Like people, canines can have respiratory problems, too. Now, in dogs, this is a very big problem because they often rely on their keen sense of smell to survive. Of course, they would not need that much in a domestic setting but having a respiratory ailment can still be hard on the dog.
- It is caused by problems, such as narrowing or spasm, of the bronchi or trachea.
- It can be caused by an asthma attack when an allergen causes the respiratory tubes to become inflamed and narrow.
Dog Wheezing and Coughing
- Oftentimes, wheezing is accompanied by coughing. Many dog owners find it weird that their dogs are coughing but this is really a sign of an ailment. Thus, it is a good idea to bring the dog to a vet as soon as possible.
Dog Wheezing Cough
- If the dog is experiencing wheezing cough, it is a good idea to try to keep it as comfortable as possible. Strenuous activities should be minimized to keep the dog from straining to breathe.
- Treatment should be provided as soon as possible.
Why is My Dog Wheezing
- There are many reasons why a dog is wheezing.
- Congenital abnormalities.
- Canine respiratory problems.
- Infections and parasites.
- Allergies and asthma. Dogs can get allergies and asthma, too. These allergens could be anything from dust to pollen to smoke.
- Providing quick is essential in keeping the dog from suffering.
- Determining the cause of ailment will help in determining the proper medications or remedies to be given.
- Parasites are treated with corresponding dewormers and other medications.
- Some antihistamines might be helpful in treating asthma and allergies.
- Humidifying the air where the dog is staying can help solve breathing problems and help the dog breathe easily.
Respiratory Allergies in Dogs
Dogs have a keen sense of smell and often rely on their noses to check out things and stuff that they are curious about. Their sense of smell helps in their survival, especially in the wild. Thus, a dog with respiratory allergies will surely have a difficult time.
Respiratory Allergies in Dogs
- Respiratory allergies are the most common. The following are some of the symptoms that indicate respiratory allergies:
- Nasal discharge
- Skin conditions such constant itching, eczema, atopic dermatitis, etc.
- Respiratory allergies are caused by certain allergens that act as triggers. These triggers vary among dogs, with some dogs being more sensitive to certain allergens than others.
- Treatment options are as follows:
- Anti-itch shampoos, conditioners, powder, and medications for respiratory allergies that manifest as itchiness of the skin.
- Dogs react differently to medications so that it can be difficult to treat the symptoms of allergies. Thus, it is best to identify the triggers and keep the dog away from them. Still antihistamines and corticosteroids may be administered, if necessary.
Respiratory Distress in Dogs
- This condition is also known as Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).
- Respiratory distress or ARDS is an ailment or symptom of an ailment that causes severe respiratory difficulty in dogs. This is characterized by very difficult respiratory efforts or physically labored breathing.
- The reason for the labored breathing is inflammation of the lungs. This might also be caused by fluids (i.e., blood) that enter the lungs, causing it to collapse.
- Other symptoms are:
- Blue discoloration of the skin
- Liquid discharge from the nostrils
- Very high fever
- The root cause should be immediately identified and corrected to save the dog.
- Oxygen therapy and surgery may be necessary.