How to Help a Dog During an Acute Wheezing Attack

The most probable causes of an acute wheezing attack include allergies, upper respiratory infection and asthma. If your dog has no history of respiratory problems, the acute wheezing attack may be caused by a blockage or irritation in the trachea, such as pollen or seeds. If the wheezing attack impedes your dog̵7;s breathing, seek urgent veterinary assistance. If it is not severe, assist your dog in coping with the attack.

  1. Loosen the Collar

    • An overly tight or restrictive collar can cause breathing difficulties leading to an acute wheezing attack. If the collar is not the cause, it can certainly compound any breathing problems your dog is experiencing. If your dog begins to hack, cough or wheeze, gently loosen the collar. If it is a buckle collar, it may take a few seconds to unfasten it, so be careful not to alarm the dog as you wrestle with it. If possible, completely remove the collar.

    Open the Windows

    • Allergies to airborne irritants such as pollen, household cleaning products, perfume and dust can cause an acute wheezing attack. Increase the flow of fresh air to your dog̵7;s environment by opening the windows, or if possible the door to the garden. Encourage your dog into the garden, but don̵7;t fuss over him. If the household air is rich with irritants and has caused the wheezing, the fresh air typically enables your dog to expel the irritants naturally.

    Run a Hot Shower

    • Dogs suffering acute wheezing attacks caused by sinus or chest infections require humidity, rather than fresh air. The quickest way to do this is to run a hot shower, encourage your dog into the bathroom and close the door. The steam increases air humidity, which typically loosens up any phlegm or mucus blocking the airways. Don̵7;t leave your dog alone in the bathroom.

    Check for Obstructions

    • In instances where the wheezing is sudden and unexplained, for example if your dog has no known breathing-related conditions, check the mouth for blockages and swallowed foreign objects. Gently open the jaws and look as far back as you can see. Look out for grass, seeds, bits of lint or wool and hair balls. If safe to do so, gently remove the obstruction. If you can̵7;t safely remove the blockage, take your dog to a vet immediately.

    Sooth Your Dog

    • It̵7;s essential that you act as normally as possible, otherwise your dog will sense your distress and become more agitated. Stroke your dog and reassure him. By nature, acute wheezing attacks have a rapid onset but are brief. Once the wheezing attack has finished, give your dog a food treat or toy.