Breathing Treatments for Dogs

Dogs, just like humans, can develop severe breathing problems. Some of the symptoms are coughing, sneezing and/or raspy breathing. Breathing problems can be caused by something as minor as bacterial infections, respiratory viruses or allergies. Some of the more serious causes are heart failure, cancer or lung trauma. Breathing problems usually affect short-nosed dogs like English and French bulldogs, and pugs. These breathing problems are treatable with the correct medication and care.

Things You'll Need

  • Prescribed medication
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Instructions

    • 1

      Check for possible symptoms. Knowing the symptoms of your dog's breathing problems can help you in identifying that there is a problem and seeking out treatments. Some of the other important symptoms are nasal discharge, excessive panting, labored breathing, rapid breathing and crouching posture with your dog's elbows pulled away from its body.

    • 2

      Use various forms of treatment. Your veterinarian will usually prescribe antibiotics and ask you to give them to your dog. The antibiotics will clear up any infections that your dog has. Breathing problems from allergens are treated by antihistamines, and/or sometimes steroids, both of which are prescribed by your veterinarian

    • 3

      Treat your dog after treatment. Dogs suffering from viral or bacterial illnesses will need daily medication until the infection has passed. Your veterinarian will give you the dosage and instructions on how often you have to give the medication to your dog. In addition, some veterinarians will ask you to limit your dog's physical activity. Treatments usually last up to two or three weeks.