dog coughs when excited

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Dog Coughs When Excited: Causes, Treatments, and Prevention

Introduction

If your beloved canine companion starts coughing uncontrollably when they get excited, it can be a cause for concern. This article delves into the various reasons why a dog might cough when excited, as well as effective treatments and preventive measures to consider.

dog coughs when excited
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Common Causes of Dog Coughs When Excited

  • Kennel Cough: This is a highly contagious respiratory infection that causes a dry, hacking cough. It's spread through contact with infected dogs or their respiratory secretions.
  • Tracheal Collapse: A weak trachea can collapse when the dog pulls on the leash or gets excited, causing a hacking cough.
  • Bronchitis: Inflammation of the bronchial tubes can trigger coughing, especially when the dog is exercised or exposed to irritants.
  • Heart Disease: Congestive heart failure can lead to fluid buildup in the lungs, resulting in a moist, coughing sound.
  • Anxiety or Stress: Some dogs cough when they're anxious or stressed, as a way to release tension.

Diagnosing Dog Coughs When Excited

To determine the underlying cause of your dog's cough, the veterinarian will perform a thorough physical examination and ask about the dog's history and symptoms. They may recommend further tests such as:

  • Chest X-rays: To check for signs of heart disease, pneumonia, or other lung abnormalities.
  • Bloodwork: To evaluate the dog's overall health and rule out infections or underlying conditions.
  • Heart Ultrasound: To assess the heart's function and identify any abnormalities.

Treatment Options for Dog Coughs When Excited

Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the cough. Common treatments include:

  • Antibiotics: To treat bacterial infections like kennel cough.
  • Bronchodilators: To relax the airway muscles and reduce coughing.
  • Heart Medication: To manage heart disease and reduce fluid buildup in the lungs.
  • Anxiety Medications: To calm anxious dogs and reduce stress-related coughs.

Preventive Measures for Dog Coughs When Excited

Preventing dog coughs when excited is crucial. Consider these measures:

  • Vaccinate against Kennel Cough: Regular vaccinations can protect your dog from this contagious infection.
  • Use a Harness: Avoid pulling on the dog's leash as it can put pressure on the trachea and trigger coughing.
  • Exercise Regularly: Regular exercise can strengthen the respiratory muscles and improve overall lung health.
  • Control Anxiety: Address any underlying anxiety or stress that may be triggering the coughing.
  • Avoid Irritants: Keep your dog away from smoke, dust, and other irritants that can worsen coughing.

Comparison of Dog Coughs When Excited

Condition Symptoms Causes Treatment
Kennel Cough Dry, hacking cough Contagious infection Antibiotics
Tracheal Collapse Hacking cough, difficulty breathing Weak trachea Surgery, bronchodilators
Bronchitis Moist cough, wheezing Inflammation of bronchial tubes Bronchodilators, antibiotics
Heart Disease Moist cough, heart murmur Congestive heart failure Heart medication, diuretics
Anxiety or Stress Hacking or dry cough Nervousness, excitement Anxiety medications

Conclusion

Dog coughs when excited can be a symptom of various underlying conditions. By understanding the causes, seeking veterinary attention for diagnosis, and implementing appropriate treatments and preventive measures, you can help your furry friend overcome this issue and enjoy a healthy and happy life.

For more information on dog health and behavior, check out our other articles:

FAQ about Dog Coughs When Excited

Why does my dog cough when excited?

Answer: When dogs get excited, they often breathe shallowly and rapidly, which can irritate their throat and cause coughing.

Is it normal for dogs to cough when excited?

Answer: Yes, occasional coughing when excited is normal, but excessive or persistent coughing should be checked by a veterinarian.

Can I do anything to stop my dog from coughing when excited?

Answer: Try to keep your dog calm and avoid situations that trigger excitement. Consider using a harness or gentle leader to prevent them from pulling on the leash during walks.

Is there any treatment for dog coughs when excited?

Answer: If your dog's cough is excessive or persistent, your veterinarian may prescribe cough suppressants or recommend lifestyle changes.

Can dog coughs when excited be a sign of other health issues?

Answer: Yes, if your dog's cough is accompanied by other symptoms, such as lethargy, labored breathing, or discharge from the nose or eyes, it could be a sign of an underlying medical condition.

What should I do if my dog's cough doesn't go away?

Answer: If your dog's cough persists for more than a few days or worsens, seek professional veterinary care.

How can I prevent my dog from getting a cough?

Answer: Keep your dog up-to-date on vaccinations, avoid exposure to smoking or air pollution, and provide a healthy diet and plenty of fresh water.

Can dog coughs be contagious to humans?

Answer: In most cases, dog coughs are not contagious to humans. However, some respiratory infections can spread between dogs and humans, so it's important to practice good hygiene when interacting with a coughing dog.

What is Kennel Cough?

Answer: Kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory infection in dogs caused by bacteria or viruses. It's characterized by a harsh, dry cough and can be spread through close contact with infected dogs.

How can I prevent Kennel Cough?

Answer: Vaccination is the best way to prevent Kennel Cough. Avoid exposing your dog to coughing dogs in public places, and keep them up-to-date on their vaccinations.

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