Dog asthma is also called allergic bronchitis or allergic airway disease – it’s a serious respiratory condition that can influence a dog’s ability to breathe normally.
More commonly associated with humans, dogs can also experience some respiratory challenges that affect their quality of life.
If you have a pet, you need to be aware of the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for dog asthma.
Causes and Triggers of Dog Asthma
Dog asthma is generally triggered by inhaling allergens in the environment.
Common allergens that may cause asthma in dogs are:
- Mold spores
- Dust and mold mites
- Pollen
- Cigarette smoke
- Household cleaners
- Air pollution
- Perfumes and air fresheners
- Airborne pesticides or fertilizers
If your dogs are exposed to these allergens, it can cause their airways to become inflamed, which increases breathing issues.
It’s important for dog owners to be aware of these likely triggers and take steps to cut down such exposure to help stem asthma attacks in their pets.
Symptoms of Asthma in Dogs
Dogs with asthma will show some symptoms that are similar to those also seen in humans with the condition.
Common signs of asthma in dogs are:
- Wheezing
- Heavy panting with the mouth open
- Rapid breathing
- Sudden difficulty breathing
- Persistent cough
- Loss of energy
- Bluish gum color (showing a lack of oxygen)
- Loss of appetite
These symptoms can be different in intensity, with some dogs going through mild symptoms and others suffering from more severe and quick asthma attacks.
Sometimes the symptoms may be mistaken for other respiratory conditions, so it’s necessary to get in touch with a veterinarian for the right diagnosis.
As we explained at the beginning, asthma in dogs has much to do with allergic reactions; the condition is more accurately referred to as canine allergic bronchitis rather than just asthma. This distinction shows the allergic nature of the condition, where the dog’s immune system reacts to certain environmental triggers, and they end up getting inflammation in the airways.
Just like in humans, inflammation is an unavoidable problem factor in dog asthma. This inflammation can make it difficult for the dog to breathe with narrowing airways. As a chronic condition, asthma in dogs needs ongoing management to cut down inflammation levels and prevent asthma attacks.
Diagnosis of Dog Asthma
There is no specific test to diagnose asthma in dogs; veterinarians diagnose the condition by ruling out other possible reasons that could be behind the symptoms, like heart disease, bacterial infections, and heartworm disease.
The diagnostic process may have:
- Physical examination
- X-rays
- Heartworm testing
These tests help the veterinarian assess the dog’s general health and decide whether asthma is the most likely cause of respiratory symptoms.
Treatment Options for Dog Asthma
The treatment comes down to how serious the condition is and how frequently the symptoms show up.
Common treatment approaches are:
- Anti-inflammatory steroids: These medications help control inflammation in the airways and prevent lung damage.
- Bronchodilators (e.g., albuterol sulfate): These medications relax the muscles around the airways, so it gets easier for the dog to breathe.
- Antihistamines: These can reduce the allergic reactions that may trigger asthma attacks.
- Inhalers: Veterinarians may even prescribe inhalers that are meant for dogs to manage asthma symptoms.
Some steps can be taken to minimize your pet dogs’ exposure to allergens and manage their asthma.
- Identify and avoid triggers
- Use HEPA air filters
- Regularly clean your home and your dog’s bedding
- Avoid smoking or using strong fragrances near your dog
- Try to remove the carpets and use hard flooring
If you think your dog has asthma, take them to the veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment. Early intervention and management can help your dog live a healthy and active life – no matter the condition.
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