VET APPROVED
WRITTEN BY
Dr. Paola Cuevas
Veterinarian, MVZ
The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research.
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If your dog seems to be coughing as if something is obstructing their throat, it can be concerning. There are various reasons this could be happening. We will discuss some common causes and provide advice on how to address it to assist your dog.
The most typical reasons for a dog coughing as if they have something stuck in their throat include:
- Kennel cough
- Viral infection
- Tracheal collapse
Kennel Cough
Kennel cough, formally known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis, is a prevalent upper respiratory infection in dogs. It is termed kennel cough because it spreads quickly in settings where many dogs are housed closely together, allowing airborne pathogens to move easily between them.
While several microorganisms can cause this infection, one bacterium, Bordetella bronchiseptica, is often involved in many cases. Therefore, kennel cough is sometimes referred to as Bordetellosis. However, it typically involves a viral component as well.
How Does a Dog Contract this Infection?
For Bordetella to infect a dog’s trachea and larynx, there needs to be a predisposing factor such as immunosuppression (common in stressful shelter environments) or a prior viral infection that hampers the respiratory cells’ mucus-producing ability, which normally acts as a protective barrier against this bacterium. Other non-infectious factors that can increase the risk of kennel cough include respiratory irritants like smoke or environmental pollutants. Symptoms typically appear within 2–14 days after exposure, so if your dog has interacted with other dogs, visited a groomer, shelter, boarding facility, or experienced stress in the last two weeks, kennel cough could be a possibility.
Should You Consult a Vet?
While kennel cough usually resolves on its own, it is highly contagious. Therefore, an infected dog should be isolated from others to prevent transmission. Although kennel cough may cause a runny nose and eye discharge, most dogs maintain their usual activity levels and appetite. If the cough is accompanied by lethargy, fever, or loss of appetite, contact your vet as these could indicate a more serious condition like pneumonia or another respiratory illness.
If your dog appears otherwise healthy with just a persistent honking-like cough, there is likely no immediate cause for concern. Keep your dog isolated, follow the recommended guidelines, and improvement should be visible within a week or two.
How Long Should You Keep Your Dog Isolated?
Typically, kennel cough symptoms subside within 2–3 weeks, although in immunocompromised or older dogs, this can extend up to six weeks. Despite symptom resolution, a dog may remain contagious for up to 14 weeks afterward.
Can You Help Your Dog?
- Remove their collar or switch it to a harness.
- Increase air humidity to ease the upper respiratory tract by using a humidifier or bringing the dog into a steamy bathroom.
- Administer a spoonful of manuka honey per 10–20 pounds of body weight 2–3 times daily.
- Discuss supplementing your dog with vitamin C with your vet.
- Avoid respiratory irritants like scented candles, smoke, or harsh chemicals.
Viral Infection
Various viruses can impact a dog’s respiratory system or immune system, often preceding kennel cough. Some common ones include:
- Canine parainfluenza virus
- Canine adenovirus type II
Should You Visit a Vet?
These viral infections generally resolve on their own. If your dog is active, eating well, and has only a cough, a vet visit may not be immediately necessary. Some nasal discharge is common, but if your dog displays breathing difficulties, lethargy, fever, or loss of appetite, consult your vet promptly. If symptoms worsen, seek vet assistance.
How Can You Support Your Dog?
Maintaining a robust immune system is key in combating viral infections.
- Replace collars with harnesses for small dogs.
- Raise air moisture levels to soothe the upper respiratory tract.
- Give your dog manuka honey as directed.
- Inquire about supplementing vitamin C and L-lysine.
Tracheal Collapse
Tracheal collapse is a progressive condition affecting the trachea, commonly seen in small breeds like Yorkshires, Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, and Toy Poodles. These breeds are genetically predisposed to this ailment, although it can impact other dogs as well. A honking cough or the sensation of something stuck in the throat is often an early indicator of this condition, particularly in older dogs of these breeds.
Should You Consult the Vet?
If tracheal collapse is suspected, a vet should evaluate your dog to assess the severity and recommend treatment. Severe cases may require intricate surgery, highlighting the importance of preventive measures and early intervention.
How Can You Prevent Tracheal Collapse?
- Opt for harnesses instead of collars for small breeds.
- Avoid respiratory irritants like scented products, smoke, or harsh chemicals.
- Discuss glucosamine and chondroitin supplementation with your vet, particularly for puppies of predisposed breeds to prevent issues or manage early-stage degeneration.
Conclusion
A dog coughing as if something is lodged in their throat is often due to kennel cough, a contagious yet typically self-resolving infection. In dogs showing no additional symptoms, this is usually not a significant concern. For small breed dogs, a similar cough could signify tracheal collapse, warranting early attention to enhance successful management without resorting to complex surgery.
You may also want to read:
- Why Is My Dog Coughing? 6 Potential Reasons & When To Act (Vet Answer)
- Why Is My Puppy Breathing Fast: Should I Worry? Vet Answer)
Featured Image Credit: 5075933, Pixabay
