Kennel Cough Wheezing in Dogs: What You Need to Know

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Posted Oct 19, 2024

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Kennel cough wheezing in dogs can be a distressing condition for both pets and their owners. Kennel cough is a common upper respiratory infection that affects dogs, often caused by the Bordetella bronchiseptica bacteria.

Symptoms of kennel cough can vary, but wheezing is a common one. According to research, kennel cough wheezing can be caused by the narrowing of airways, which can lead to a high-pitched sound when your dog breathes out.

The sound of kennel cough wheezing can be quite distinctive, often described as a harsh, hacking cough. Some dogs may also exhibit a blue-tinged tongue or lips, a sign of low oxygen levels.

Kennel cough wheezing can be treated with antibiotics, cough suppressants, and supportive care, such as hydration and rest.

What Is Kennel Cough Wheezing?

Kennel cough wheezing is a high-pitched whistling noise that can be a symptom of respiratory distress in dogs.

Wheezing is caused by something blocking the normal flow of air in and out of the airway, and it's often accompanied by other symptoms like mucus, coughing, panting, or gagging.

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The classic symptom of kennel cough is a persistent, forceful cough that sounds like a goose honk, but wheezing can be a distinct whistling sound.

If your dog's symptoms do not get better within a few days, you should consult your vet, as coughing and wheezing can indicate serious issues in your pup.

What Is Wheezing?

Wheezing is a high-pitched whistling noise caused by something blocking the normal flow of air in and out of the airway. This sound can be a challenge to identify, especially in pets.

A dog may also experience mucus, a whistling sound in their lungs, coughing, panting, or gagging in addition to wheezing. These symptoms can be a sign of respiratory distress.

Wheezing is a physical finding that a vet can identify in a physical examination.

Dogs with Wheezing Symptoms

Dogs with wheezing symptoms can be a cause for concern, and it's essential to identify the underlying issue. Wheezing is a high-pitched whistling noise caused by something blocking the normal flow of air in and out of the airway.

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If your dog is wheezing, it's crucial to record their symptoms as they're happening, as this will be beneficial for a vet to form a proper diagnosis. This can help your vet understand the severity of the issue and develop an effective treatment plan.

Wheezing can be a symptom of respiratory distress, and it's often accompanied by other symptoms such as mucus, coughing, panting, or gagging. If your dog's symptoms do not get better within a few days, you should consult your vet.

Kennel cough is a common respiratory issue in dogs, and it can cause wheezing. The incubation period for kennel cough is between two and 10 days, and the most common symptom is a loud cough that sounds like hacking or honking.

If your dog has nasal discharge, is breathing rapidly, refuses to eat, or seems lethargic, you should take them back to the veterinarian right away. Serious cases of kennel cough can lead to pneumonia if left untreated.

If this caught your attention, see: Canine Lupus Symptoms

Causes and Triggers

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A dog coughing and wheezing can be a result of something small and relatively easy to fix with a veterinary consultation.

Some common causes of kennel cough wheezing include respiratory infections, allergies, and irritants like smoke or pollution.

A serious health condition, such as heart disease or lung cancer, can also cause a dog to cough and wheeze.

Causes of

Dogs can cough and wheeze for a variety of reasons, and it's essential to identify the underlying cause to provide the right treatment.

Kennel cough, a contagious respiratory infection, is a common cause of coughing and wheezing in dogs. It's characterized by a persistent, forceful cough that sounds like a goose honk, and can be accompanied by symptoms like sneezing, a runny nose, or eye discharge.

Upper respiratory infections, similar to the common cold or flu in humans, can also lead to coughing and wheezing in dogs. These infections typically include symptoms like coughing, sneezing, and difficulty breathing.

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Fungal infections, such as yeast and other fungi, can be picked up in dirt or through the air and cause a dog to cough. Prescription medications can help alleviate the symptoms.

Heartworms, spread by mosquitoes, can also cause coughing in dogs. Monthly medication or an injection that lasts 6 or 12 months can prevent the disease.

Dogs can also cough due to heart disease, which can weaken and thicken the heart muscle, putting pressure on the lungs and airways. Medication, along with a suitable diet and exercise, can bring relief.

In some cases, lung problems, such as bronchitis or pneumonia, can cause a dog to cough. Antibiotics can help, but in rare cases, lung cancer may be the diagnosis.

A collapsed trachea, which affects the windpipes, can also lead to persistent coughing, wheezing, and labored breathing. This condition is most common in small dog breeds and is often associated with being overweight.

Allergies

Allergies are a common cause of coughing and wheezing in dogs, triggered by substances like pollen, mold, dust mites, and cigarette smoke.

A dog can be allergic to a myriad of things, but some of the most common substances that cause coughing and wheezing are pollen, mold, dust mites, and cigarette smoke.

Treatment and Prevention

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Kennel cough wheezing can be a distressing condition for dogs and their owners. Kennel cough is contagious, so if you suspect your dog has it, keep them away from other animals.

