When a dog breathes, wheezing can happen if the normal airflow in its airway is obstructed. This causes a whistling sound. The blockage may occur in the windpipe or large bronchi. Different factors like asthma, allergies, mucus, foreign bodies, or infection can cause wheezing. A dog may panic or lie down to breathe better if it feels like it cannot get enough air.
It could be life-threatening if you notice your dog wheezing non-stop, has bluish gums indicating insufficient oxygen supply, or appears uneasy breathing. You must immediately take your dog to an emergency veterinarian.
The Role of Home Remedies in Managing Dog Wheezing
Veterinarians can prescribe conventional treatments for dogs with asthma based on the severity of their condition and accompanying symptoms. Commonly prescribed treatments include bronchodilators and specially-designed steroid inhalers. However, unless a dog has a severe and life-threatening case of asthma that requires long-term medication, it is recommended to wean them off the steroids as soon as possible.
Continuing with these conventional treatments can gradually weaken your dog’s immune system, and using antihistamines for an extended period can adversely affect certain body systems. Prolonged use of steroid medications in dogs can lead to various side effects, including frequent and excessive panting, infections, weight gain, increased appetite, thirst, urination, lethargy, loss of energy, nausea, and vomiting.
Consult Your Veterinarian
It is advisable to consult with your veterinarian about exploring holistic treatments for managing and curing your dog’s asthma to avoid any potential side effects. However, do not discontinue any prescribed medication before discussing it with your vet.
Many believe that over-the-counter bronchodilators and antibiotics are the only ways to treat wheezing in dogs, but this is not true. You can give your pet all-natural home remedies to help ease their wheezing. Consider using these remedies the next time you provide dog-caring techniques to deal with this condition.
Benefits of Holistic and Natural Approaches
A holistic approach to treating wheezing in dogs can provide numerous benefits, especially if you seek an alternative to medication. Natural remedies like herbs, vitamins, supplements, and homeopathic remedies offer a safe and non-invasive way to target the condition’s underlying causes. Here are some benefits of using holistic pet care.
- Whole Pet Approach – Holistic pet care involves treating the symptoms of your pet’s illness and the underlying reasons for their discomfort. Holistic veterinarians aim to achieve a complete diagnosis by taking a comprehensive approach. This differs from simply treating symptoms and ensures that your pet’s health is addressed holistically.
- Different Treatment Options – Dealing with a chronic illness in a pet can be frustrating when you have to rely solely on pharmaceutical treatments. However, holistic treatments like acupuncture, aromatherapy, massage, nutritional therapy, and herbal remedies can address the illness’s symptoms and root causes.
- Natural Pet Care Technique – Although conventional medicine can treat pet illnesses effectively, its side effects sometimes outweigh the benefits. On the other hand, holistic alternatives can offer treatment and relief without causing uncomfortable side effects for your pet.
Natural Remedies for Soothing Dog Wheezing
Holistic veterinary care is a method of treating pet health problems using conventional and alternative treatment techniques. It offers more options because it combines different ways. A holistic veterinarian can create a comprehensive wellness plan for your pet by recommending various treatments.
Natural remedies, like herbs, essential oils, and supplements, can be helpful in soothing your pet’s wheezing. These remedies can help keep the airways clear and reduce inflammation. Here are some natural remedies for dog wheezing.
Herbal Remedies
Herbs like licorice and mullein can be beneficial in soothing a dog’s respiratory system. These herbs help to reduce inflammation and loosen up mucus in the airways so that it can be expelled more easily.
Essential Oils
Essential oils like lavender, peppermint, and eucalyptus can help to relax the airways and reduce inflammation. These oils must be diluted before being administered to your pet, as undiluted essential oils can cause skin irritation or allergies.
Supplements
Vitamin C can help boost a dog’s immune system and respiratory health. Other supplements like omega fatty acids, probiotics, and antioxidants can also help to improve your pet’s respiratory health.
