If you’re a dog owner, you know that dogs can make all sorts of strange noises. One noise that can be particularly alarming is when your dog sounds like she’s choking. It can be scary to hear, but there are several reasons why your dog might be making this noise.
Reason 1: Kennel Cough
Kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory infection that can cause your dog to cough, gag, and sound like she’s choking. It’s caused by a combination of viruses and bacteria, and is often spread in places where dogs congregate, such as kennels, dog parks, and grooming facilities.
If you suspect your dog has kennel cough, it’s important to take her to the vet for treatment. In most cases, kennel cough will go away on its own, but in some cases it can develop into something more serious.
Reason 2: Collapsed Trachea
A collapsed trachea can also cause your dog to make choking-like sounds. This is a condition where the cartilage rings that support the trachea weaken and collapse, making it difficult for your dog to breathe.
Collapsed trachea is most common in small breed dogs, and can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, obesity, and respiratory infections. Treatment may include medication and/or surgery, depending on the severity of the condition.
Reason 3: Foreign Object
If your dog has swallowed a foreign object, such as a toy or a piece of food, it can get stuck in her throat and cause her to choke. This can be a serious emergency, as the object can block your dog’s airway and prevent her from breathing.
If you suspect your dog has swallowed a foreign object, take her to the vet immediately. Depending on the size and location of the object, your vet may be able to remove it with a special instrument, or your dog may require surgery.
Reason 4: Allergies
Just like people, dogs can have allergies that cause them to cough, sneeze, and make choking-like sounds. Allergies can be caused by a variety of things, including pollen, dust, and certain foods.
If you suspect your dog has allergies, talk to your vet about treatment options. This may include medication, dietary changes, or other interventions to help manage your dog’s symptoms.
Reason 5: Heart Disease
In some cases, your dog’s choking-like sounds may be caused by heart disease. This is a condition where your dog’s heart is unable to pump blood effectively, which can lead to fluid buildup in the lungs and difficulty breathing.
If you suspect your dog has heart disease, it’s important to take her to the vet for diagnosis and treatment. Depending on the severity of the condition, treatment may include medication, dietary changes, or other interventions to help manage your dog’s symptoms.
Conclusion
If your dog is making choking-like sounds, it’s important to take her to the vet for diagnosis and treatment. There are several reasons why your dog might be making these sounds, including kennel cough, collapsed trachea, foreign object, allergies, and heart disease.
By working with your vet to identify the underlying cause of your dog’s symptoms, you can help ensure that she gets the treatment she needs to stay healthy and happy.
