People often think that they catch a cold because they were in a draft or because they were cold. However, this is not entirely correct. When you have a cold with a runny nose and coughing, there is always a virus involved—sometimes a bacterium as well. This also applies to dogs.

Cold Weather

What is true, however, is that viruses and bacteria often survive longer and infect more people and animals when it is cold. High humidity is also often favorable for viruses.
In this way, cold and wet weather can be a risk factor for catching a cold. If a dog is cold or exposed to a draft, it can also become more susceptible to viruses. This is because the dog uses more energy to stay warm, leaving less energy available for the immune system. This is why a dog's immunity is lower in cold conditions.

Nasal Mucosa

Cold weather conditions also affect the blood vessels in your dog's nasal mucosa, causing them to constrict. This also applies to the blood vessels in the throat and airways. When these mucous membranes receive less blood flow, fewer antibodies and active white blood cells from the immune system reach them. If a dog inhales viruses under these conditions, the viruses will be less effectively combated. This increases the likelihood that viruses or bacteria will cause an infection in the upper respiratory tract. Additionally, inhaling cold air can bring more bacteria into the nose, making the nose and throat more sensitive to infection.
Viruses cause illnesses in both humans and animals, particularly in the fall and winter. But the weather alone is not the cause. Knowing this can help you better prevent and address respiratory diseases.

Respiratory Diseases in Dogs

Dogs can develop several respiratory diseases, such as:

• Kennel cough
• Bronchitis
• Asthma
• Allergic rhinitis
• Throat inflammation
• Cough due to heart failure, tumors, or lungworms

Help with Coughing

Is your dog coughing? And does the cough not go away after a day? Then consult your veterinarian. For dogs with recurring respiratory problems, various supplements are available to support the airways and boost immunity. Depending on the cause of the respiratory problems, you can choose a herbal extract to relieve the cough or a supplement containing thymoquinone from black cumin and cannabinoids from clove to reduce inflammation and combat allergic reactions.

Herbs, Black Cumin, and Clove

To support and soothe the airways, a herbal extract containing ingredients like eucalyptus, echinacea, white willow, and schisandra is an excellent supplement. These herbs help alleviate respiratory symptoms and allow the dog to breathe more freely.

If your dog has throat inflammation, allergic rhinitis, or asthma, it is beneficial to address both the inflammation and the allergy. A combined approach is often the best for allergies. You want to eliminate the cause of the allergic reaction while also treating the symptoms caused by the allergy. Thymoquinone from black cumin blocks the release of histamine during allergic reactions. Clove also works in two ways against allergies in dogs. Firstly, clove is anti-inflammatory. Secondly, it helps restore balance in the body and ensures the immune system functions properly. This is also crucial for defense against viruses. Clove and black cumin enhance each other’s effects. Together, they form the perfect combination to combat allergic reactions in your dog.

Finally, here are some general tips to help prevent coughing in dogs as much as possible:

• Healthy, high-quality food
• Sufficient exercise in fresh air
• Protection against pollen and dust
• Regular check-ups with the veterinarian