Why Is My Dog Coughing?

Coughing is a normal phenomenon.  Certain types of allergies and infections can lead to coughing in dogs as well as humans. Dogs have a habit of sniffing things, thus they are prone to catch up bacteria which can lead to infections. Germs that are on floors and surroundings can easily affect your dog.

Amongst the various bacteria and viruses that affect dogs, kennel cough is the most common, where the canine falls into persistent coughing. It is highly contagious and spreads through dog to dog contact.  Though it is not a serious issue. If your dog has still not lost its appetite and its temperature is still at bay, there is nothing much to worry.

Still get your dog checked by a vet. Instant relief can be assured by antibiotics doses. If the cough persists along with if your dog gets fever and loses its appetite make sure to get it checked with your vet.

There are many reasons for cough.

• Fungal infections: -Yeast and other fungi can lead to allergic problems in your pooch. These can be easily spread through air and picked up through dirt.
• Heartworms: - this is spread by mosquitoes. Getting your vaccine against this in every six moths will help prevent your dog.
• Distemper  & dirt in the surrounding can easily spread through air. Inhaling his dirt causes irritations in the lungs causing cough.
• Leaky valves & other problems weaken and thicken the heart muscles, putting a pressure on lungs, thereby, blocking the air passage. Proper and controlled diet can help prevent your dog from falling ill.
• Dogs are prone to bronchitis and pneumonia. This can cause excessive coughing in your dog. They also may suck in dirt, grass seeds, or food, which can lead to an infection of the airways. If the cough persists for a long period, it can be case of lung cancer.

If your dog’s cough continuous for long and if it shows other symptoms of tiredness, fever, lack of appetite and other problems, get your dog checked to veterinarian.