When your dog starts sneezing and coughing, it can be worrying to watch. These symptoms might seem harmless at first, but they often signal an underlying issue that needs attention.
We outline the possible causes of dog sneezing and coughing, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
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Dog Sneezing and Coughing — Why It Happens
Dogs sneeze and cough for a variety of reasons, ranging from mild irritants to more serious illnesses. Sneezing may be triggered by dust, allergies, or nasal infections, while coughing could be linked to kennel cough, heart disease, or respiratory infections.
Sometimes, both symptoms appear together when the airway or nasal passages are inflamed, irritated, or infected.
Because these signs overlap in many conditions, it’s important to look at your dog’s overall behavior and health.
Dog Sneezing and Coughing: Possible Causes
Kennel Cough
Kennel cough, or canine infectious tracheobronchitis, is one of the most common reasons dogs sneeze and cough together. It spreads easily in places where dogs gather, such as kennels, dog parks, or grooming salons.
You may notice a hacking cough that sounds like your dog is trying to clear their throat. Sneezing, nasal discharge, and mild lethargy can also appear.
While kennel cough often resolves on its own, it can make your dog miserable and may develop into pneumonia in severe cases.
Respiratory Infections
Viral and bacterial infections, such as canine influenza or pneumonia, can cause both sneezing and coughing. These illnesses inflame the airways and lungs, leading to irritation that triggers frequent symptoms.
Dogs with respiratory infections often seem tired, may run a fever, and can lose interest in food. Breathing may sound raspy or labored. Because these infections can progress quickly, veterinary care is essential.
Read more: Dog shaking and reverse sneezing (Here’s what it could mean)
Allergies
Just like people, dogs can suffer from environmental allergies to pollen, dust, mold, or household chemicals. When allergens enter the nose or throat, they cause irritation that leads to sneezing and coughing.
Dogs with allergies may also have watery eyes, itchy skin, or constant paw licking. While not immediately life-threatening, untreated allergies can make your dog uncomfortable and more prone to secondary infections.
Foreign Bodies
A blade of grass, seed, or small object lodged in the nasal passages or throat can trigger sneezing and coughing. Dogs that sniff around outdoors or chew on toys are more likely to inhale or swallow debris accidentally.
Signs of a foreign body include sudden, forceful sneezing, pawing at the nose or mouth, gagging, or drooling. This situation is uncomfortable and potentially dangerous if it obstructs breathing.
Heart Disease
Certain types of heart disease in dogs can cause fluid to build up in the lungs. This leads to a persistent cough that may be mistaken for a respiratory issue.
Alongside coughing, affected dogs may tire easily, breathe heavily, or faint after activity. Sneezing may occur when congestion irritates the nasal passages. Heart disease is serious and requires lifelong veterinary management.
Nasal Mites or Other Parasites
Though less common, parasites such as nasal mites can irritate the nasal passages, causing sneezing fits and sometimes coughing. Dogs with mites often have a runny nose and may sneeze repeatedly in clusters.
These parasites are highly irritating and can spread between dogs. Veterinary treatment is needed to eliminate them fully.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Sneezing and Coughing
If your dog’s symptoms are mild, you can support them at home while keeping a close eye on their condition. Ensure they have plenty of fresh water and a quiet space to rest.
Reducing exposure to smoke, perfumes, or cleaning products can help if irritants are suspected.
For dogs with possible allergies, try wiping their paws and coat after outdoor walks to remove pollen or dust. Running a humidifier indoors may also soothe irritated airways. If kennel cough is suspected, keep your dog away from other dogs until they recover.
Above all, monitor your dog’s eating, drinking, and energy levels closely. If their symptoms worsen or new signs develop, a vet visit is essential.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
You should seek veterinary care right away if your dog shows severe or persistent symptoms. Difficulty breathing, wheezing, or bluish gums are emergencies. Continuous coughing that interrupts sleep or causes gagging is also concerning.
Other warning signs include bloody discharge from the nose, high fever, loss of appetite, or extreme lethargy. Puppies, senior dogs, or those with existing health problems are at higher risk and should be seen sooner.
Because sneezing and coughing can signal contagious illnesses or heart conditions, timely veterinary evaluation helps prevent complications.
Read more: Old Dog Breathing Heavy and Not Eating (Why you should pay attention)
Key Takeaway
Sneezing and coughing in dogs may look minor, but these symptoms often point to underlying issues that require care.
From kennel cough and allergies to more serious problems like heart disease, many causes can affect your dog’s breathing and comfort.
If your dog is sneezing and coughing, provide supportive care at home, avoid exposure to irritants, and monitor them closely. But never hesitate to call your veterinarian if symptoms persist or your dog seems unwell.
With prompt attention, most causes can be managed successfully, helping your dog breathe easier and feel better again.