These natural remedies should always be administered under the supervision of a veterinarian or holistic practitioner. They may not work in all cases but can relieve wheezing symptoms in some pets. To ensure that your pet gets the best treatment and care, it is essential to consult with a qualified vet before attempting any of these remedies.
Herbal Treatments to Relieve Dog Wheezing
Herbal treatments for dog wheezing are plant-based medicines that have been used to support health and treat disease for centuries. Herbs can be powerful antioxidants, anti-inflammatory agents, decongestants, and bronchodilators. Here are some herbs that can help relieve the symptoms of wheezing in dogs:
Elecampane Tea
The plant called elecampane, also called elf wort and horse heal, contains alantolactone, an organic compound that can help relax airways in respiratory issues. Further studies have shown that alantolactone can provide therapeutic benefits to airways obstructed or affected by exposure to cigarette smoke.
To use elecampane for dog wheezing, follow these steps: steep a teaspoon of the dried root herb in a cup of hot water for at least 10 minutes. After the mixture cools down completely, you can give it to your dog one teaspoon at a time, twice a day. Alternatively, you can add a couple of teaspoons of the tea to your dog’s water.
Licorice Root
A study suggests that licorice root can prevent the onset of allergic reactions, especially in the respiratory system, by blocking the accumulation of 11-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase. To use licorice root as a natural remedy for your dog’s wheezing, you should steep a teaspoon of it in a cup of hot water for at least 15 minutes. Allow the mixture to sit for a few minutes after it has cooled down completely.
To give your dog licorice root tea, you can give them two teaspoons of it twice a day or add the same amount to their water. Since licorice root tea can be bitter, you may want to add some honey to make it sweeter and easier for your pet to drink.
Echinacea
Echinacea contains a lot of arabinogalactan, which is a starch-like chemical. Studies have shown that arabinogalactan can help treat upper respiratory tract infections and
inflammations. It may also help reduce pain and discomfort caused by otitis media and pharyngotonsillitis, often due to infections and inflammations in the upper respiratory tract.
Using echinacea as a dog wheezing home remedy, you should steep a teaspoon of dried echinacea flowers in hot water for at least 10 minutes. Gently stir to soak all the bits thoroughly. After the mixture cools, give your dog two teaspoons of echinacea tea twice daily. You can also add the same amount of echinacea tea to their water.
Quercetin
Eating foods high in quercetin, like dark cherries, unpeeled apples, and blueberries, can help stabilize respiratory rates when consumed regularly. Studies have shown that animals exposed to cigarette smoke in the past are more likely to normalize their respiratory rates if they consume quercetin-rich foods. If your dog is wheezing, add foods with this antioxidant to its regular diet as a home remedy.
Mullein Leaves
Mullein leaves have been found to stop the growth of bacteria that can cause respiratory infections in dogs, leading to wheezing. To make a home remedy using mullein leaves, steep a teaspoon of either fresh or dried leaves in a cup of hot water for at least 10 minutes and let it cool. You can give your dog one teaspoon of tea twice a day or add a couple of teaspoons to their water.
Homeopathic Remedies for Dog Wheezing
In homeopathy, acute cases are caused by trauma, poisonings, and epidemics. Emergency prescribing could involve severe episodes of chronic diseases, such as seizures and hot spots, but they are not categorized as true acute diseases.
One can refer to a homeopathic first aid book or repertory for such acute diseases to find the appropriate remedy quickly. Usually, the symptoms displayed by the condition are distinct, facilitating the process.
Homeopathic Veterinary Medicine
Homeopathic veterinary medicine can effectively treat cough and flu-related symptoms in pets, relieving the animal and its owners. The medicine’s unique formulation for respiratory disorders is based on the principle of “Similia similibus curantur,” which means that a substance that causes similar symptoms when given in large doses can cure those symptoms in small doses. Therefore, specific medicines can cure different symptoms of the pet if they are present in the case.
