As loving pet parents, it’s only natural to worry about our four-legged buddies’ health, and keeping an eye on their respiratory well-being is a big part of that. We’re quite familiar with humans having asthma, but have you ever wondered, “Can dogs have asthma too?” Let’s dive into the world of canine respiratory health and figure out why our furry pals might sometimes show symptoms that look a lot like asthma.

Can dogs have asthma: everything you need to know

Though their ancestors are different from humans, dogs’ respiratory system is very similar to ours. They have lungs that comprise a trachea, bronchi, alveoli, and other essential parts that facilitate breathing. Their respiratory system has built-in regulators that adjust breathing rates based on their oxygen demands. Think of how relaxed dogs are when they sleep or how they start to pant when they are active. This panting can sometimes freak out pet parents, who ask, “Can dogs have asthma?”

Dog asthma vs. human asthma

In simple terms, dogs don’t get asthma in the same way humans do. Human asthma typically involves an immediate and hypersensitive reaction to various triggers, like pollen. This leads to inflamed airways and difficulty breathing. Medications, like inhalers, help ease the inflammation and restore healthy breathing.

Now, when dogs start coughing, wheezing, and having trouble breathing, the go-to term is often dog asthma since the symptoms seem similar to human asthma. However, it’s a bit different for our furry friends. These symptoms in dogs usually point to chronic inflammation and lasting damage in the airways, not just a temporary response to a trigger. The inflammation can persist, causing long-term issues. While a more accurate term might be canine bronchitis or kennel cough, dog asthma is commonly used to describe these respiratory difficulties.

Causes of respiratory distress in dogs

While it may not be dog asthma per se, the underlying triggers for respiratory distress in our canine companions are quite similar. Allergies to environmental factors such as pollen, dust, or specific foods can lead to coughing and asthma-like symptoms in dogs. Exposure to pollutants like smoke or strong chemicals can also have a significant impact on a dog’s respiratory system. Moreover, respiratory infections, including pneumonia or kennel cough, can bring about inflammation in the airways, resulting in persistent issues.

Apart from environmental factors, a dog’s breed can also contribute to the development of respiratory challenges mistaken as dog asthma. For example, brachycephalic breeds like Bulldogs and Pugs, characterized by short noses and flattened faces, often experience a condition known as brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS). This condition brings about breathing difficulties and an increased susceptibility to respiratory distress. On the other hand, breeds with elongated spines, such as Dachshunds, may be prone to respiratory problems related to disc issues, given the structural impact on their respiratory system. Understanding these diverse factors is crucial in identifying and addressing respiratory issues in our beloved canine friends.

Signs and symptoms of respiratory distress in dogs

As a pet owner, it’s important to recognize signs of asthma in dogs. Symptoms are easy to detect, and these include:

  • Persistent coughing
  • Wheezing
  • Rapid, shallow, or labored breathing
  • Nasal discharge
  • Bluish tint to gums or tongue
  • Lethargy

Any combination of these signs should prompt you to seek veterinary attention. Timely intervention is critical to treating dog asthma or asthma-like conditions or developing a more accurate diagnosis, such as canine bronchitis. They can identify the underlying cause of your dog’s asthma symptoms, whether it’s an environmental element or a genetic predisposition. More importantly, a vet can create a care plan for your pet and ensure the damage to their respiratory system doesn’t worsen over time.

Diagnosis and treatment of dog asthma or canine bronchitis

Regardless of whether it’s dog asthma or canine bronchitis, diagnosing and treating respiratory symptoms in dogs follows a similar process. A veterinarian will examine your pet’s lungs and airways using tools such as X-rays. In some cases, a bronchoscopy may be recommended for a direct visual inspection of the air passages. In cases where allergies are suspected to contribute to their symptoms, a vet may perform allergy testing to identify specific triggers.

After a veterinarian has identified the issue, the treatment plan may involve any or a combination of the following techniques:

  • Medication — Depending on the diagnosis, veterinarians may prescribe medications to alleviate a dog’s asthma symptoms. Bronchodilators, which can be delivered through inhalers, and anti-inflammatory drugs are commonly used to improve a dog’s airway function. If a bacterial infection is present, antibiotics may also be prescribed to combat the infection and alleviate respiratory distress.
  • Allergy management — Managing and minimising exposure is a huge aspect of treatment for dog asthma triggered by allergies. You may be tasked to change your dog’s environment or make adjustments to their diet.
  • Oxygen therapy — In severe cases or during acute episodes, oxygen therapy may be administered to ensure adequate oxygen supply to the body.
  • Lifestyle adjustments — Veterinarians may also recommend lifestyle changes like weight management and exercise to enhance respiratory function and overall well-being.
  • Regular monitoring — Continuously monitor your dog’s asthma symptoms and their response to treatment. Your vet may have to recommend changes to your dog’s treatment plan based on their progress.

As a dog owner, you have the critical role of successfully managing your pet’s respiratory condition. Whether it’s dog asthma or something else entirely, you must follow the prescribed treatment plan, be diligent with check-ups, and address changes in your pet’s health.

Should I be scared of dog asthma?

Concerns about dog asthma, or bronchitis, are understandable, but there’s no need for unnecessary fear. While it shouldn’t be taken lightly, it’s crucial to recognize that canine respiratory conditions differ from human asthma. They tend to be more chronic, requiring ongoing management. The reassuring news is that, with proper veterinary care and responsible pet ownership, dog asthma is entirely manageable! By ensuring a supportive and comfortable environment for your furry friend, you can help them lead happy and fulfilling lives, even with respiratory challenges.

Order dog asthma medication online at Inhouse Pharmacy

When it comes to managing your dog’s respiratory symptoms, turn to Inhouse Pharmacy. We offer a range of pet care products that include asthma medications like Flixotide and Ventolin, specifically formulated to ease asthma-like symptoms in dogs.

Place your order today and enjoy fast and free delivery! We ship to numerous locations worldwide, giving you effortless access to vital medication for your beloved pets.