Is It Kennel Cough or Something Else? How to Tell
When your dog starts coughing, it can be alarming. While a mild occasional cough can be normal, persistent or severe coughing is a red flag requiring investigation. One of the most talked-about conditions is kennel cough, but coughing can also signal more serious or different underlying issues.
Understanding Kennel Cough
Kennel cough, also known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis, is a highly contagious respiratory condition. It primarily affects dogs in communal environments such as shelters, dog parks, or kennels.
- Primary symptom: dry, hacking or “honking” cough
- Worsens with activity or excitement
- May be accompanied by sneezing and nasal discharge
- Dogs remain generally active and alert
- Low-grade fever or mild lethargy can occur
Symptoms can last one to three weeks and are treated with rest, cough suppressants, or antibiotics in more severe cases.
Other Causes of Canine Coughing
Not all coughing is kennel cough. Several other causes exist:
1. Respiratory Infections
Viruses, bacteria, or parasites can affect the lungs, leading to coughing, fever, nasal discharge, and labored breathing. These may progress to bronchitis or pneumonia and require prompt veterinary treatment.
2. Allergies
Environmental allergens such as pollen, dust, or smoke can cause coughing along with sneezing, itchy eyes, and skin irritation. These are often seasonal and respond to environmental modifications and medications.
3. Heart Disease
Conditions like congestive heart failure or mitral valve disease can lead to chronic coughing, especially at night or when lying down. Symptoms also include fatigue, fluid retention, and labored breathing.
4. Collapsed Trachea
This mainly affects small breeds. The weakening of tracheal cartilage causes a distinctive honking cough. It worsens with pulling on the leash or stress and may require lifelong management with medications or surgery.
5. Chronic Bronchitis
Characterized by a persistent, dry cough that worsens with exercise. It is progressive and needs long-term use of anti-inflammatory drugs and bronchodilators.
6. Foreign Body Inhalation
Items like grass seeds or food particles can become lodged in the airways, leading to sudden, violent coughing. This is an emergency if not resolved quickly.
7. Pneumonia
Infectious or aspiration pneumonia causes a moist, productive cough, fever, and extreme fatigue. Immediate veterinary intervention is vital.
8. Obesity
Excess weight exerts pressure on the respiratory system and predisposes dogs to heart or tracheal issues, leading to a persistent cough.
9. Pulmonary Hypertension
High lung blood pressure results in coughing, poor oxygenation, and sometimes collapse. It’s more common in older or heart-compromised dogs.
10. Distemper
This viral disease involves coughing, fever, runny nose, lethargy, and potentially neurological problems. It’s dangerous and requires vaccination for prevention.
11. Heartworm Disease
Transmitted by mosquitoes, this parasitic disease affects the lungs and heart, causing coughing and exercise fatigue. Prevention is key.
12. Lungworm
Caused by ingestion of slugs or their slime, symptoms include coughing, vomiting, weight loss, and respiratory distress. Deworming is effective.
13. Cancer
Tumors in the lungs or thoracic area can also cause persistent coughing, often with blood or weight loss. Diagnosis typically includes X-rays and biopsy.
14. Reverse Sneezing
Though not dangerous, reverse sneezing can mimic coughing. It results from rapid inhalation of air and usually subsides on its own.
Types of Dog Coughs and What They Indicate
- Dry, hacking: kennel cough, bronchitis
- Honking: collapsed trachea
- Wet: pneumonia, heart failure
- High-pitched gagging: airway obstruction or sore throat
- Night-time coughing: cardiac issues
Warning Signs Requiring Immediate Vet Attention
- Cough lasting several days or worsening
- Breathing difficulty, blue gums
- Coughing up blood/mucus
- Lethargy, appetite loss, fever
- Persistent vomiting, abdominal swelling
Diagnosis and Treatment
Vets use a combination of history, physical exams, and diagnostic tools.
- Blood tests, heartworm screening
- Chest X-rays, ultrasounds
- Fecal exams, urinalysis
- Bronchoscopy or endoscopy
Treatment options depend on the cause and may include:
- Cough suppressants (vet-approved)
- Antibiotics or antivirals
- Anti-inflammatories and bronchodilators
- Dewormers for parasites
- Cardiac medications
- Oxygen therapy and humidification
- Surgical removal of tumors or obstructions
Home Care for Coughing Dogs
- Use a humidifier or steam room
- Keep air clean—avoid smoke or sprays
- Hydrate your dog well
- Switch to a harness instead of a collar
- Let your dog rest and avoid heavy activity
Never give your dog human medications without veterinary advice.
Prevention is Key
- Keep vaccinations up to date
- Use heartworm and parasite preventatives
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Limit exposure to sick dogs
- Avoid airborne irritants
In conclusion, while kennel cough is a common cause of coughing in dogs, many other conditions may be responsible. If your dog has a persistent cough, exhibit any secondary symptoms, or you're unsure of the cause, consult a veterinarian promptly.
