Reviewed by Dr. Fiona Lee
Imagine trying to take a deep breath, but your chest feels tight, your lungs struggle to expand and every inhale is a fight. Whether you're human or a dog, that sensation is all too real for those struggling with respiratory issues.
While true asthma—like what's seen in humans and cats—is rare in dogs, canines can still suffer from similar respiratory conditions. In veterinary practice, what's often referred to as "asthma" in dogs is usually chronic bronchitis or allergic bronchitis. These conditions cause inflammation and narrowing of the airways, making it tough for dogs to breathe. For simplicity, we'll use the term “canine asthma" here as a catchall to describe these asthma-like symptoms in dogs—even if it's not technically the same disease.
Read on for everything you need to know about canine “asthma": how to spot it, manage environmental triggers and explore treatment options to help your dog breathe easier.
Can Dogs Have Asthma?
Technically speaking, dogs don't get asthma in the same way humans or even cats do. What's often called “canine asthma" is usually either chronic bronchitis or allergic bronchitis—two inflammatory airway conditions that can cause similar breathing difficulties.
Allergic bronchitis is an inflammatory response to airborne allergens like pollen, smoke, dust mites or mold. It can affect dogs of any breed or age.
Chronic bronchitis, on the other hand, is a long-term, progressive condition characterized by persistent inflammation, excessive mucus production, and airway narrowing, leading to irreversible changes in the lungs over time. This form tends to show up more frequently in small-breed dogs.
In both conditions, dogs can experience coughing, wheezing and labored breathing—symptoms that mirror what we typically associate with asthma in people.
How Can You Tell If Your Dog Has Asthma?
Common signs and symptoms of canine asthma include:1
- Wheezing and persistent coughing for longer than two months
- Heavy panting
- Labored breathing or shortness of breath
- Gagging or hacking sounds, as if trying to clear the throat
- Fatigue or reluctance to exercise
- Blue-tinged gums due to lack of oxygen
If you're wondering, “How can you tell if your dog has asthma?" the best answer is a veterinary diagnosis. There isn't any specific testing for diagnosing asthma in dogs. However, your vet can recommend diagnostic exams such as X-rays or heartworm testing to determine their overall state of health and rule out other possible causes of the symptoms.2
A severe respiratory episode in a dog with allergic bronchitis can be alarming, but it's important to note that these episodes aren't typically referred to as “asthma attacks," and signs like wheezing or respiratory distress are actually uncommon in most cases. That said, if your dog is visibly struggling to breathe or showing signs of respiratory distress—or if she collapses—it could indicate a more serious issue. Seek emergency veterinary care immediately.3
How Do Dogs Get Asthma?
Asthma attacks happen when a dog has an allergic reaction to an irritant or allergen.4 Several factors can contribute to the development of asthma in dogs, including:
Environmental triggers
Dust, smoke, pollen, mold and strong chemicals can irritate a dog's airways and are common triggers for asthma and allergies in dogs.5 Exposure to secondhand smoke is especially problematic, as it can contribute to dog asthma, allergies and other respiratory issues, including lung cancer.6
Allergies
Dogs with allergic reactions may develop asthma as an immune system response. Common household allergens include dust mites, dander from other pets, mold spores and cleaning products.7
Genetics and breed predisposition
Dogs with smaller nostrils, narrower throats and restricted airways—such as Pugs, Bulldogs and other brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds—often experience breathing difficulties due to their anatomy.8
Underlying health conditions
Conditions like bronchitis or heart disease can contribute to respiratory distress and sometimes may be mistaken for the same symptoms as asthma.4
How To Treat Asthma in Dogs
Dog asthma treatment involves a combination of veterinary care and lifestyle adjustments. If your dog has been diagnosed with asthma, treatment options may include:
Inhalers and medications
Just like humans, dogs with asthma can benefit from bronchodilators and corticosteroids to reduce airway inflammation.7 Your vet may also prescribe albuterol sulfate, which is given to human asthma sufferers. But never give your dog medication without consulting a vet, and remember that medicine intended for human patients can be harmful to animals.4
Oxygen therapy
In critical situations, a vet may administer oxygen therapy to stabilize a dog experiencing a severe asthma attack.9
Antihistamines
If allergies are a trigger, your vet may recommend medication like antihistamines to help reduce inflammation and ease breathing difficulties.7
Lifestyle adjustments
Reducing environmental triggers, such as eliminating smoke exposure and improving air filtration at home, can make a significant difference in managing asthma symptoms.6
Emergency response
If your dog is experiencing an asthma attack or having trouble breathing, remain calm and transport them to a veterinarian immediately. Avoid delaying treatment, as prolonged oxygen deprivation can be life-threatening.9
Tips for Preventing Asthma Attacks
Like many common dog health problems, asthma in dogs cannot always be prevented. But you can take steps to minimize the risk of attacks and improve your dog's breathing comfort:
- Reduce allergens in the home: Regularly clean your home to eliminate dust, pet dander and pollen. Vacuuming with a HEPA filter and using an air purifier can help maintain better air quality.
