cause temporary irritation and sneezing.

Allergies in Dogs

Dog allergies symptoms can manifest in various ways, including respiratory issues. Allergens can be inhaled, ingested, or come into contact with the skin.

• Inhalant Allergens: These are similar to environmental irritants. Pollen, dust mites, mold, and dander from other animals are common triggers.
• Food Allergies: While less common as a primary cause of sneezing and coughing, some dogs can react to certain ingredients in their food, leading to a range of symptoms that might include respiratory irritation.
• Contact Allergens: Sometimes, direct contact with something like a new bedding material or a cleaning product on the floor can cause a reaction, though this is less likely to cause widespread sneezing and coughing.

Infections

Infections are a very common reason for sneezing and coughing in dogs. These can be viral, bacterial, or fungal.

• Canine Influenza (Dog Flu): This highly contagious viral infection can cause symptoms like coughing, sneezing, fever, lethargy, and nasal discharge. It can spread rapidly in environments where dogs congregate.
• Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex (CIRDC) or “Kennel Cough”: This is a broad term for highly contagious respiratory infections. It’s often caused by a combination of viruses and bacteria.
  • Dog kennel cough symptoms typically include a sudden, forceful, hacking cough, often described as sounding like a goose honk. Dogs may also sneeze, have a runny nose, and appear lethargic. Vomiting or gagging after a coughing fit is also common.
• Bacterial Infections: Secondary bacterial infections can develop after a viral illness or on their own, leading to more severe symptoms.
• Fungal Infections: Less common, but fungal infections of the respiratory tract can occur, particularly in dogs with weakened immune systems or those exposed to contaminated environments (like dusty soil).

Foreign Objects in the Airway

Sometimes, a dog sneezes because something is temporarily lodged in their nasal passages.

• Grass Blades or Seeds: Dogs love to sniff around in the grass, and small pieces of grass or seeds can easily get stuck in their noses, causing sudden, intense sneezing to try and dislodge them.
• Small Debris: Other small particles, like dust bunnies or tiny pieces of food, can also cause temporary nasal irritation.

Dental and Oral Issues

Problems in the mouth can sometimes lead to sneezing and coughing.

• Tooth Root Abscesses: An infection at the root of a tooth can affect the nasal cavity, leading to sneezing, nasal discharge, and facial swelling.
• Oral Tumors: Growths in the mouth or nasal passages can cause irritation, obstruction, and subsequent sneezing or coughing.
• Dog throat irritation: Swollen tonsils or other irritation in the throat can cause a dog to cough or gag, which might be mistaken for sneezing.

Parasites

Certain parasites can affect a dog’s respiratory system.

• Lungworms: These parasites live in the respiratory tract and can cause coughing, difficulty breathing, and lethargy. They are often contracted by eating infected snails or slugs.
• Heartworms: While primarily affecting the heart and blood vessels, advanced heartworm disease can lead to coughing and difficulty breathing.

Brachycephalic (Short-Nosed) Breeds

Dogs with short noses, such as Pugs, Bulldogs, and Shih Tzus, are predisposed to certain respiratory issues.

• Elongated Soft Palate: This condition can cause gagging, choking, and coughing, especially after exercise or excitement.
• Tracheal Collapse: The trachea (windpipe) can become weakened and narrow, leading to a characteristic “goose honk” cough.
• Pharyngeal Irritation: Their unique facial structure can make them more prone to irritation in their throat and upper airway.

Other Medical Conditions

Less common, but still possible, causes include:

• Heart Disease: In some cases, especially in older dogs, coughing can be a sign of congestive heart failure. The cough is often dry and may be worse at night.
• Pneumonia: An infection of the lungs can cause severe coughing, difficulty breathing, fever, and lethargy.
• Allergic Bronchitis: Similar to asthma in humans, this condition causes inflammation of the airways.
• Dog wheezing and coughing: This combination can indicate significant airway narrowing or obstruction, requiring prompt veterinary attention.

Puppy Sneezing Causes

Puppy sneezing causes are often similar to adult dogs but can also be linked to their developing immune systems. Puppies are more susceptible to infections like kennel cough and may sneeze more frequently as they explore their environment with their noses. Their smaller airways can also be more easily irritated.

Deciphering the Symptoms: What to Look For

Observing your dog’s behavior and the nature of their sneezing and coughing is crucial for determining the cause.

