Dog wheezing may be an alarming sound, but this is not necessarily caused by a severe problem. The wheezing occurs when the air ways are overly contracted and the oxygen does not have a clear passage, so it will cause the wheezing sound. The causes of wheezing may range from allergies to heartworms.
Allergies
Allergies can cause the contraction of the air passages and wheezing. The allergies may be caused by a number of airborne irritants such as tree pollens, dust mites, pesticides, chemicals or smoke.
Other symptoms indicating that the dog has allergies include sneezing, coughing, dermatitis or skin itchiness.
You may install some air purifier and humidifiers and get suitable treatment to manage the allergic reactions in your pet.
Kennel Cough
The kennel cough is a respiratory disease that will cause dry coughing and wheezing. The cough irritates the air ways and this causes wheezing.
The kennel cough is contracted through air from other infected canines and will typically go away without treatment in up to 2 weeks.
Asthma
Asthma is a rare condition in dogs and may also occur as a result of the dog’s exposure to airborne allergens. The dog may cough, sneeze and make wheezing sounds.
Bronchitis
Bronchitis is a respiratory disease that affects the dog’s lungs and brochial tubes, which will be swollen. The disease will cause breathing problems and coughing. Wheezing may also occur.
Cough suppressants and anti inflammatory medication should be administrated to manage the disease. If the dog is obese, a diet will be recommended to relieve the symptoms of bronchitis and make the dog’s breathing easier.
Heat Stroke
Heat stroke can occur as a result of an exposure to elevated temperatures or sun. The dog may pant, wheeze, vomit, have pale gums, have seizures or collapse.
The dog must be taken to the vet immediately; you should also make sure to cool the dog down by applying some cold compresses.
Heartworms
Heartworms are parasites that lodge in the heart of the cat. Heartworms rarely show early symptoms and by the time the condition is discovered, it may be too late. Wheezing may occur in a cat affected by heartworms. This is caused by the fact that the heartworms develop and block the blood flow, reducing the oxygen supply.
Heartworm preventive drugs are available and recommended for all canines, as the disease can be fatal.
Heart Problems
If the dog starts wheezing and coughing after exercising, these symptoms may indicate a heart problem. Heart problems are more frequent in older and obese dogs, but may occur in younger dogs as well. Consult the vet for a clear diagnosis.
Dogs may wheeze due to different irritants that affect the air passages. The wheezing should last no longer than 20 to 30 minutes. If the wheezing persists, this may indicate a health problem that needs attention. In addition to wheezing, the dog may experience other symptoms such as lack of appetite, sneezing, coughing, panting, pale gums, vomiting or nose bleeding.