What it is
The airways from the nose down to the lungs are lined with cells carrying cilia, tiny hairs that beat together in waves. Their rhythm moves a thin layer of mucus, with trapped dust and germs, up and out, where the dog coughs it up or swallows it. In primary ciliary dyskinesia, an inherited fault in the structure of the cilia stops them beating properly, so this cleaning system stalls.
Mucus that stays put lets bacteria multiply, which is why the nose, sinuses, airways and lungs get infected again and again from early puppyhood. Because sperm swim with a tail built much like a cilium, and cilia help shape the body before birth, the disease can also affect fertility and sometimes the position of the internal organs.
In everyday life it pays to watch the breathing closely: a dog that tires quickly, coughs more or breathes faster may be heading into another infection. Clean, smoke-free air at home is kinder to the airways.
Signs you may notice
- Thick nasal discharge
- Lingering cough
- Keeps sneezing
- Repeated airway infections
- Tires quickly on walks
- Fast or laboured breathing
Even as a puppy the dog may have a constant thick discharge from the nose, cough, sneeze and keep getting airway or lung infections. When things improve, the signs soon return.
When to see a vet
Book a vet visit if a puppy's runny nose or cough keeps coming back. If your dog is struggling to breathe or its gums look bluish, a vet is needed immediately.
This is general information, not veterinary advice. For your own dog's health, tests and treatment, see a vet.