Dogs often cough or sneeze because they have something stuck in their throats, or an air pollutant is irritating their nasal passages. Chronic sneezing and coughing could be signs of a more serious medical issue.
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Considerations
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Common causes of both coughing and sneezing in dogs include allergies, rhinovirus, respiratory tract infection, kennel cough and Streptococci.
Time Frame
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A dog that coughs and sneezes occasionally does not usually require medical attention. If the coughing and sneezing lasts more than 24 hours, a vet trip is in order.
Significance
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If the coughing and sneezing becomes severe, the dog needs to see a vet. Repeated coughing and sneezing, or the presence of a fever, indicates an underlying medical condition.
Prevention/Solution
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Yearly vaccinations protect dogs against kennel cough and other diseases that cause upper respiratory tract infections. Dogs commonly catch cold-like illnesses from boarding facilities or shelters, so keep your dog away from these places if possible.
Warning
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Keep your dog away from other dogs as canine cold viruses are highly contagious.
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