Can Dogs Have Asthma? What Pet Parents Should Know

If your pup has been wheezing, coughing, or struggling to catch their breath, you might be wondering — can dogs have asthma? The answer is yes, dogs can have asthma, though it’s pretty rare. While asthma can make daily life harder, the good news is that with the right care, your dog can still chase squirrels, roll in the grass, and live their best life.

This guide breaks down what causes dog asthma, how to spot the signs, and what you can do to help your pup breathe easier. You may also want to check in with your vet about other potential causes of breathing problems, such as allergies, obesity, brachycephaly, heartworms, or even the common canine cold.

How do dogs get asthma?

Asthma in dogs is much less common than in humans and cats. Vets often call it allergic bronchitis, a chronic condition where the airways become inflamed, making it harder for dogs to breathe. 

Asthma symptoms in dogs are often triggered by environmental allergens like pollen, dust, mold, cigarette smoke, or strong scents, causing the airways to swell and restrict airflow.

Asthma and allergies often get confused, but there’s a key difference: allergies can cause sneezing, itching, and skin irritation, while asthma specifically affects the lungs and airways. If your pup wheezes or struggles to catch their breath after being exposed to certain triggers, it’s more likely asthma than just seasonal allergies.

And while any dog can develop asthma, some are more at risk than others. Brachycephalic breeds like Pugs, Bulldogs, and Terriers — with their adorable (but sometimes high-maintenance) flat faces — are at higher risk because their airways are naturally more restricted.

Common dog asthma symptoms 

Dog asthma symptoms can sneak up on you. Some start as mild, occasional coughs, while others turn into full-blown breathing troubles. Here’s what to watch for:

Wheezing or whistling sounds

If your dog’s breathing sounds like a squeaky toy or a leaky air vent, their airways might be inflamed. Wheezing is especially noticeable when they’re resting or after exposure to dust, pollen, or strong scents like air fresheners.

Persistent coughing or hacking

Occasional coughing isn’t a big deal, but if your pup sounds like they’re trying to clear their throat all day, asthma could be the culprit. This cough is often dry and persistent, unlike the wet coughs seen with infections.

Labored breathing, especially during exercise

If short walks leave your dog winded, or they take longer to recover from playtime, asthma may be making it harder for them to catch their breath. Flaring nostrils and exaggerated chest movements are also signs they’re working extra hard to breathe.

Blue-tinged gums or tongue (severe cases)

In serious asthma attacks, a lack of oxygen can cause the gums or the tongue to turn bluish or gray. If you notice this symptom, always seek emergency vet care immediately.

When you catch these asthma symptoms early, you and your vet have the best shot at keeping your pup’s breathing under control. ​​While asthma isn’t something dogs outgrow, the right care can keep them feeling good. And this gives them more time for what they love: sprinting across the yard or just soaking up the sunshine.

How is asthma diagnosed in dogs? 

Figuring out if your dog has asthma isn’t as simple as taking a test. Since there’s no single way to diagnose it, vets have to play detective by ruling out other possible causes first.

Physical examination and history

Your vet will start with a thorough exam, listening for wheezing, crackles, or other breathing abnormalities. They’ll also ask about your dog’s medical history, symptoms, and exposure to common triggers like dust, pollen, or smoke.

Chest X-rays

To get a better look inside your dog’s lungs, vets often use chest X-rays. These can show signs of inflammation or airway changes that suggest asthma. They’re also helpful for ruling out lookalike conditions like heart disease, infections, or even tumors.

Heartworm testing

Heartworm disease can cause coughing, breathing difficulties, and post-exercise fatigue, making it easy to mistake it for asthma. A simple blood test helps vets rule it out before confirming an asthma diagnosis.

Allergy testing

If your vet suspects certain allergens are making your dog’s asthma worse, allergy testing can help pinpoint the biggest triggers. Once you know what’s causing flare-ups, you can adjust their environment to minimize exposure and keep symptoms under control.

Advanced testing: bronchoscopy and lavage

In more complex cases, a bronchoscopy (using a tiny camera to examine the airways) or a bronchoalveolar lavage (flushing a small amount of fluid into the lungs to collect cells for analysis) may be performed.

Getting a diagnosis for asthma takes time, and sometimes lots of diagnostic tests. But once your vet finds the signs, you’ll have a plan to help your dog breathe better and live a happy life.

Treatment for dogs with asthma

Helping a dog with asthma is all about two things: the right meds and keeping their environment as trigger-free as possible. With a solid treatment plan, your pup can live a happy, active life.

Medications

• Corticosteroids: Prednisone and other steroids help calm inflammation in the airways, making it easier for your dog to breathe.
• Bronchodilators: Albuterol inhalers (like Proventil or Ventolin) quickly open the airways by relaxing the airway muscles, making breathing easier during an asthma attack. Some dogs use inhalers designed just for pets.
• Antihistamines: If allergies are triggering asthma episodes, antihistamines can help keep symptoms under control.

Environmental adjustments

• Cut down on triggers. Smoke, dust, pollen, and strong perfumes can all make asthma worse. Keeping your home clean and smoke-free helps.
• Use air purifiers. These help filter out airborne allergens, creating a cleaner space for your pup.

What to do during an asthma attack

• Stay calm. Your dog can sense your stress, which may make things worse.
• Follow your vet’s instructions, whether that means using an inhaler or giving medication.
• Know when to go to the vet. If your dog’s breathing doesn’t improve or their gums turn blue, get them emergency care immediately.

By managing triggers, following your vet’s guidance, and having the right treatment plan, you can help your pup breathe easier and stay active for years to come.

How to help a dog with asthma lead a full life 

Asthma doesn’t have to slow your pup down. With the right care, they can breathe easier and enjoy life to the fullest. 

Often, that starts with diet and weight management. Extra weight makes breathing harder, so keeping your dog at a healthy weight is key. Work with your vet to choose a balanced diet and ensure strict portion control. Regular weigh-ins help monitor progress and keep asthma symptoms in check.

Staying active is also important, but not all workouts are asthma-friendly. Regular, moderate exercise helps keep your pup’s lungs strong. Avoid activity during high pollen counts, extreme temperatures, or poor air quality days. Short walks and gentle play sessions are ideal.

Finally, do your best to create a stress-free space for your pup. Ensure good airflow, comfortable sleeping areas, and a quiet place for them to rest when needed.

To make them more comfortable, swap collars for harnesses. Traditional collars can put pressure on your dog’s airway, making it harder to breathe. A well-fitted harness reduces strain and makes walks more comfortable.

Asthma in dogs may sound scary, but with the right treatment and a little extra care, your pup can still enjoy playtime, snuggles, and all their favorite activities. Unexpected health issues can be stressful and expensive, but pet insurance can help provide some peace of mind. Find out how Pumpkin Dog Insurance plans can help cover up to 90% of eligible vet bills in the future so you can focus on care, not costs.

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