Investigation of dyspnoea in dogs

DYSPNOEA is a relatively common presentation in dogs and has many possible aetiologies. The initial clinical assessment is essential to help identify the likely origin of the dyspnoea and determine the steps necessary to stabilise the clinical signs. Diagnostic techniques, such as radiography, bronchoscopy and thoracocentesis, can be easily performed in practice and will greatly aid investigation. This article describes the clinical signs of dyspnoea in dogs and outlines the approach to diagnosis in affected animals.