One day when I was with my dog, she made a type of wheezing sound. It was only that one time, but it made me wonder, can dogs have asthma? As it turns out, asthma in dogs is a thing.
This post will look at canine asthma, what can cause it, signs and symptoms to look out for, how canine asthma is diagnosed, and treatment options available should your dog have it.
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Related: Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds For People With Allergies And Asthma, Best Air Purifier For Dog Allergies
Disclaimer: This post is meant to be informative and should not be taken as medical advice. Talk to your veterinarian regarding any health concerns you may have for your dog.
What Is Asthma In Dogs?
Asthma in dogs, also known as allergic bronchitis, can affect your pup’s respiratory system. This condition causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to breathing difficulties.
What Are The Causes Of Asthma In Dogs?
Environmental triggers play a significant role in canine asthma. Your dog may react to allergens like dust, pollen, or smoke.
Household chemicals, including air fresheners and cleaning products, can also trigger asthma attacks.
Parasitic infections, particularly heartworm disease, can contribute to asthma-like symptoms in dogs.
Some dogs may have a genetic predisposition to asthma, making them more susceptible to respiratory issues.
Obesity can exacerbate asthma symptoms, putting extra strain on your dog’s respiratory system.
Stress and anxiety may also trigger asthma attacks in some dogs.
What Are Signs And Symptoms Of Asthma In Dogs?
Recognizing asthma symptoms in your dog is important for timely treatment.
Watch for persistent coughing, especially during or after physical activity.
You might notice your dog wheezing or making whistling sounds while breathing.
Rapid breathing or panting without exertion can be a sign of respiratory distress. Some dogs may pant with their mouth wide open.
You may notice an increase of phlegm or mucus.
In severe cases, your dog’s tongue or gums may turn bluish due to lack of oxygen.
Look out for lethargy or reluctance to exercise, as these can indicate breathing difficulties.
During an asthma attack, your dog may extend their neck to open airways and breathe easier.
How Is Canine Asthma Diagnosed?
If you suspect your dog has asthma, talk to your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis. They will start with a physical examination and review of your dog’s medical history.
Your veterinarian may recommend chest X-rays to check for lung inflammation or other respiratory issues.
Blood tests can help rule out other conditions that mimic asthma symptoms. Heartworm is one such condition that has similar symptoms and your veterinarian may order a heartworm test to be sure that is not the cause.
In some cases, a bronchoscopy (a thin tube used to look at the inside of the lungs) might be necessary to examine your dog’s airways directly.
Allergy testing can identify specific triggers causing your dog’s asthma attacks.
Your veterinarian may also perform a bronchoalveolar lavage (obtaining a fluid sample from the lungs) to analyze the cells from your dog’s lungs. This procedure helps confirm the diagnosis and determine the severity of inflammation.
What Treatment Options Are Available For Dog Asthma?
Dogs diagnosed with asthma have several treatment options available to help manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. These strategies aim to reduce inflammation, open airways, and prevent asthma attacks.
Medications And Inhalers
Veterinarians often prescribe corticosteroids to reduce airway inflammation in asthmatic dogs. These can be given orally or via inhalers or nebulizers. Nebulizers can convert liquid medication into a mist that your dog is able to inhale. This allows for the medication to reach your dog’s lungs sooner than if they take a pill.
Bronchodilators like albuterol may be used to relax airway muscles and improve breathing during attacks.
Inhaled medications are typically administered using specially designed spacers and masks for dogs. Your veterinarian will demonstrate proper technique for using these devices.
Some dogs may benefit from combination inhalers containing both corticosteroids and bronchodilators.
Long-term medication plans are tailored to each dog’s specific needs and severity of symptoms.
Your dog may experience some side effects to these medications which can include weight gain and increased drinking and urination to muscle loss and an increased likelihood of developing infections.
Make sure to follow your veterinarian’s instructions for how to take the medications properly.
Managing Asthma Triggers
Identifying and minimizing exposure to asthma triggers is important for managing your dog’s condition. Common triggers include:
- Dust and pollen.
- Cigarette smoke.
- Strong perfumes or air fresheners.
- Household cleaning products.
Use air purifiers with HEPA filters in your home to reduce airborne irritants. Vacuum frequently using a machine with a HEPA filter. Avoid smoking around your dog and limit their exposure to strong odors or fumes.
Regular grooming can help remove allergens from your dog’s coat. Consider using hypoallergenic bedding and washing it frequently in hot water.
Emergency Care For Asthma Attacks
Be prepared for asthma emergencies by having a plan in place. Keep your dog’s rescue inhaler easily accessible. Learn to recognize signs of an asthma attack, such as:
- Excessive coughing or wheezing.
- Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing.
- Blue-tinged gums or tongue.
During an attack, stay calm and administer the rescue inhaler as directed by your veterinarian. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek immediate veterinary care.
Create an emergency kit with your dog’s medications and your veterinarian’s contact information. Familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest 24-hour veterinary clinic in case of severe attacks.
Living With An Asthmatic Dog
Managing an asthmatic dog requires consistent care and environmental adjustments. You’ll need to establish a daily routine and modify your home to reduce triggers.
Daily Management And Care
Administer medications as prescribed by your veterinarian. Give inhaled medications using a spacer device with a mask designed for dogs. Monitor your dog’s breathing patterns and energy levels daily. Keep a log of asthma attacks to identify potential triggers.
Exercise your dog regularly, but avoid strenuous activities during high pollen or pollution days.
Provide plenty of fresh water to keep your dog hydrated.
Groom your dog frequently to remove allergens from their coat.
Schedule regular check-ups with your veterinarian to assess your dog’s condition and adjust treatment if needed.
Environmental Considerations
Remove carpets and opt for hard flooring to reduce allergen accumulation. Use HEPA air purifiers in rooms where your dog spends the most time.
Vacuum and dust your home frequently with a HEPA vacuum cleaner. Wash your dog’s bedding weekly in hot water.
Avoid using strong-smelling cleaners, air fresheners, or perfumes around your dog.
Keep your home smoke-free and limit exposure to fireplaces or wood-burning stoves.
During high pollen seasons, wipe your dog’s paws and coat after walks to remove allergens.
Consider using an air conditioner to filter outdoor air and maintain consistent indoor humidity levels.
Just like humans, dogs too can develop asthma. It may seem scary at first, but with proper and consistent care and maintaining a home free of triggers for your dog, your pup can live a normal life.
For more information on asthma in dogs, please see PetMd and ASPCA.
Please check out our other posts on Health, Indoor, Outdoor, and Travel accessories for your dog, as well as Reviews of various products and travel destinations.