There are many reasons that your dog could develop a cough. Canine coughs often sound worse than they really are, and this condition doesn't typically require medical attention. While there is a chance that it is a symptom of a more serious health problem, you can try these DIY remedies for dog cough before seeking veterinary care.
It is important to note that if the cough is accompanied by other symptoms (like fever, lethargy, vomiting or diarrhea), you need to call your vet as soon as possible. If there are no other symptoms, you can give it a few days before scheduling an appointment. If the cough lasts more than 5 days without getting any better, you should call your vet just in case.
If a human member of your family was feeling under the weather, what would you do? You would encourage them to get plenty of rest and drink some extra fluids, right? Well, the same goes for your canine family members. Pair some rest and fluids with one of these DIY remedies for dog cough, and your pooch should be feeling better in no time!
DIY Remedies for Dog Cough
1. Steam/Humidifier
When a child has a cough, their doctor may recommend a steam treatment or placing a humidifier in their bedroom. Bringing your dog in to sit in the steamy bathroom while you shower can help loosen up congestion and help their coughs be a little more productive.
It's like sitting in a room with a giant humidifier.
Steam helps to expand your dog's lungs, which gets more oxygen and nutrients flowing through his body. You can also put Fido’s bedding in the bathroom and sit on the floor with him while letting the hot water run for about 30 minutes.
If you live in an especially dry area, a humidifier could make a big difference for a coughing dog. You can also use essential oils alongside it to reap even more benefits.
Putting a humidifier near your dog’s kennel or bed will help moisturize the air, which means that his cough will be a little less dry and less uncomfortable. It also helps prevent your pup's nose and eyes from getting dried out as well.
2. Raw Honey
Honey has many proven benefits, and it has been used for different ailments in animals for centuries. In both animal and human trials, it was also shown to be effective at suppressing coughing. If your adult dog has a mild cough or seems to be suffering from allergy symptoms, try a teaspoon of raw honey to alleviate a cough and runny eyes or nose.
Honey is a natural anti-inflammatory, and helps fight viruses and bacteria in the body. Its properties makes it one of the most effective DIY remedies for dog cough. It’s important to use raw honey so that all of its medicinal properties haven't been cooked out by the pasteurizing process. You can also purchase honey that is specifically made for dogs, like this option.
SIMILAR: 5 Dog Pain Relief Home Remedies
3. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil provides many benefits to dogs. It contains medium-chain triglycerides that have natural medicinal properties, including suppressing a mild cough.
Dogs with a cough (and healthy dogs too) can consume about a tablespoon of coconut oil a day mixed with their food. Your dog may even eat it plain as a healthy, natural treat! Coconut oil has natural antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties. You can continue adding it to your dog’s food every other day after they have recovered from their cough to help ward off other health problems in the future.
4. Hydration
As I mentioned, make sure your dog is staying hydrated. Water is important in flushing toxins out of the body. If your pet doesn’t want to drink water, try some of these tips to entice him. You can also try giving your pet a few ice cubes to chew on.
Adding a bit of bone broth to your pup's water could also make it more appetizing. One great trick is to make ice cubes out of diluted beef or chicken broth. Your dog will think it's a treat, and he will eat them while also getting hydrated at the same time.
If you use one (or more) of these DIY remedies for dog cough and allow your pup to get plenty of rest, you should notice the cough getting progressively better over the next few days. If you see any other symptoms develop or the cough continues to get worse, it's best to call your vet and ask for their advice. It is likely they will want to see your dog for a quick exam.
READ NEXT: What To Do If Your Dog Coughs Up Blood?
