Coughing is a common problem in dogs that can cause concern for their owners. Dogs cough usually do not warrant worry and may occur for simple reasons like throat irritation or allergies, but in some cases, it may signal more serious illnesses such as respiratory infections, heart diseases, or even cancer. Being aware of the most common causes of coughing in dogs can help dog owners take timely necessary treatment actions and maintain their pet’s health. In this article from the Central Veterinary Hospital, we will examine the types, causes, and treatments for coughing in dogs.
What does dog coughing sound like?
Coughing in dogs is not a particularly strange or unusual topic, but sometimes these coughs may have concerning reasons. Dog coughing is usually heard as a dry, harsh sound or similar to a deep sneeze, sometimes accompanied by a “honking” sound. A dog may cough briefly and occasionally or continuously and severely, depending on the underlying cause. 
Types of dog cough
The four main types of cough you might hear from your dog are:
- Deep and dry cough: A deep and dry cough in dogs can be related to allergies. In more serious and persistent cases, it may indicate chronic bronchitis.
- Deep and honking cough: This type of cough can be related to an issue in the upper respiratory system and the dog’s upper airways.
- Wet and productive cough: This type of cough often indicates the presence of mucus in the dog’s respiratory system. Wet coughs arise from the accumulation of moisture and bacteria in the lungs and lower airways.
- Low-pitched cough: If something is stuck in your dog’s throat, it may produce a sound similar to this cough.
Causes of coughing in dogs
There are various reasons for dog coughing, which we will address below.
Kennel cough
Kennel cough is the most common infectious cause of coughing in dogs, especially if you hear a deep, dry cough that sounds like a honk. This disease is highly contagious and can spread to the lungs, resulting in pneumonia. Therefore, if you have other dogs at home, they should also be examined. This disease can largely be prevented with the Bordetella vaccine.
Chronic bronchitis
Chronic bronchitis is a respiratory disease characterized by long-term inflammation of the airways. Dogs suffering from chronic bronchitis usually have a dry, severe cough that worsens with exertion or excitement and increases in severity over time.
- For more information, you can read the article What is bronchitis in dogs.
Allergies
Allergies are hypersensitivity reactions of the immune system to substances in the environment known as allergens. When a dog is exposed to these substances, the immune system may become sensitized and may overreact in future exposures.
Canine cough
Canine Influenza (Canine Influenza)
Dogs can also contract influenza and cough as a result. Although this disease is contagious among dogs, it is not transmissible between humans and dogs. Some veterinarians recommend the influenza vaccine to prevent this disease.
Reverse sneezing
Although reverse sneezing in dogs does not mean coughing, many people confuse its sound with that of a cough. Reverse sneezing happens when something irritates the nasal passages or throat of the dog. Occasional reverse sneezing is usually harmless, but if it becomes frequent or severe, or if you notice symptoms like abnormal nasal discharge, facial swelling, or asymmetry (such as bulges in the eyes or sinuses), consult a veterinarian immediately.
Pulmonary hypertension
Pulmonary hypertension refers to high blood pressure in the lungs of dogs, which reduces blood flow and oxygen transfer to the lungs. High blood pressure in the pulmonary arteries causes the dog to struggle to receive enough oxygen. This problem may arise from chronic lung disease, heart diseases, or conditions that cause blood clots in the pulmonary arteries (pulmonary thromboembolism).
Heartworm disease
Heartworm disease is a serious and fatal condition in dogs caused by the parasite Dirofilaria immitis, which can lead to dog coughing. Heartworms are transmitted when a mosquito bites an infected dog, takes the larval form of the parasite, and then bites another dog, transferring the larvae. The larvae migrate to the heart and lungs of the newly infected dog, where they mature into adult worms. Their presence causes inflammation that can lead to coughing and potentially fatal damage to the heart and lungs. 
Foreign object lodged in the throat
Sometimes, dogs inhale foreign materials or objects that get lodged in their airways. The natural reaction of the body is to try to cough it out. If this attempt is unsuccessful, the object must be removed by a veterinarian using an endoscope or surgery.
Laryngeal paralysis
Laryngeal paralysis in dogs is a condition in which the muscles and nerves that control the larynx (voice box) do not function properly, leading to disruption in the opening and closing of the larynx. This problem causes coughing, noisy breathing, and difficulty breathing in dogs.
Cancer
Coughing can be one of the first signs of lung cancer, cancers of other parts of the respiratory tract, heart, or surrounding tissues.
Yes. Treatment for this disease usually involves surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or palliative care.
Esophagitis
Esophagitis is a condition where the esophagus becomes inflamed and stomach acid moves from the stomach to the esophagus, irritating its lining. This problem can be caused by gastrointestinal discomfort, certain foods, prolonged anesthesia, and the consumption of certain medications, especially doxycycline.
Tumor in the Larynx and Trachea
Tumors in the larynx and trachea of dogs are a serious issue that can present as either benign or malignant (cancerous). Tumors or masses that grow in the larynx or trachea are rare but can disrupt the ability to breathe, swallow, eat, and drink, leading to coughing in dogs.
Inhaling Irritants Indoors
Household sprays and airborne irritants can cause dog coughing. However, not every dog exposed to these irritants will cough, but dogs with pre-existing respiratory issues such as bronchitis or those that are more sensitive to specific triggers may be more prone to it.
Lung Lobe Torsion
A dog’s lung can twist and turn, a condition known as lung lobe torsion. In this condition, the lung rotates on itself and blocks the airway, resulting in coughing. This issue is more common in dogs with heart disease. 
Treatment for Dog Coughing
Treating dog coughing depends on its underlying cause and may include some of the following treatments:
- Antibiotics (for bacterial infections)
- Antiparasitic medications (for parasitic infections)
- Steroids (for inflammatory causes)
- Bronchodilators, including inhalers (for inflammatory causes)
- Cardiac medications (for heart diseases)
- Endoscopy or surgery (for foreign bodies or masses)
- Cough suppressants
- Humidifiers or nebulizers
- Oral or intravenous fluids
- Immune system booster supplements
Remember, never give your dog cough syrup or over-the-counter human medications. Only use medications that a veterinarian prescribes for your dog.
Home Remedies for Dog Coughing
In cases where coughing is mild and a serious condition has not been diagnosed, home remedies for dog coughing may be used:
- Use of honey
- Steam or keeping the environment humid
- Adequate rest in a calm and warm environment
- Ensuring adequate fluids
- Soft and moist food
- Avoiding irritants (cigarettes or chemicals)
If your dog’s cough worsens or persists, these treatments may not be effective and you should see a veterinarian immediately. 
Conclusion
Coughing in dogs is usually not a cause for concern. However, when dog coughing becomes a persistent or recurrent issue, it can be a sign of an underlying illness. If your dog has developed a persistent cough or coughs in a certain way, it’s essential to consult a veterinarian to rule out the possibility of a more serious problem. For treating your dog’s cough, visit the Central Veterinary Hospital. This hospital, with an experienced staff, is ready to provide medical services.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I take my dog to the veterinarian for coughing? If the cough is persistent, severe, and accompanied by symptoms such as lethargy, fever, loss of appetite, difficulty breathing, and unusual nasal discharge, you should see a veterinarian immediately.
Is dog coughing contagious? Yes. Some causes of coughing in dogs, like “kennel cough,” are contagious and can spread from one dog to another.
What does coughing in dogs along with vomiting mean? Coughing with vomiting can indicate gastrointestinal problems or even the presence of a foreign body in the esophagus.