Sneezing Patterns

• Sudden, Violent Sneezes: Often indicates a foreign object in the nose.
• Frequent, Mild Sneezing: May point to allergies or environmental irritants.
• Sneezing with Nasal Discharge:
  • Clear and watery: Often allergy-related or early viral infection.
  • Thick, yellow, or green: Suggests a bacterial infection.
  • Bloody: Can indicate trauma, a foreign object, or a more serious condition like a tumor or infection.

Coughing Patterns

• Hacking, “Goose Honk” Cough: Classic sign of kennel cough or tracheal collapse.
• Deep, Barking Cough: Can be associated with heart disease or more serious lung issues.
• Wet, Gurgling Cough: May indicate fluid in the lungs (e.g., pneumonia or heart failure).
• Coughing Fits after Exercise or Excitement: Common in brachycephalic breeds or dogs with tracheal issues.
• Coughing at Night: Can be a sign of heart disease or laryngeal irritation.

Other Accompanying Symptoms

When your dog is sneezing and coughing, also watch for:

• Lethargy or decreased energy
• Loss of appetite
• Fever
• Nasal discharge
• Eye discharge
• Difficulty breathing or wheezing (This is a serious sign.)
• Gagging or retching
• Reverse sneezing episodes

Grasping Canine Respiratory Illness

A dog respiratory infection can range from mild to severe. It’s important to recognize the signs and know when to seek veterinary help.

Kennel Cough and Its Nuances

Dog kennel cough symptoms are often the first thing people think of when a dog starts coughing and sneezing. It’s highly contagious and spreads easily in places where dogs interact closely.

• Transmission: Spread through airborne droplets (coughing/sneezing) and direct contact with infected dogs or contaminated surfaces.
• Incubation Period: Typically 2-14 days.
• Duration: Symptoms can last from a few days to several weeks.
• Treatment: Often supportive care, with antibiotics if a secondary bacterial infection is suspected.

When to Seek Veterinary Care

While some causes of sneezing and coughing can be managed at home, it’s crucial to consult a veterinarian in the following situations:

• Severe coughing or difficulty breathing: This is an emergency.
• Lethargy or weakness: Your dog is not acting like themselves.
• Fever: A rectal temperature above 103°F (39.4°C) is considered a fever.
• Thick, colored nasal discharge (yellow, green, or bloody): Indicates a potential infection.
• Loss of appetite or refusal to drink: Dehydration is a serious concern.
• Symptoms worsening or not improving after a few days.
• Your dog is a puppy, senior, or has underlying health conditions: These dogs are more vulnerable.
• You suspect a foreign object is lodged in their airway.

Home Care and Dog Cold Remedies

For mild cases of sneezing and coughing, especially if you suspect allergies or a very mild irritation, some home care can provide relief. However, always prioritize a veterinary diagnosis.

Managing Environmental Irritants

• Air Filtration: Use an air purifier with a HEPA filter in your home, especially in the areas where your dog spends most of their time.
• Regular Cleaning: Vacuum frequently, dust surfaces, and wash your dog’s bedding regularly to minimize dust and allergens.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Opt for natural or pet-safe cleaning products. Keep your dog away from areas where strong cleaning agents are being used.
• Limit Exposure: If you know your dog is sensitive to smoke or strong perfumes, avoid those environments.

Soothing a Dog’s Throat and Airways

• Humidifier: Running a humidifier in the room where your dog sleeps can help moisten the air and soothe irritated airways, similar to dog cold remedies for humans.
• Honey: A small amount of raw honey (about a teaspoon for small dogs, tablespoon for large dogs) mixed with warm water can be a soothing balm for a sore throat and may help suppress a cough. Never give honey to puppies under 1 year old due to the risk of botulism.
• Rest: Ensure your dog gets plenty of rest and avoid strenuous activity that could worsen their cough.
• Hydration: Encourage your dog to drink plenty of fresh water. Warm water can be more appealing.

When Dog Sniffles and Cough are Due to Allergies

• Dietary Changes: If you suspect food allergies, talk to your vet about an elimination diet.
• Medication: Your vet may prescribe antihistamines, corticosteroids, or immunotherapy (allergy shots) for severe allergies.
• Environmental Control: As mentioned above, reducing exposure to environmental allergens is key.

Specifics for Puppy Sneezing Causes

Puppies have delicate systems. If your puppy is sneezing excessively:

• Keep them warm and comfortable.
• Ensure good hygiene in their living space.
• Avoid over-vaccinating or exposing them to sick animals.
• Consult your vet promptly to rule out common puppy illnesses.

