Pneumonia in dogs can range from mild to severe. If the ability to breathe is compromised, it can become an emergency. This disease can affect dogs of any breed or age, but certain types of pneumonia are more likely to affect some dogs more than others.

Pneumonia in dogs is the inflammation of the lungs and airways, resulting in fluid build up and consequently difficulty breathing. There are different types of pneumonia, aspiration pneumonia being one of the most common types in dogs. Depending on its cause and severity, if not treated promptly, it can be life-threatening.

What is pneumonia in dogs?

Pneumonia is the inflammation of the lungs and airways in response to a foreign substance or an infectious organism entering the lungs.

There are several causes of pneumonia, including:

• Aspiration pneumonia: due to inhalation of mouth or stomach contents such as vomit, food, chemicals, fluids, or foreign materials

• Bacteria

• Viruses

• Fungus

• Parasites

• Immune-mediated conditions alter the body’s natural defence mechanisms resulting in being more vulnerable to infectious diseases

• Inhalation of chemicals, smoke

What are the symptoms of pneumonia in dogs?

You might notice some or all of the following signs:

• Coughing

• Difficulty breathing

• White, yellow, or green nasal discharge

• Panting or fast breathing rate

• Lack of appetite

• Lethargy

Are some dogs at higher risk of pneumonia than others?

• Age: Puppies and older dogs are more likely than adults to have bacterial pneumonia due to primary infection.

• Breed:

  • Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds such as Pugs and Bulldogs

  • Labrador and Golden Retriever

  • Cocker and English Springer Spaniel

• Underling diseases that can lead to aspiration pneumonia: Laryngeal paralysis, reflux, megaoesophagus, hiatal hernia, seizures

How is pneumonia in dogs diagnosed?

Vets usually diagnose pneumonia based on:

• History taking

• Dog’s symptoms

• Hands-on examination

• Chest x-rays

• Blood tests

On some occasions, vets may need to do further testing, such as:

• Tracheal or bronchoalveolar wash to collect a sample of cells in the trachea or lungs under anaesthesia.

• Bacterial culture and sensitivity testing. The fluid sample is cultured to look for any bacteria growth, identify the type and determine which antibiotics are more effective.

What’s the treatment for pneumonia in dogs?

Treatment depends on the type of pneumonia and underlying illnesses.

The severity of the disease will also determine the intensity of treatment.

• Mild cases of pneumonia can be managed without hospitalisation, using just medication and home care.

• Moderate to severe cases require hospitalisation with 24/7 care and special equipment.

Treatment includes some of the following:

• Oral or injectable antibiotics, usually for several weeks.

• Parasite or antifungal treatment when necessary.

• Oxygen supplementation via an oxygen mask or special cage.

• Nebulisation and coupage: Steam or inhaled medication can help loosen lung secretions before a caregiver gently claps on the sides of the dog’s chest to help them cough out the fluid.

• Bronchodilators may be used to relax and open the airways.

• Fluid therapy: hydration through the vein using a drip.

How to look after a dog diagnosed with pneumonia

Following your vet’s treatment recommendations:

• Keep them rested

• Restrict intense exercise activity

• Monitor their eating

• Monitor their breathing rate

• Nebulisation and coupage once or twice a day, as recommended by your vet.

  • Place them in the bathroom during a shower so they can breathe the steam

  • Gently clap on both sides of their chest

Tips on how to prevent pneumonia in dogs Prevention

• Worm your dog regularly with adequate parasite preventatives as recommended by your vet

• Maintain good air quality in your dog's living spaces, and avoid dusty or mouldy environments

• Keep your dog and their food and water bowls separate from your other pets to avoid spreading infectious causes of pneumonia

• If your dog has been coughing, take them to see a vet.

• Be vigilant for signs of pneumonia if your dog has an underlying condition that increases their risk, such as laryngeal paralysis, reflux, megaoesophagus, or after a seizure. The sooner your dog is treated the better the outcome.

When do you need to call the vet?

If your dog shows any of the following signs, call your local vet now:

• Excessive panting

• Difficulty breathing

• Blue or grey tongue or gums

• Fast breathing rate

• Failure to respond to treatment

Call us at Joii if you need help:

• With home nebulisers and coupage.

• Checking your dog's breathing rate.