Canine Respiratory Issues: What Dog Owners Should Look Out For

Just like humans, dogs can experience respiratory issues that range from mild to serious. Because breathing is vital to every aspect of your dog’s health, recognizing early warning signs can make a big difference in getting them the care they need. Whether your pup is in daycare, boarding, or simply lounging at home, knowing what to watch for can help you act quickly if something seems wrong.

Common Causes of Respiratory Issues in Dogs

Dogs can develop breathing problems for several reasons. Some of the most common include:

• Infections – Kennel cough, canine influenza, or pneumonia can all affect the respiratory system.

• Allergies – Seasonal pollen, dust, or household cleaners may trigger coughing or wheezing.

• Anatomy – Brachycephalic breeds (like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Frenchies) are prone to airway difficulties because of their shortened noses and compressed airways.

• Obstructions – Foreign objects (like grass seeds or small toys) can get lodged in the throat or nasal passages.

• Chronic conditions – Tracheal collapse or heart disease may also affect breathing over time.

Signs Your Dog May Have a Respiratory Problem

Keep an eye out for these key symptoms:

• Coughing or gagging – A persistent cough, especially if it sounds like honking, may signal kennel cough or tracheal collapse.

• Sneezing and nasal discharge – Clear discharge could indicate allergies, while yellow or green may suggest infection.

• Wheezing or labored breathing – Noisy or shallow breaths are always a red flag.

• Exercise intolerance – If your dog tires easily or avoids play, it may be struggling to get enough oxygen.

• Bluish gums or tongue – This is a serious emergency sign of oxygen deprivation.

• Open-mouth breathing in non-brachycephalic breeds – Unlike cats, dogs can pant to cool off, but constant open-mouth breathing when at rest could point to a problem.

When to Seek Veterinary Care

Some respiratory issues resolve with rest and time, but others require immediate medical attention. Call your veterinarian if your dog:

• Has a cough lasting more than a few days

• Produces thick nasal discharge

• Has difficulty breathing or makes unusual noises while breathing

• Refuses food and water in addition to showing respiratory symptoms

• Shows sudden collapse, blue gums, or extreme lethargy (emergency)

Prevention Tips for Dog Owners

While not all respiratory issues can be avoided, there are steps you can take to help protect your dog:

• Stay current on vaccinations – Bordetella, canine influenza, and other core vaccines reduce risk.

• Keep environments clean – Regular sanitization in boarding and daycare facilities helps limit spread of illness.

• Avoid smoke and irritants – Smoke, strong cleaners, and aerosols can aggravate sensitive airways.

• Choose supervised play – Daycare programs that monitor dogs closely can catch early signs of illness before they worsen.

The Bottom Line

Respiratory issues in dogs can range from a simple cough to a life-threatening emergency. As a pet parent, staying alert to symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and nasal discharge ensures you can get your dog help when needed.

At Collars Dog Resort, we keep a close watch on every pup in our care, whether they’re with us for daycare, boarding, or grooming. Our trained staff knows how to spot early signs of illness and will always communicate with you if something seems off. Together, we can make sure your dog breathes easy and enjoys every moment of play.