REASONS FOR A DOG COUGHING
Cough is a reflex that is initiated by an irritant in the
air passages. It is a sign common to many diseases that occur
in the dog.
A cough may be caused by an infection (virus, bacteria,
fungus or parasite), an inhaled irritant such as smoke or
chemicals, foreign objects (everything from tiny grass seeds
to food particles lodged in the throat or windpipe), pressure
from tight collars, growths of the air passages and allergies
to many different substances.
THE TYPE OF COUGH SUGGESTS ITS LOCATION AND PROBABLE
CAUSE.
(1) A high, harsh, dry, barking cough is typical of
diseases such as Kennel Cough (cough without Phlegm).
(2) A moist, bubbling cough indicates the presence of Fluid
and Phlegm.
(3) A high, weak, gagging cough associated with swallowing
repeatedly or licking of the lips is characteristic of
Tonsillitis and Sore Throat.
(4) A gagging, choking sound (not a true cough) where the
dog may appear to be even trying to vomit suggests something
lodged in his throat or mouth.
(5) A deep, tight, wheezy cough is heard with Chronic
Bronchitis and also Allergic Bronchitis (Asthma).
(6) A spasm of prolonged coughing, which follows exercise
or occurs at night when the dog is laying down, suggests Heart
Disease.
(7) A cough that occurs after drinking may be caused by
leakage of fluid into the windpipe from faulty closure of the
Epiglottis. Just one reason for this, may be something trapped
in the dogs windpipe.
Coughs are self perpetuating. Coughing itself irritates the
airways, dries out the mucus lining and lowers resistance to
infection, leading to further coughing.