The treatment for kennel cough involves medications to speed recovery or minimize symptoms during the course of infection. These may include antibiotics that target the Bordetella bacteria, cough suppressants, and anti-inflammatory medicines.

Keeping your dog in a well-humidified area can help minimize the coughing. Using a harness instead of a collar, especially for dogs that strain against a leash, can also be beneficial.

You should follow up with your veterinarian if your dog doesn't improve within the expected amount of time. If your dog shows symptoms of rapid breathing, not eating, or listlessness, contact your vet right away.

Preventing kennel cough through vaccination is a good idea, especially if your dog goes to doggy daycare or gets boarded often. The bordetella vaccine can be administered orally, intranasally, or injected.

The bordetella vaccine typically requires two separate doses two to four weeks apart, followed by a booster every six months to a year. You should speak to your veterinarian to determine which vaccine is right for your pet and how often they should receive it.

When to See the Vet

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If your dog's cough lasts more than a week or worsens, it's time to see the vet. You should also be concerned if they seem extra tired or have a fever.

A normal body temperature for a dog is between 100 to 102.5 degrees F. If your dog has a fever, it's a sign that something is amiss.

If your dog won't eat, it's a red flag that needs to be addressed. Your vet may ask you questions like: Does your dog have trouble breathing between coughing fits?

You should also be prepared to answer questions about your dog's behavior, such as when they cough, and what it sounds like. Is the cough dry or moist? Does it sound like they're about to vomit?

Here are some key signs that warrant a vet visit:

  • Cough lasts more than a week or worsens
  • Seem extra tired
  • Have a fever
  • Won't eat
  • Have other health problems

Keep in mind that your vet will examine your dog and run tests to determine the cause of the cough. The treatment will depend on the underlying issue.

Dog Health and Care

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If your dog has kennel cough, you may notice a persistent, forceful cough that sounds like a goose honk.

A physical exam and history of exposure are usually enough to diagnose kennel cough, but your veterinarian may run other tests if your dog is showing severe symptoms.

To protect your dog from kennel cough, make sure they're up to date on their recommended vaccines, including adenovirus and parainfluenza, and consider a Bordetella vaccination if they're around other dogs.

In an outbreak situation, try to avoid dog group contact, including dog parks, daycare, and boarding facilities, and wash your hands regularly after petting another dog.

Here are some key things to look out for when your dog has kennel cough:

  • Incubation period: 2-10 days
  • Classic symptom: persistent, forceful cough
  • Additional symptoms: nasal discharge, rapid breathing, refusal to eat, lethargy

If your dog is showing severe symptoms, take them to the veterinarian right away, as serious cases of kennel cough can lead to pneumonia if left untreated.

Dogs: Symptoms and Behaviors

Dogs with kennel cough will often display a persistent, forceful cough that sounds like a goose honk. This is the classic symptom of kennel cough.

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The incubation period for kennel cough is between two and 10 days, so it's essential to be aware of the symptoms during this time. If your dog is showing signs of illness, take them to the vet right away.

Additional symptoms of kennel cough include sneezing, a runny nose, or eye discharge. Some dogs may also exhibit nasal discharge, rapid breathing, or lethargy.

If your dog is experiencing these symptoms, keep them isolated from other dogs to prevent spreading the virus. You should also avoid exposing them to cigarette smoke or other irritating fumes while their respiratory tract heals.

Support care is crucial for your dog's recovery, so make sure they're eating, drinking, and in a stress-free environment. Using a humidifier, vaporizer, or steam from a shower can also help ease their irritated breathing passages.

Dogs' Life Expectancy

Dogs' life expectancy is affected by various factors, including their health conditions. Kennel cough, for example, can lead to pneumonia complications.

In some cases, kennel cough can be severe and require hospitalization. A dog may need to stay in the hospital for a longer recovery.

Dogs with kennel cough may remain infectious for up to 14 days after their symptoms clear up.

Dog Wheezing FAQs

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Dog wheezing can be a concerning sound for dog owners.

A wheezing dog may be experiencing respiratory issues, such as bronchitis or asthma.

Some common causes of dog wheezing include allergies, heart disease, and obesity.

If your dog is wheezing, it's essential to consult with a veterinarian to determine the underlying cause.

A veterinarian may perform a physical examination, take a complete medical history, and run diagnostic tests to determine the cause of the wheezing.

In some cases, dog wheezing can be a sign of a more serious underlying condition, such as heartworm disease.

Treatment for dog wheezing will depend on the underlying cause, but may include medication, lifestyle changes, or in severe cases, surgery.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you know if kennel cough turns into pneumonia?

Look for labored breathing, a persistent cough, high fever, and nasal discharge, which can indicate pneumonia has developed. If you notice these symptoms, seek veterinary attention immediately

Tracy Schaefer

Assigning Editor

Tracy Schaefer is a seasoned Assigning Editor with a keen eye for compelling content. With a passion for storytelling, she has curated a diverse range of articles that cater to the interests of readers worldwide. Her areas of expertise include pet care, with a notable focus on Rottweiler Care.