Dogs, like humans, may get a cough from time to time, which is usually not a big concern. It’s similar to us catching due to cold. It is annoying and can be uncomfortable, but it usually goes away on its own. Sometimes, a cough can be a sign of something more serious like a heart problem. Like a foreign object stuck in the throat, pneumonia, or even cancer. If your dog is sick or the cough does not go away, it’s important to see a vet and ask How To Stop Dog Coughing. Most of the time, a cough in dogs is just a minor infection or irritation in their throat or airways, and you can often treat it at home.
To help your dog stop coughing, keep them in a calm and quiet environment. Make sure they drink water to stay hydrated and avoid anything that might irritate their throat, like smoke or strong scents. If the cough persists or gets worse. It is best to take them to the vet for a check-up and proper treatment.
A dog’s cough is unique and can sound like honking or retching. Sometimes followed by gagging, as if they are trying to clear their throat. Kennel cough, caused by various bacteria and viruses, is highly contagious and can affect any dog, but it’s more common in puppies.
There are a few safe home remedies you can try for kennel cough in dogs. But remember, if you are worried about their health. It is best to see a vet.
Steam:
A great way to help your dog with kennel cough at home is by using steam therapy. This means adding moisture to the air around them to soothe their throat and reduce irritation.
You can do this in a few ways:
- Use a humidifier near where your dog rests.
- Take your dog into the bathroom while you have a hot shower or bath so they can breathe in the steamy air.
- If you don’t have a humidifier, place a bowl of hot water close to your dog for them to breathe in the moisture. Just make sure to stay with them to avoid accidents.
It is important to note that steam therapy isn’t suitable for certain breeds like Pugs or English Bulldogs. Because it can make their cough worse and be risky for them.
Avoiding Smoke and other irritants:
Smoke can be harmful to any animal, especially those already dealing with an infection. If dogs breathe in smoke, it can cause:
- Burns in the throat from the heat.
- Less oxygen reaching their body.
- Toxicity from the things in the smoke.
If your dog has a cough, it’s important to keep them away from smoke. This includes smoke from wildfires, cigarettes, or outdoor fires. Smoke can irritate their throat and make their immune system work harder.
To protect your dog from smoke, move them to a smoke-free area. If the smoke is from a wildfire or outdoor fire, close windows to keep it out. And if someone is smoking, ask them to do it away from your dog.
Use a harness:
A helpful home remedy for your dog’s kennel cough is switching their collar to a harness. Dr. Greenstein suggests this because a harness puts less pressure on their throat. This change can prevent your dog’s throat from getting more irritated.
Rest:
Rest and relaxation are essential for your dog’s recovery from a cough. Their bodies need energy to fight infections. So plenty of rest helps replenish that energy. To help them relax and rest more:
- Use calming or heated dog beds.
- Add soft blankets for extra comfort.
- Consider a crate cover for a cozy, secure feeling.
- Warm up a blanket or towel in the dryer to create a snug spot for them to nap.
These simple changes can encourage your dog to rest and recover better.
Honey:
Another very important thing that you should use for the treatment of the dog cough. This thing is used for the treatment of human cough too. Honey has been a natural remedy for ages due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It makes it great for a dog’s cough. It can soothe their throat from frequent coughing.
You can give your dog about 1 teaspoon of honey with their meals to ease their irritated throat. You can put it on their food, and let them lick it from a spoon. Additionally, you can mix it with warm water and give it to them using a syringe.
However, honey isn’t suitable for diabetic or obese dogs due to its high sugar content. In such cases, it’s best to opt for non-food remedies.
FAQs:
What can I give my dog to stop coughing?
There are many home remedies that are used to stop the dog from coughing. But giving plenty of fluid to dogs is one of the best remedies ever. Hydration is crucial for dogs when they are sick, just like for humans. It helps them replace lost water and soothes their throat irritation. Offering low-sodium chicken broth or homemade bone broth can keep them hydrated and happy during their recovery.
Why is my dog coughing like something is stuck in his throat?
If your dog starts coughing violently, gags tries to swallow often, or licks their lips frequently. It could mean something is stuck in their throat. This might be a foreign object or material they accidentally inhaled.
How do I stop my dog from coughing and gagging?
The treatment for your dog’s cough or gagging depends on the cause. If it’s a short-term issue due to an illness. Your vet may prescribe medications like antibiotics, steroids, or cough suppressants to help them recover.
Will dog coughing go away?
Kennel’s cough is often mild and can resolve on its own. Still, vets may prescribe medications to speed up recovery and prevent complications. If you think your dog has kennel cough. It is best to have them checked by a vet to be sure.
Can I give my dog honey for a cough?
Honey can be good for dogs with kennel cough due to its antioxidants, enzymes, and flavonoids. Manuka honey, in particular, might help ease symptoms. The dosage should be based on your dog’s size.
Conclusion:
The above article contains complete information about the remedies that are used in the treatment of a dog’s cough. I have almost given all remedies whether these are common and important. You can use any of the above remedies for the dog’s treatment. These are all helpful to your dog whenever it is disturbing you through its cough.