Treating a Dog Sore Throat

My 3 yr old Jack Russell 's throat seems sore. He can barely bark. How do you treat it?

Vet Suggestion for Treating a Dog Sore Throat


Hello there,

Treatment for a sore throat and loss of voice in dogs depends on the underlying reason for the condition. Overuse (i.e., incessant barking) is probably the most common cause in an otherwise healthy Jack Russell. If your dog has recently spent time in a boarding kennel, doggy day care, or other facility that might produce a lot of barking (or if you know he’s been barking a lot lately for another reason), that is the likely culprit, particularly if your dog seems completely normal otherwise.

In these cases, rest is the answer. Try to keep your dog in environments that don’t encourage barking until his voice returns to normal.
Of course, other conditions can cause the symptoms you describe. Infections, foreign material lodged in the throat, tumors, and more can all be to blame.

If your dog is having trouble breathing or swallowing or seems to be in a lot of pain, get him to a veterinarian immediately. Otherwise, keep a close eye on him. If his condition worsens at any time or fails to improve over the course of a few days, it is time to make an appointment with the veterinarian.



Regards,

Jennifer Coates, DVM