- Avoid smoke exposure: Secondhand smoke is a major trigger for canine asthma. Keep your dog away from cigarettes, fireplaces and other sources of smoke.
- Monitor outdoor time: If your dog is sensitive to pollen or other outdoor allergens, limit time outside during peak allergy seasons and wash their paws and fur after walks.
- Use proper ventilation: Ensure your home has good airflow to prevent the buildup of airborne irritants. Consider using hypoallergenic bedding and avoiding harsh cleaning chemicals.
- Manage your dog's environment: Limit exposure to irritants like air fresheners, strong perfumes and scented candles, which can worsen asthma symptoms. Use pet-safe alternatives, vacuum regularly and consider an air purifier to reduce allergens.
- Keep your dog at a healthy weight: This can help reduce the strain on their respiratory system.
- Watch for warning signs: If you notice any signs of dog asthma worsening, consult a vet for adjustments to treatment and prevention strategies.
Pets Best Is Here To Help
Dog asthma is a serious but manageable condition. Recognizing the signs of dog asthma and understanding what triggers it can help you keep your pet healthy and comfortable.
Pet insurance may help you cover the costs of asthma-related treatments, from diagnostic tests to long-term medication. And with a policy from Pets Best, you gain access to a 24/7 Pet Helpline, ensuring expert veterinary guidance whenever your pet needs it. Breathe easy and enjoy a happy, active life with your dog.
Sources/ Citations
- “Dog Asthma: Signs and How to Help," (n.d.), The Village Vets, https://thevillagevets.com/blog/dog-asthma/
- “Causes, Symptoms & Treatments for Asthma in Dogs," (8/2020), Germantown Parkway Animal Hospital, https://www.germantownah.com/site/blog-memphis-vet/2020/08/17/causes-symptoms-treatments-for-asthma-in-dogs
- “Respiratory Distress in Pets," Roxanne Hawn (1/2023), American Animal Hospital Association, https://www.aaha.org/trends-magazine/january-2023/cc-respiratory-distress/
- “Help! I think my dog is having an asthma attack! What should I do?" (8/2023), Veterinary Specialty Center of Tucson, https://www.vscot.com/site/blog/2023/08/14/dog-asthma
- “Asthma in Dogs: Signs, Symptoms & Treatment Options," (12/2020), LakeCross Veterinary Hospital, https://www.lakecross.com/site/blog-huntersville-vet/2020/12/30/asthma-dogs-signs-symptoms-treatment-options
- “The Effects of Secondhand Smoke on Pets," Malcolm Weir et al. (2024), VCA Animal Hospitals, https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/the-effects-of-second-hand-smoke-on-pets
- “Winter Allergies in Pets: Tips for Reducing Indoor Allergens," Amy Haarstad, (n.d.), Haarstad Veterinary Dermatology, https://www.haarstadveterinarydermatology.com/blogs/news/winter-allergies-in-pets
- “Brachycephalic (Short-nosed) Dogs," Amy Young (9/2023), UC Davis Veterinary Medicine, https://healthtopics.vetmed.ucdavis.edu/health-topics/brachycephalic-short-nosed-dogs
- “Allergic Bronchitis in Dogs & Cats," (n.d.) Ethos Veterinary Health, https://www.ethosvet.com/blog-post/asthma-and-bronchitis