Chronic bronchitis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) refers to the condition where the mucous membranes of the bronchi become inflamed causing a chronic cough that lasts two months or longer. This cough is not attributable to other causes like heart failure, neoplasia, infections or other respiratory diseases. Toy and small dog breeds such as the West Highland white terrier and cocker spaniel are found to be more susceptible to COPD although it is sometimes observed in larger breeds too.
Other than a dry cough other associated symptoms include:
Gagging
Abnormal lung sounds (i.e., wheezing, crackles, etc.)
Inability to perform routine exercises
Cyanosis
Loss of consciousness (syncope)
