Every dog-parent has probably observed their pooch coughing from time to time. Once you know what it sounds like when Fido coughs the initial surprise and discomfort usually wears off. However, for some dog moms and dads the cough is persistent. What follows is worry and concern until an explanation or diagnosis can be given. In an effort to help dog parents understand what may be causing their dog’s coughing, NuVet has put together a little bit of an explanation. Keep reading if you would like to learn more.
Main reasons dogs cough:
- Lung problems
Just like their human companions. Dogs, too, can experience lung problems. This can be due to any number of things included, but not limited to, inhaling food, dust, dirt or a foreign material. Dogs can also get pneumonia or bronchitis, which can result in coughing. Some causes may be more serious but this is usually rare. If concerned see your vet right away.
- Heart Disease
Also like their human family, dogs can acquire heart disease. Valve and other issues can weaken the heart by putting strain on the heart muscle and lungs, which can result in a persistent cough. You’ll need a trip to your vet along with tests to confirm. Oftentimes dogs with heart disease can be treated with medications and dietary changes.
- Heartworms
Very easy to prevent, dogs can develop heartworms through an infected mosquito, which is why preventatives are recommended and available through one’s vet during the warmer months of spring and summer when mosquitoes are more active.
- Weakened immune system
If not receiving proper nutrition it is possible for dogs to develop a weakened immune system, which can result in susceptibility to bugs and other illnesses that may cause canine coughing. Feeding your pooch a high quality diet, which includes a nutritious supplement such as NuVet Plus, may help prevent this from occurring.
- Distemper
An airborne virus, distemper if left untreated can be serious. Ill dogs experience a dry, hacking cough and a fever or 103 degrees or more. Eye and nasal discharge often occurs. Annual vaccinations can prevent distemper.
- Fungal infections
Fungus and yeast can be inhaled by your dog, usually via something in your backyard or on a walk – like dirt, for example. Most fungal infections are easily treated by a prescription from your veterinarian.
- Allergies
Just like humans, dogs can experience allergies. Inhalant allergies, which usually result in a moist cough, can occur in pups. If you can determine the trigger, avoid it or remove your dog. Your dog’s symptoms should dissipate when they are away from the allergen. Some dogs have experienced allergy relief by taking certain vitamin supplements, such as NuVet Plus. You can read some of these allergy-relief success stories on NuVet Reviews.
- Kennel Cough
Fairly common, kennel cough can be acquired anywhere else dogs are present. Dog parks, groomers, veterinary offices and doggie day cares can all be places where your dog may pick it up. Very contagious, kennel cough is highly treatable. A trip to your vet will help rule out this condition and will also determine if your dog requires antibiotics or other medications.
Fortunately most coughing your dog may experience is usually harmless or something that is easily treatable after a quick trip to the vet. Good nutrition, like treating dog coughs, can be simple when a high quality nutritional supplement like NuVet Plus is included in your dog’s daily diet. Comprised of human-grade ingredients and manufactured in an FDA registered lab, dog parents can feel confident in knowing their dogs are receiving the best in dietary supplements. Thrilled with the results they have observed in their dogs since taking NuVet Plus, happy dog parents often share with us how this unique vitamin has changed their dogs for the better. If you would like to read their experiences, visit NuVet Reviews.