What Does It Mean If Your Puppy Has a Cough and What to Do

A coughing puppy can be concerning, especially for new pet owners. Coughing in dogs, like in humans, is a reflex designed to clear the airways of irritants, but it can also be a symptom of an underlying issue. In puppies, a cough may indicate anything from a mild irritation to a more serious respiratory infection. In this article, we’ll explore the common causes of coughing in puppies, when to worry, and what steps you should take to help your puppy feel better.

Why Is My Puppy Coughing?

Puppies, like adult dogs, can cough for a variety of reasons. While some causes are relatively harmless, others may require prompt veterinary attention. Here are some common reasons your puppy might be coughing:

1. Kennel Cough (Infectious Tracheobronchitis)

One of the most common causes of coughing in puppies is kennel cough, a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by a combination of viruses and bacteria, most commonly Bordetella bronchiseptica. Puppies are particularly vulnerable to kennel cough because their immune systems are still developing.

Symptoms of Kennel Cough:

• A persistent, dry, “honking” cough

• Gagging or retching after coughing

• Nasal discharge

• Mild fever in some cases

• Lethargy, though many puppies with kennel cough remain active

What to Do:

• Visit the Veterinarian: If you suspect kennel cough, it’s important to have your puppy examined by a vet. While kennel cough often resolves on its own, puppies may need supportive care, especially if they are very young.

• Isolate Your Puppy: Since kennel cough is contagious, keep your puppy away from other dogs until they recover fully.

• Provide Humidified Air: Using a humidifier in the room or bringing your puppy into a steamy bathroom for a few minutes can help soothe their irritated airways.

• Medications: Your vet may prescribe cough suppressants or antibiotics if a bacterial infection is suspected.

2. Upper Respiratory Infections

Upper respiratory infections (URIs) are another common cause of coughing in puppies, often caused by viruses such as canine distemper or adenovirus. These infections can lead to inflammation in the respiratory tract, triggering a cough.

Symptoms of a URI:

• Coughing (wet or dry)

• Sneezing

• Nasal and eye discharge

• Fever

• Loss of appetite

• Lethargy

What to Do:

• Immediate Veterinary Care: URIs can be serious in puppies, especially if they are caused by distemper, which can be life-threatening. If your puppy is coughing and showing other signs of illness (fever, lethargy, etc.), see your vet as soon as possible.

• Fluids and Nutrition: Ensure your puppy stays hydrated and is eating properly. Puppies with URIs may lose their appetite, so offer palatable foods and encourage them to drink water.

• Vaccinations: Puppies should receive their full set of vaccinations to prevent viral infections like distemper and adenovirus. If your puppy isn’t fully vaccinated yet, make sure to follow up with your vet to complete their vaccination schedule.

3. Parasites

Some types of parasites, particularly lungworms and heartworms, can cause coughing in puppies. Lungworms live in the lungs and airways, while heartworms live in the heart and can eventually block blood flow, leading to coughing and other severe symptoms.

Symptoms of Parasitic Infections:

• Persistent cough

• Difficulty breathing or wheezing

• Weight loss

• Lethargy

• Pale gums (especially in heartworm cases)

What to Do:

• Diagnostic Testing: If you suspect parasites, your vet can run tests (such as a blood test for heartworm or a fecal test for lungworm) to determine whether parasites are present.

• Deworming Treatment: For lungworms or intestinal parasites, your vet will prescribe deworming medications to clear the infection.

• Preventative Care: To prevent heartworm, it’s crucial to keep your puppy on a monthly heartworm prevention medication as recommended by your vet.

4. Foreign Objects in the Throat

Puppies are naturally curious and love to chew on things, which can sometimes lead to small foreign objects getting lodged in their throat or airways, causing coughing. This could be anything from grass, food, or small toys.

Symptoms of a Foreign Object:

• Sudden, persistent coughing

• Gagging or choking

• Pawing at the mouth

• Difficulty breathing (in severe cases)

What to Do:

• Check the Mouth: Carefully inspect your puppy’s mouth to see if you can spot and safely remove the object (only if it’s visible and easy to reach).

• Veterinary Assistance: If your puppy continues coughing or shows signs of distress, seek immediate veterinary care. The vet may need to perform imaging (like X-rays) or a physical examination to locate and remove the object.

• Prevention: Always supervise your puppy when they are playing with small objects and keep dangerous items out of reach.

5. Allergies or Environmental Irritants

Puppies can develop allergies to certain environmental triggers, such as dust, pollen, smoke, or chemicals. Inhaling these irritants can cause coughing, sneezing, and watery eyes. Some puppies may also be sensitive to strong cleaning products, perfumes, or even second-hand smoke.

Symptoms of Allergies or Irritants:

• Occasional coughing

• Sneezing

• Watery eyes or nasal discharge

• Itching or skin irritation

• No fever or other signs of infection

What to Do:

• Identify the Trigger: Try to determine whether there’s an environmental factor that could be causing the irritation. For example, if your puppy starts coughing after you’ve cleaned with a strong chemical, it may be the cause.

• Limit Exposure: Remove or reduce your puppy’s exposure to the irritant. Use pet-safe cleaning products and avoid smoking around your dog.

• Veterinary Guidance: If your puppy’s coughing persists, your vet may recommend antihistamines or other treatments to manage allergies.

6. Collapsed Trachea

A collapsed trachea is a condition where the tracheal rings (cartilage) weaken and collapse, partially blocking the airway. This condition is more common in certain small breeds, like Yorkshire Terriers and Chihuahuas, but it can occasionally affect other dogs as well.

Symptoms of a Collapsed Trachea:

• A harsh, honking cough, especially when excited or pulling on a leash

• Difficulty breathing

• Gagging or retching

What to Do:

• Veterinary Examination: If you suspect a collapsed trachea, a veterinarian can diagnose the condition through X-rays or other imaging tests.

• Weight Management: If your puppy is overweight, managing their weight can reduce pressure on the trachea and alleviate symptoms.

• Harness Use: Switch to a harness instead of a collar to avoid putting pressure on your dog’s throat.

• Medical Treatment: In severe cases, your vet may prescribe medications (such as anti-inflammatory drugs or bronchodilators) or recommend surgery.

7. Cold or Flu

Just like humans, puppies can catch colds or the flu. These respiratory infections are generally mild, but they can still cause coughing, sneezing, and a runny nose.

Symptoms of a Cold or Flu:

• Mild coughing

• Sneezing

• Watery eyes and nose

• Slight lethargy

What to Do:

• Monitor Symptoms: Most puppy colds are mild and resolve on their own with supportive care (rest, plenty of fluids, etc.).

• Veterinary Care: If your puppy’s symptoms worsen or don’t improve within a few days, see your vet. In rare cases, secondary infections may develop and require antibiotics.

When to Worry: Signs of a More Serious Condition

While many cases of coughing in puppies are mild and easily treatable, some can signal more serious health issues. You should contact your vet immediately if your puppy displays any of the following symptoms alongside their cough:

• Labored or rapid breathing

• Blue or pale gums

• Coughing up blood

• Severe lethargy or collapse

• Loss of appetite for more than 24 hours

• Severe vomiting or diarrhea

• High fever

These could indicate life-threatening conditions like pneumonia, heartworm disease, or severe respiratory infections.

A cough in your puppy can range from a minor irritation to a sign of a more serious condition. While some causes, such as kennel cough or mild respiratory infections, can often be managed with proper care and attention, others may require immediate veterinary intervention. Always monitor your puppy’s symptoms closely, and when in doubt, consult your vet to ensure your puppy receives the right treatment. With timely care, most puppies recover quickly and continue to thrive in their new homes.