Vet Approved Guide to Chronic Bronchitis in Dogs 2025 🐶🩺

By Dr. Duncan Houston BVSc

Chronic bronchitis in dogs—also referred to as canine COPD—is a long-standing inflammation of the bronchi, leading to a persistent cough. This 2025 guide covers causes, symptoms, diagnostic strategies, and treatment options to help your dog breathe easier. 💨❤️

🔍 What Is Chronic Bronchitis?

When airway inflammation persists for more than 2 consecutive months without another identifiable cause, it is considered chronic bronchitis. It’s a non-infectious, progressive disease affecting small airways in the lungs.

📍 Causes & Risk Factors

• Environmental irritants: Smoke, air pollution, alloys, pulpal bacteria—especially in dogs with dental disease.
• Breed predisposition: Common in middle-aged small breeds, like Cocker Spaniels and Westies.
• Obesity: Increases respiratory strain and worsens symptoms.
• Secondary airway collapse: Bronchiectasis or tracheal collapse may occur as inflammation damages the lungs.

⚠️ Signs & Symptoms

• Daily **dry, hacking cough**, often more intense after rest, exercise, or excitement.
• Gagging, wheezing, or crackles heard via stethoscope.
• Exercise intolerance, breathing difficulty, and fainting in severe cases.
• Possible cyanosis (blue gums) due to low oxygen.

🔬 Diagnostic Approach

• History & physical exam: Chronic cough >2 months with no other illnesses.
• Chest radiographs: “Tram‑lines” or “doughnuts” pattern and airway thickening.
• Chest X‑rays: Rule out heart disease, pneumonia, or cancer.
• Bronchoscopy or BAL: Useful to visualize airways and sample secretions for infection or cancer.
• Bloodwork & fecal tests: Rule out cardiac, parasitic, or systemic causes.

💊 Treatment & Management

1. Anti-Inflammatory Therapy

• Oral corticosteroids: Prednisone to reduce bronchial inflammation.
• Inhaled steroids: Delivered via spacer and facemask, they target airways with fewer side effects.

2. Bronchodilators & Cough Control

• Bronchodilators (e.g., theophylline, albuterol) relax airway muscles.
• Cough suppressants with codeine or hydrocodone ease a persistent dry cough.

3. Supportive & Environmental Therapy

• Weight loss to reduce the respiratory burden.
• Brushing teeth and maintaining oral health to prevent airway infection.
• Humidifiers, steam therapy, or nebulization to help loosen secretions.
• Exercise moderation and using harnesses to reduce airway pressure.
• Remove irritants: no smoke, strong perfumes, or pollutants.

📈 Prognosis & Long-Term Care

• Although the condition cannot be cured, **careful management** can maintain quality of life and reduce symptoms.
• Breeds with CCB may develop bronchiectasis or airway collapse over time.
• Routine follow‑ups (every 6–12 months) with chest X‑rays and exams help adjust therapy early.

📊 Summary Table