Respiratory Problems In Labrador Retrievers

Problems associated to respiratory or breathing may occur in Labrador Retrievers. Whether it may be just a simple sneezing problem or a cough caused by heart problem, these health issues should be addressed immediately to prevent it from progressing into a more serious disease that could threaten the life of your ever loyal friend.

Sneezing/nasal discharge
Sneezing and nasal discharge is common in Labrador Retrievers as well as other breeds. It may be caused by minor conditions like hay fever, a foreign object lodged in the nose or by major problems like canine nasal tumors. Dogs also sneeze when they wake up or if they are just laying on their backs. Sneezing itself is not an illness but could be a sign of an illness. A blood coming out of your dog's nose may be a sign of canine nasal tumor or may be just a foreign object lodged in his nasal cavity. Seek veterinary help immediately to diagnose the underlying cause.

Breathing problems
There are some circumstances wherein a dog may experience difficulty in breathing. There are various reasons for this predicament. Reasons for this breathing difficulties include physical obstructions preventing normal air intake, chest injury, pneumonia, tumors, heart failure, poisoning, an allergic reaction, pain, smoke inhalation, heatstroke and damaged lung or diaphragm. Rapid and shallow breathing may just be a response to conditions like shock whereas labored breathing may be a sign of heart failure or tumor. Noisy breathing may indicate that there may be an obstruction or foreign object present.

Coughing
Cough is not unusual to dogs. It could be caused by allergy, pollution, infection or foreign material in the air passages. Other causes include inhalation or ingestion of poisonous substances, fluid in the chest cavity, worms, heart conditions, chest diseases or injuries. If the coughing gets worse, visit your vet for help. Cough in dogs may be contagious if it is caused by the bacterium Bordatella bronchiseptica. This condition is referred to as canine cough or kennel cough. Canine cough is characterized by a harsh, dry cough that lasts for about five days after contact with a carrier of the disease. This cough causes loss of appetite, depression and nasal discharge as well. Vaccine against Bordatella should be administered to prevent your dog from acquiring this disease.

If you suspect that your dog is having problems related to breathing or respiratory, consult your vet immediately for diagnosis and proper treatment.

Richard Cussons has written articles of various breeds including Labrador Retrievers. Discover tips on Labrador dog training at labradorsavvy.com.