Seeing your dog suffer from congestion -- both nasal or lung congestion, can be both heartbreaking for the owner and difficult for the dog. Chronic canine congestion must be treated under the supervision of a vet, as congestion may result from serious health issues involving a virus, infection or other harmful, underlying ailment. Look into the various alternative treatments that will relieve canine congestion. Be open to the idea of administering more than one method to help your dog fight congestion.
Under the consultation of your dog's vet, administer natural supplements to combat nasal congestion. Give your dog thyme oil to relieve not only nasal congestion, but lung congestion. Glycyrrhiza glabra, or licorice, can also be administered as it is a anti-inflammatory and anti-allergenic herb which reduces congestion and inflammation by stimulating the anti-inflammatory hormone, cortisol.
Limit the time your canine spends outdoors, especially in colder temperatures. Nasal or chest congestion can result from cold weather and can cause the bronchial passages to constrict, making it hard for your dog to breathe. Run a vaporizer near your dog's sleeping area to open up his chest and nasal passageways, keeping his bronchial tubes moistened.
Rid home of allergies -- like humans, dogs can be allergic to some of the same allergens like dust, mold, pollen, or certain types of foods or insects . Remove any dust or mold lurking in dank crevices. Keep the dog's living environment free of allergens, and place an air purifier in the dog's living space to reduce allergen inhalation. Also have your dog tested for food allergies.
Lice and tick saliva has been linked to nasal congestion and allergies in dogs. Check to see if you dog suffers from possible infestation, and wash the dog in a therapeutic, anti-inflammatory shampoo that kills fleas. Administer a flea control if needed.
Administer antibiotics. Your canine should see a veterinarian to assess and determine the severity of your dog's congestion. The vet may be able to prescribe an antibiotic to relieve chronic nasal congestion, or he may suggest your dog start an anti-inflammatory prescription that will cure the reoccurring sinus infection, which generally results from chronic congestion.