Lung Problems

Lung problems include diseases of the airways and lung tissue. They can range from mild coughing to life-threatening breathlessness, affecting dogs of all breeds, albeit with varying frequency.

Brachycephalic breeds such as Pugs, French Bulldogs, or Boston Terriers suffer from breathing problems significantly more often than dogs with a normal nose shape. In short-nosed breeds, bottlenecks in breathing arise due to shortened anatomy: narrow nostrils, an elongated palate, and a narrowed trachea.

Infectious causes are the primary concern. Simple bronchitis usually resolves within two weeks, whereas bacterial pneumonia can be fatal if left untreated. Allergic reactions to house dust mites, pollen or cigarette smoke often manifest as seasonal coughing, indicating that no infection is present.

Heart disease causes secondary lung problems. If the heart weakens, fluid accumulates in the lungs, a condition known as pulmonary oedema. This presents as night-time coughing that worsens when lying down. Unlike infectious coughing, there is no expectoration here.

You can recognise warning signs from the breathing itself. Healthy dogs breathe 15 to 30 times per minute at rest. If the respiratory rate rises above 35 breaths or becomes shallow and laboured, action is required. A bluish discolouration of the tongue or gums signals acute oxygen deficiency, which is an emergency.

Distinguishing between acute and chronic problems aids assessment. Sudden onset of breathlessness may indicate aspiration of a foreign body, particularly in puppies that put everything in their mouths. Chronic coughing over several weeks more likely points to structural issues or heart disease.

Environmental factors play a role that you, as the owner, can directly influence. Cigarette smoke is considered one of the most significant avoidable risk factors for respiratory diseases in dogs. Highly perfumed cleaning products or air fresheners can also irritate sensitive dog lungs. During pollen season, allergic dogs often show their strongest symptoms in the morning.