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Chronic bronchitis in dogs
Last reviewed: 05.07.2025
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Bronchitis affects middle-aged dogs of both sexes. It is characterized by an acute inflammatory reaction of the inner lining of the small airways. The diagnosis of chronic bronchitis should be considered in any case of coughing for more than two months.
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Causes of Bronchitis in Dogs
In most cases of the disease, the cause of chronic bronchitis remains unknown. Although some cases are preceded by kennel cough, infectious agents usually play a role only as secondary agents. Household dust, cigarette smoke, and other atmospheric irritants contribute to the development of inflammation in the bronchi.
Symptoms of Bronchitis in Dogs
A sign of chronic bronchitis is a hard, dry cough that may or may not be productive. The cough is triggered by exercise and excitement. Coughing episodes often end with gagging, retching, and coughing up foamy saliva. This may be mistaken for vomiting. The dog's appetite and weight do not change.
Untreated chronic bronchitis damages the airways and causes infected mucus and pus to accumulate in the widened airways, a condition called bronchiectasis. Chronic cough can also cause the alveoli (air sacs in the lungs) to enlarge, a condition called emphysema. These two conditions are irreversible and gradually progress to chronic lung disease and congestive heart failure.
Treatment of bronchitis in dogs
General treatment measures include eliminating air pollutants such as dust and cigarette smoke. Minimize stress, fatigue, and excitement. Overweight dogs should be placed on a weight-loss diet. Walking on a leash is good exercise, but do not overdo it. To avoid throat constriction, switch from a collar to a chest harness or bridle.
Medication is aimed at reducing bronchial inflammation. Your veterinarian may prescribe a course of corticosteroids for 10 to 14 days. If this is effective, your dog may be placed on a maintenance dose every day or every other day. Bronchodilators, such as theophylline or albuterol, make it easier for air to pass through and reduce respiratory distress. They are good for dogs with stridor and spasms in the airways.
If the cough worsens, a secondary bacterial infection is likely to have set in. In this case, you should seek veterinary help because antibiotics should be used. Cough suppressants may be helpful for persistent coughing episodes, but they should only be used for a short period of time because these medications suppress the immune system and prevent the purulent mucus from being expelled. Expectorants can be used frequently, as needed.
The effectiveness of treatment can vary. Some dogs achieve almost complete recovery with routine treatment, while others require careful individual selection of medications.