Causes of Severe Coughing in Dogs

Like humans, dogs often cough when they are sick. Unfortunately, coughing is a symptom of many illnesses in dogs. The type of cough--wet, dry or hacking--can help a veterinarian determine the cause of the cough. It is important to take your dog to see a veterinarian if it develops a cough because it may not be a symptom of a minor illness. Early treatment increases your dog's chances of a full recovery from any condition.

  1. Kennel Cough

    • This illness, also known as bordetella, is one common cause of coughing in dogs. Kennel cough is contagious, and often spreads from dog to dog in confined or poorly ventilated areas, such as kennels. It can spread through the air, through direct contact, or on shared objects such as toys or dishes. A dry cough, accompanied by nasal discharge is the most common symptom of bordetella, but dogs with severe cases can show signs of lethargy and fever as well. Vaccines are available to prevent kennel cough, but they are not always 100 percent effective. Most dogs receive bordetella booster shots once a year.

    Pneumonia

    • A bacterial infection that affects the dog's respiratory system causes canine pneumonia. The lungs and bronchial tubes become inflamed, making it difficult for the dog to breathe. Coughing is one of the primary symptoms of canine pneumonia. Dogs with pneumonia may also wheeze or pant. If you suspect that your dog has canine pneumonia, take it to a vet as soon as possible. A veterinarian can prescribe antibiotics to help you dog recover from the illness.

    Heartworm

    • Dogs are at risk of heartworm if they do not receive regular doses of heartworm medication. More than 70 varieties of mosquito carry the parasite. Worms can grow in the pulmonary arteries or directly in the heart. Coughing is one symptom of heartworm. Other signs include muscle weakness, shortness of breath and poor vision. Fortunately, more than 96 percent of dogs recover completely after receiving heartworm treatment. Treatments include medication and surgery.

    Heart Disease

    • Coughing is one symptom frequently shown by dogs with heart disease. Dogs with heart disease are especially likely to cough at night or when they first wake up in the morning. Because there are different types of heart disease, symptoms can vary. A few common ones include lethargy, loss of appetite and a gray or blue color in the gums. Heart disease can be fatal, so it is important to take your dog to a veterinarian immediately if it shows any of these symptoms. A diagnosis of heart disease is not necessarily a death sentence for your furry friend. With treatment, many dogs continue to live full and happy lives.