Why is my dog Coughing

Introduction

Coughing in dogs is a common symptom that can be indicative of various underlying health issues. Whether it's a subtle hack or a full-blown paroxysmal cough, knowing the causes and consequences of dog coughing can help owners take prompt action to prevent the progression of disease and ensure their furry friend receives proper care.

The Importance of Recognizing Coughing in Dogs

As a responsible dog owner, being able to identify when your canine companion is experiencing health issues is crucial. One of the most obvious indicators of illness or discomfort in dogs is coughing. Like humans, dogs also experience respiratory problems and upper airway irritation leading to persistent or severe coughing.

Recognizing when your dog's cough has become more than just a passing symptom can mean the difference between a simple solution and a deeper medical concern that requires veterinary intervention.

Understanding Coughing

To better address dog coughing, it's essential first to understand the differences in canine respiratory systems from our own. Dog coughs can range widely in severity and cause, from a mild wheeze to paroxysmal or severe lung diseases like pneumonia.

Canine Respiratory System Basics

Unlike humans, dogs primarily breathe through their noses (about 80% with adults), whereas our nostrils make up only around 3-4% of human inspiratory volume. Moreover, the structure and musculature connecting the trachea to the bronchi in dogs are shorter compared to similar respiratory pathways in humans.

Since most dog coughs involve damage or inflammation directly affecting these critical components within a canine respiratory system – like foreign irritants or infectious viruses leading to inflammation in both noses and tracheal areas, for example – recognizing signs early is beneficial when treating infections of this nature.

Common Coughing Symptoms

Common symptoms experienced by dogs experiencing coughing include:

• Dry, hacking hacks, usually indicating irritation stemming from allergens or irritants.
• Paroxysmal coughing characterized by a sudden, intense inhalative effort.