Why Is My Dog Wheezing? Causes and Remedies Explained

If you’ve ever heard your dog make a wheezing sound, you know how concerning it can be. Wheezing in dogs can be caused by a number of different health problems, some of which are relatively minor and others that are more serious. Wheezing is the result of a narrowed airway that makes it difficult for your dog to breathe. Some of the most common causes of wheezing in dogs include allergies, asthma, heart disease, obesity, paralysis of the laryngeal nerve, and obstructions like elongated soft palates or masses in the airway. In general, wheezing in dogs can be a sign of a more serious health problem, especially if it’s severe or chronic.

To help you better understand why your dog might be wheezing and what you can do about it, we’ve researched and compiled information on the most common causes and treatments for this issue. We’ve looked at research from a variety of medical fields to help you understand the best ways to address your dog’s wheezing in the short term and the most effective ways to prevent it in the long term. By the time you’re done reading, you’ll have the information you need to make sure your dog’s respiratory health is in good shape.

How to Tell If Your Dog Is Wheezing

Wheezing is not a normal condition in dogs, and it should not be overlooked. It can be a sign of an underlying problem that needs to be addressed by a veterinarian. If your dog is wheezing, especially if it’s happening frequently or if it’s severe, you should take them to the vet. According to The Village Vets, the causes of wheezing can be as minor as kennel cough or allergies, or as serious as heartworm disease or nasal tumors.

If the wheezing is happening with other symptoms, like coughing, nasal discharge, or trouble breathing, you should also take your dog to the vet. These symptoms could be a sign of a more serious issue that needs to be treated right away. If the wheezing comes on suddenly, is severe, or if your dog is having trouble breathing or their gums are turning blue, you should take them to the vet or an animal hospital immediately. This is considered an emergency, according to Carolina Veterinary Specialists.

If your dog is wheezing on and off, you should still take them to the vet. This could be a sign that they have asthma, and if it’s not treated, it could lead to long-term lung damage, says Lake Cross Veterinary Hospital. If your dog is showing any signs of asthma, including wheezing, you should contact your vet right away to make sure that they get the care they need.

Traditional Treatment Options for Dog Wheezing

The treatment of dog wheezing will depend on the cause and may include medications, lifestyle changes, or surgery. As stated by PetMD, antibiotics can be used to treat respiratory infections that lead to wheezing, and antihistamines and steroids can be used to treat allergic reactions and inflammation.

For dogs with collapsing trachea or other airway obstructions, The Vets says that surgery can be performed to correct the problem and help the dog breathe more easily. For asthma or chronic bronchitis, bronchodilator medications or dog-specific inhalers can be prescribed to open the airways.

In order to diagnose the cause of wheezing, X-rays, bloodwork, and CT scans may be needed to determine the cause and treatment plan, according to PetMD. With the right treatment plan, which may include a combination of the above treatments, many dogs can be treated for wheezing and other respiratory issues. That said, there are also natural and home treatments that can be used to help improve your dog's respiratory health.

Natural and Home Remedies for Dog Wheezing

There are a few natural remedies and supplements that may help with wheezing and overall respiratory health in dogs. Herbs such as quercetin, mullein, licorice root, and echinacea are anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting and can help with allergies and respiratory issues, according to Ask Ariel. Omega-3 fatty acids and olive leaf extract can also help reduce inflammation in the respiratory system and fight infections, according to Ask Ariel.

Environmental remedies such as using a humidifier, oxygen therapy, and acupuncture may also be helpful, according to Wag! Walking. In addition, managing a dog's weight, diet, and exercise can help with wheezing and other respiratory issues, according to Zumalka. While natural remedies can be effective, it's important to talk to a vet before starting a new treatment, as some may have interactions with other medications or health issues.

Prevention of Dog Wheezing

One of the best ways to prevent wheezing in dogs is to identify and eliminate potential allergens or triggers in the dog's environment, according to Trudell Animal Health. This can be done through keeping a clean house, using air purifiers, and making sure your dog has the right outdoor equipment to keep them safe from pollutants, according to BetterPet.

It is also important to make sure your dog is up to date on their vet visits, vaccinations, and preventative medications, including heartworm prevention, according to Metropolitan Veterinary Associates. In addition, making sure your dog is at a healthy weight and gets regular exercise can help prevent respiratory issues, according to BetterPet.

For brachycephalic breeds that are prone to respiratory issues, surgery may be recommended to prevent wheezing and other respiratory problems, according to BetterPet. By taking these steps, dog owners can help ensure that their pets are less likely to experience wheezing or other respiratory problems.

Conclusion: How to Keep Your Dog's Lungs Healthy

Wheezing in dogs can be caused by a variety of health problems, from allergies to more serious respiratory conditions. Therefore, it’s important to visit the vet if your dog is wheezing, especially if the wheezing is frequent or severe, so you can find out what’s causing the problem and get the appropriate treatment. You may need to use a combination of traditional treatments, natural remedies, and preventive measures to manage and reduce your dog’s wheezing.

To help prevent respiratory issues, make sure your dog is living in a clean environment, eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and visiting the vet for regular checkups. By learning about the causes, symptoms, and preventive measures, you can help make sure your dog is healthy and comfortable and has the best possible lung function.