Signs & Symptoms of a Dog With Asthma

Asthma is relatively rare in dogs and much more common in cats. However, when a dog does suffer an asthma attack, pet guardians need to recognize what is happening to their pet and how to help him. Asthma occurs when the airway is obstructed because the passages to the lungs are filled with mucous. This causes the bronchi, the air passages into the lungs, to go into spasms--making it difficult for your pet to breathe.

  1. Age

    • Asthma can occur in pets of any age, but it occurs most often in young and middle-aged pets.

    Breeds

    • Certain breeds are especially prone to allergies, respiratory problems and asthma. These include the Boston Terrier, Bulldog, English Toy Spaniel, French Bulldog, Japanese Chin, Pekingese, Pug, Shih Tzu, Affenpinscher and Brussels Griffon.

    Breathing Difficulty

    • The primary symptom of asthma is coughing. Some pet guardians also report wheezing and sneezing. Occasionally, owners report respiratory distress with pets breathing with their mouths open and having purple gums and purple tongues. If this occurs, it is an emergency and you should get your dog to a veterinarian immediately.
      If your dog is having an asthma attack, he will be making a noticeable effort to breathe. He may look dazed or fearful, and/or paw at his face. Many dogs panic when they have an attack.
      Generally during an asthma attack, which can last up to 30 minutes, a dog remains standing.

    Other Symptoms

    • Most dogs are symptom-free, except when they are having an asthma attack. However, some dogs may become lethargic and stop eating, meaning they suffer weight loss

    Triggers

    • Asthma can be caused by second-hand smoke, litter dust, air pollution and certain fragrances. Dogs with certain allergies may have an asthma attack triggered by particular foods, food additives, preservatives and artificial colors. Nervousness is attributed as a factor in some asthma attacks.
      Some holistic veterinarians connect asthma in dogs to multiple vaccinations and commercial pet foods, believing they weaken the pet's immune system and make her more susceptible to allergies.
      In some cases, parasites, bacterial or viral infections, and even cancer can be at the root of an asthma attack.