If you have noticed a change in your dog’s breathing, it could be a cause for concern. There are many factors that could be the cause, such as allergies or pneumonia. Therefore, once you begin to recognize the symptoms, you can take action. Here are some of the various causes of breathing difficulties in dogs.
Allergies
As humans, we can suffer from a range of allergies, however, what you may not realize is that your dogs can be allergic to us too. One of the most common causes of breathing difficulties in dogs is because of allergies. If your dog is struggling to breathe, you may want to stop wearing perfume, using scented cleaning products as well as air fresheners. Your dog’s health should be your number one priority, so it’s essential that you keep your home rid of nasty chemicals which can cause harm. Finding out more about breathing problems in dogs can help you recognize the symptoms easier.
Illness
There are several illnesses that your dog may have which could be the cause of them having breathing problems. Heart disease is another common cause of breathing issues, so it’s important that you ask your local vet to perform a series of tests to determine whether your dog has a heart murmur. If your dog isn’t eating or you have noticed a change in his behavior, he could have heart disease. If your dog is sneezing frequently or has a dry cough, they may have parainfluenza. Dogs can get ill just like humans, so being aware of the signs and notifying your vet can get the problem sorted quickly.
Medical Disorders
A disorder that is typically found in Labradors is laryngeal paralysis. This is when a part of the larynx becomes paralyzed, causing pressure on the trachea. The disorder can become worse when your dog is either excited or feeling anxious. Another disorder that is linked with breathing issues is megaesophagus, which is typically hereditary. Your vet will be able to explain the disorders further, helping you gain more of an understanding.
Congenital Defects
If your dog has a pushed-in snout, it can be hard for him/her to get enough air, which results in breathing problems. Found in brachycephalic breeds, one of the most obvious signs of these breathing issues is when there is not enough of an opening in the nose. One of the more extreme defects is if your dog has a squashed face. The flatter it is, the higher the chance your dog will have difficulty breathing. Breeds that are most affected include Pugs, Bulldogs, Boxers, and Boston Terriers.
Visit Your Vet
If you have linked any of the symptoms listed with your dog, it’s essential that you visit your vet as soon as possible. You will want your furry friend to live a long and healthy life so getting treatment sooner rather than later is important.
To get to the root of the problem, it’s essential that you take your dog to the vet who will be able to find the underlying cause and offer their expert opinion, whether he needs medication or surgery to treat his issue. If you have noticed a significant change in your dog’s breathing, it’s important not to ignore it.
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