Coughing is a common occurrence that can be easily managed. Identifying the underlying cause quickly is vital to avoid delaying the recovery period. In addition to the conventional treatment prescribed by your veterinarian, a homeopathic remedy may be helpful for coughs caused by influenza or respiratory conditions.
Using Essential Oils Safely for Dog Wheezing
Some plants can calm your dog and relieve cold symptoms if used correctly. But be careful with strong essential oils as they may be too strong for your pet and even pose hazards. Consult with your vet before introducing essential oils to your dog’s routine, and use only diluted versions. Some commonly used essential oils to treat colds in dogs are listed below.
- Lavender Oil
- Eucalyptus oil
- Peppermint Oil
To clarify, even if your dog is congested, their sense of smell is still strong. Therefore, using a small amount of pet-safe aromatherapy products, such as a deodorizing spray with diluted eucalyptus and peppermint oils, is recommended.
DIY Steam Therapy for Dog Wheezing
Have you tried using a humidifier to alleviate your winter cold symptoms? It can help to keep your bronchial passages moist and open up airways. This method can also be effective for small and large dogs. However, if you have a flat-faced breed of dog, such as a pug or bulldog, it is not recommended to use steam therapy as it could worsen coughing and potentially be harmful.
Hot Shower in the Bathroom
To help your non-brachycephalic dog, run a hot shower with the bathroom door closed for a few minutes, and then spend 10-15 minutes in the steam with your dog. Alternatively, you can bring your dog into the bathroom while you shower since they tend to follow you there.
To provide more comfort for your dog, you can use a humidifier to generate steam in the area where they usually sleep. Additionally, you may consider adding a small amount of essential oil that is safe for dogs to help them relax even further.
Dietary Adjustments to Help Alleviate Dog Wheezing
Providing your dog with a healthy and balanced diet with all the necessary nutrients to boost its immune system is crucial. Your vet may suggest a low-allergen diet if needed, which can help manage your dog’s symptoms.
Specific Remedies
If your dog carries extra weight, they may struggle more with exercise and have breathing difficulties. Your vet may suggest specific measures to address this issue.
- One way to help your dog lose weight is by feeding them a specific food formulated for weight loss.
- Walking your dog more often for shorter distances can be more beneficial.
- Engaging in activities with your canine companion.
- To ensure your dog is not overeating, try feeding them a smaller portion.
Finally, if your dog is having trouble drinking or eating, consider adding vitamin powder to their food. The vitamins can give them the necessary nutrients while filling them up faster.
These are some options veterinarians, and holistic practitioners may suggest for treating wheezing in dogs. Remember, before trying any home remedies, consult your veterinarian for the best treatment for your beloved pet.
Frequently Asked Questions
1) Are there any herbs that can help alleviate dog wheezing?
Several herbs, such as licorice root, elecampane tea, echinacea, and mullein leaves, can help alleviate wheezing in dogs. It is essential to consult with a veterinarian or holistic practitioner before attempting these remedies.
2) Can homeopathic remedies be effective in treating dog wheezing?
Homeopathic remedies can be effective in treating dog wheezing. For acute cases of wheezing in dogs, refer to a homeopathic first aid book or repertory to quickly find the appropriate remedy.
3) Is it safe to use essential oils for dog wheezing?
It is important to consult your vet before introducing essential oils to your dog’s routine and use only diluted versions. Commonly used essential oils to treat colds in dogs include lavender oil, eucalyptus oil, and peppermint oil.
4) Can I try any home remedies for dog wheezing before consulting a vet?
You should consult a vet before attempting any home remedies for dog wheezing. The vet may have suggestions on how to treat the condition in your pet and provide advice on dietary adjustments and activities that can alleviate the symptoms.
5) Can humidifiers or air purifiers help with dog wheezing at home?
Humidifiers and air purifiers can help with dog wheezing at home by keeping the air moist, which helps open up airways. To provide more comfort for your pet, you can use a humidifier to generate steam in the area where they usually sleep.