Heart Cough in Dogs - How to Prolong Their Life

Heart Cough in Dogs – What You Need to Know

What can I do to ensure that my dog ​​has the longest and healthiest life possible? This question concerns me not only as a sociologist, but also as a dog owner.

As our dogs get older, their hearts also get weaker - often unnoticed. Some dogs remain fit and active well into old age, so it's hard to believe that something is wrong.

A symptom that can occur in dogs with a weakened heart valve (often due to age, but not always) is what is known as cardiac cough .

How do you recognize a heart cough?

Cardiac cough sounds like your dog is trying to cough something up. It is a harsh, stabbing cough that often repeats desperately, with no visible relief.

But don't panic: Especially in winter, older dogs can occasionally develop a "normal" cough. Cardiac cough, on the other hand, often lasts for several weeks, improves in milder weather and worsens in the next cold period .

The dangerous thing about cardiac cough is that it is often associated with water in the lungs – a considerable burden for your dog.

Interestingly, dogs with a heart cough can otherwise appear to be in good health - they play, run and catch balls as if everything is fine. Often they only cough in the morning or evening and not during the day.

What can you do?

If you suspect that your dog has a heart cough, be sure to see a vet. A heart ultrasound is usually used to make the diagnosis. Your dog will then often be given diuretic tablets to help alleviate the symptoms. Please note: These tablets can significantly increase your dog's thirst. Therefore, make sure that there is always enough fresh water available and that your dog has regular opportunities to empty its bladder.

Have your veterinarian explain everything to you in detail and make sure you understand all instructions.

How can you further support your dog?

• Fresh air: Spend as much time as possible outside with your dog – forests, meadows and clean air have a positive effect on his health.
• Social interaction: Let your dog interact with other dogs when he enjoys it.
• Free running: Give him the opportunity to run freely, sniff and relax when he is outside.
• Exercise and relaxation: A good balance between activity and rest improves your dog’s well-being.
• Avoid leash stress: With the anti-stress harness STURMFREI® you avoid unnecessary leash excitement and ensure that your dog behaves more calmly on the leash in the long term.

With a good vet at your side, the coughing will quickly be a thing of the past and your dog will be relieved. We wish you a long and wonderful time together! ❤️