Protect Your Dog’s Lungs: Causes and Solutions for Wheezing

There’s nothing more concerning than when your furry friend starts wheezing as a dog owner. Wheezing is a common symptom of various respiratory issues ranging from minor to severe. This post will discuss the causes of dog wheezing and provide solutions to keep your dog’s lungs healthy.

We’ll also share some home remedies to treat dogs’ wheezing. Whether you’re a new or experienced pet parent, keep reading to learn how to protect your dog’s lungs. It could lead to a healthier and happier life together.

Dog Wheezing

Dog wheezing describes a high-pitched whistling sound that occurs when a dog breathes in or out. It is caused by the narrowing of the airways in the lungs for various reasons.

A healthy dog’s lungs directly affect its ability to breathe and maintain a healthy level of physical activity.

Dogs with unhealthy lungs risk developing serious respiratory conditions that can even lead to death.

Causes of Dog Wheezing

Allergies

Allergies, asthma, respiratory infections, heart disease, and obesity can cause dog wheezing. Each of these causes affects a dog’s respiratory system differently.

Pollen, dust, and mold can trigger a dog’s immune system reaction, leading to respiratory issues.

Food allergies like chicken or beef can also cause wheezing when the dog is allergic to them.

A dog’s airway can be inflamed and constricted due to an allergic reaction to these allergens. It leads to wheezing sounds as they breathe.

Asthma

Asthma causes a dog’s airways to become inflamed and narrow.

During an asthma attack, a dog may experience difficulty breathing, coughing, and wheezing.

Triggers for asthma attacks can vary between dogs, but common ones include exercise, stress, and exposure to allergens.

Respiratory Infections

Respiratory infections like kennel cough or pneumonia can also cause wheezing in dogs. These infections make it difficult for dogs to breathe normally, leading to inflammation in their airways.

Heart Disease

Heart disease can also contribute to wheezing in dogs. When a dog’s heart is not functioning properly, fluid buildup in the lungs makes breathing harder. 

Obesity

Excess weight can pressure a dog’s respiratory system, making breathing harder for them to breathe normally. Overweight dogs may also be more prone to developing other health conditions like heart disease or diabetes, further exacerbating their wheezing symptoms.

Keeping your Dog’s Lungs Healthy

Keeping your dog’s lungs healthy involves regular exercise, proper nutrition, avoidance of smoke and air pollution, vaccinations, and regular veterinary check-ups.

There are also some home remedies for dog wheezing.

Steam Therapy

It is a popular home remedy for your dog’s wheezing or coughing. Place your pup in the closed-door bathroom, and turn on the hot shower. The steam will help clear your pup’s airways.

Honey

Honey has long been known to be a natural antiseptic and can help soothe sore throats and calm coughing fits. Mix one teaspoon of honey and olive oil with your pup daily to relieve coughing fits.

Essential oils

Eucalyptus and tea tree oil have anti-inflammatory properties that help clear the lungs. Add five drops of either oil to a liter of warm water and use it to mist your pup’s throat or chest.

Herbal supplements

Herbal supplements such as licorice root, slippery elm, and marshmallow can help reduce lung inflammation. Consult with your veterinarian before giving any herbal supplement to your pup.

When to See a Vet?

Knowing when to see a vet can be crucial in keeping your furry friend healthy and happy if you have a wheezing dog. Here are some indicators to see a vet:

• Persistent or Worsening Symptom

Coughing, difficulty breathing, and lethargy are common symptoms. If these symptoms persist or worsen, these could indicate a more severe underlying condition like pneumonia or heart disease.

• Change in Behavior

Your dog’s behavior change could also indicate a need for veterinary care. For example, if your dog suddenly loses its appetite or becomes unusually lethargic, it may suffer from an underlying condition that needs medical attention. Other changes to watch out for include increased aggression or withdrawal from social interactions.

• Difficulty Breathing

Difficulty breathing requires immediate veterinary attention. It occurs when your dog gasps for air, has a blue tongue, or collapses. Dogs with difficulty in breathing may be experiencing life-threatening conditions – an obstructed airway, asthma, or a heart attack.

Final Thoughts

Allergies, asthma, respiratory infections, heart disease, and obesity can cause dog wheezing.

Keeping your dog’s lungs healthy through regular exercise, proper nutrition, and avoiding smoke and air pollution is crucial.

Regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, and prompt attention to changes in your dog’s behavior and breathing are also essential.

Home remedies like steam therapy, honey, essential oils, and herbal supplements can help alleviate symptoms. However, if your dog’s wheezing persists or worsens, it is advisable to seek veterinary care immediately.

Prevention is key to maintaining your furry friend’s healthy and happy life.