Recognizing Dog Reverse Sneezing

Dog reverse sneezing is a common and often alarming event for pet owners, but it’s usually harmless. It’s not true sneezing but rather a spasm of the throat muscles.

• What it sounds like: A sudden, rapid inhalation of air through the nose, producing a snorting, wheezing, or honking sound. It can sound like the dog is choking or having trouble breathing.
• Triggers: Can be caused by excitement, pulling on the leash, inhaled irritants, or a tickle in the throat.
• What to do: Remain calm. Gently massage your dog’s throat or briefly cover their nostrils with your hand to encourage them to swallow, which often stops the episode.
• When to worry: If reverse sneezing is frequent, prolonged, or accompanied by other respiratory distress, consult your vet to rule out underlying issues.

Prevention Strategies

Preventing respiratory problems is always better than treating them.

• Vaccination: Ensure your dog is up-to-date on vaccinations, particularly those protecting against common respiratory viruses like Bordetella (kennel cough), parainfluenza, and adenovirus.
• Avoid Overcrowded Areas: Limit your dog’s exposure to areas with a high concentration of dogs, especially if you don’t know their vaccination status (e.g., dog parks during peak times, doggy daycare if your dog is susceptible).
• Good Hygiene: Wash your hands after handling other dogs and before interacting with your own. Keep your dog’s living environment clean.
• Balanced Diet and Exercise: A healthy lifestyle strengthens your dog’s immune system.
• Regular Vet Check-ups: These can catch potential problems early.

Treatment Options

The treatment for sneezing and coughing depends entirely on the underlying cause.

Veterinary Diagnoses

Your veterinarian will perform a thorough examination, which may include:

• Physical Examination: Listening to the heart and lungs, checking for nasal discharge, examining the throat.
• Diagnostic Tests:
  • Bloodwork: To check for infection and overall health.
  • X-rays (Radiographs): To view the lungs, trachea, and heart for abnormalities.
  • Bronchoscopy: A procedure to visualize the airways directly using a small camera.
  • Cultures: To identify specific bacteria or fungi.
  • Allergy testing: To identify specific allergens.

Common Treatment Approaches

• Antibiotics: Prescribed for bacterial infections.
• Antivirals: Less common for respiratory infections in dogs, but may be used in specific cases.
• Antifungals: For fungal respiratory infections.
• Cough Suppressants: May be used for dry, hacking coughs that are disruptive to sleep.
• Bronchodilators: Medications to open up the airways for dogs with conditions like asthma or bronchitis.
• Anti-inflammatory Medications (e.g., Steroids): To reduce inflammation in the airways, especially for allergic conditions.
• Deworming: If parasites are suspected.
• Surgery: In rare cases, for foreign body removal or tumor resection.

Caring for a Dog with Respiratory Symptoms

Providing a supportive environment is key to your dog’s recovery.

• Quiet Environment: Minimize stress and overexcitement.
• Warmth and Comfort: Ensure your dog has a cozy place to rest.
• Nutritious Food: Offer highly palatable, easy-to-digest food. Warming up wet food can enhance its aroma and encourage eating.
• Monitor Symptoms: Keep a close eye on your dog’s condition and report any changes to your vet.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can my dog’s sneezing and coughing be contagious to humans?

Generally, the common causes of sneezing and coughing in dogs, like kennel cough or allergies, are not contagious to humans. However, it’s always good practice to maintain good hygiene.

Q2: How long does kennel cough last?

Kennel cough symptoms typically resolve within 1-3 weeks. Some dogs may continue to cough intermittently for a bit longer, especially after excitement.

Q3: Can I give my dog human cold medicine?

Absolutely not. Many human medications, like decongestants or cough syrups containing certain ingredients (e.g., xylitol, certain pain relievers), are toxic to dogs and can be fatal. Always consult your veterinarian before giving your dog any medication.

Q4: What are signs of a serious respiratory problem in my dog?

Serious signs include difficulty breathing, rapid or shallow breathing, blue or pale gums, extreme lethargy, high fever, and coughing up blood. These require immediate veterinary attention.

Q5: How can I tell if my dog’s sneezing is just an irritant or something more serious?

If the sneezing is infrequent and resolves quickly with no other symptoms, it’s likely an irritant. If it’s persistent, accompanied by discharge, coughing, lethargy, or difficulty breathing, it warrants a vet visit.

By staying observant, providing appropriate care, and working closely with your veterinarian, you can help your dog overcome their sneezing and coughing episodes and maintain a healthy, happy life.