COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) is a progressive lung disease characterized by chronic bronchitis or emphysema, making it difficult to breathe. The main symptoms are shortness of breath, coughing, and increased mucus production. According to the CDC, COPD affects over 16 million Americans and is the third leading cause of death in the United States. Prevalence is especially high among those over age 65, with recent studies estimating that nearly 1 in 5 older adults live with COPD. The incidence and severity of COPD tends to be higher in men compared to women.
With COPD being so common, especially among seniors, an important question is whether having pets like dogs can negatively impact the condition. Some COPD patients worry whether dander, hair or other allergens from dogs may worsen their symptoms. This article will explore the potential risks and benefits of dog ownership for those living with COPD.
Benefits of Dog Ownership
There are many well-documented benefits to owning a dog. Research has shown that owning and caring for a dog can provide companionship and help reduce feelings of loneliness and social isolation (source). The companionship of a dog provides friendship, empathy, emotional support, and unconditional love. This leads to less depression and improved overall mood and health.
In addition, owning a dog encourages more physical activity as people walk and exercise with their dogs. According to the AKC, dog owners walk an average of 300 minutes per week, compared to non-dog owners who average 168 minutes per week of exercise (source). This extra physical activity from walking dogs leads to lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol levels, and a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease.
Finally, multiple studies show that owning a dog reduces stress and anxiety while improving mood. Petting a dog prompts the brain to release oxytocin, dopamine, prolactin and other “feel-good” hormones that enhance feelings of happiness and well-being (source). In this way, dogs provide a powerful antidote to stress and depression.
Potential Downsides for COPD Patients
While having a dog can provide many benefits, there are some potential downsides that COPD patients should consider. One main concern is exposure to dog allergens like dander. As noted by Sprylyfe, “Dog hair can also aggravate your cough, especially when you have pet allergies and pets that shed too much hair, fur, and dander.”
For those with allergies or sensitivity, the dander and hair that dogs naturally shed can worsen COPD symptoms like coughing and breathing difficulties (source).
Another issue is increased risk of infections. As Apollo247 points out, “Pet dander is tiny bits of skin shed by dogs, cats, rodents, birds and other animals who have feathers or furs.” These particles can carry bacteria that could lead to respiratory infections for COPD patients.
Caring for a dog also requires physical exertion, which can be challenging with COPD. Going for walks, playing, grooming, and other activities may overexert some patients and worsen their symptoms.
While these are valid concerns, there are also ways to mitigate the risks so COPD patients can safely have a dog. Careful hygiene, allergy medication, choosing the right breed, and pacing activities appropriately can allow patients to enjoy dog ownership.
Tips to Reduce Problems
There are several ways COPD patients can reduce issues from having a dog.
Keep dogs out of the bedroom. Dog dander and hair can accumulate on bedding and exacerbate breathing problems at night (https://www.lung.org/clean-air/indoor-air/indoor-air-pollutants/pet-dander).
Bathe dogs regularly. Frequent bathing and brushing can minimize the spread of dander in the home (https://www.apollo247.com/blog/article/can-you-keep-pet-if-you-have-copd).
Wash hands after contact. Washing hands after petting or handling dogs reduces transfer of allergens (https://www.optum.com/health-articles/article/health-conditions/5-asthma-allergy-and-copd-triggers-hiding-your-home/).
Consider hypoallergenic breeds. Certain breeds produce less dander and may be better tolerated.
Role of Other Pets
While dogs can potentially aggravate COPD symptoms, some other pets may be safer alternatives for COPD patients. Cats, for example, are known to trigger fewer allergies than dogs (Source). Their dander tends to be less irritating, and they groom themselves more often to reduce loose hair and dander. However, cat dander can still trigger COPD exacerbations in some patients (Source).
Birds are another option, as their dander is minimal. However, their droppings can irritate the airways and some feathers may become airborne. Fish and reptiles are very low-maintenance pets that are confined to tanks or cages, reducing dander exposure. Rodents like hamsters may work for some but can trigger allergies in others. Overall, non-furry and non-feathered pets pose less risk of exacerbating COPD but do not offer the same companionship benefits of dogs or cats.
No pet is completely risk-free for COPD patients. Speaking with a pulmonologist can help identify the safest options based on allergy testing and sensitivities. With some modifications and precautions, many COPD patients can still enjoy the companionship of a family pet.
Veterinary Guidance
Veterinarians generally recommend taking some precautions for COPD patients who own dogs:
- Keep the dog well-groomed and nails trimmed to reduce dander and dust in the home (https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/chronic-obstructive-pulmonary-disease-copd-in-dogs).
- Use HEPA air filters and vacuum regularly to reduce allergens (https://www.charlotte.carolinavet.com/site/charlotte-emergency-vet-blog/2020/11/13/copd-in-dogs).
- Avoid dusty litter like clumping clay and instead use dust-free litter (https://www.lakecross.com/site/blog-huntersville-vet/2020/12/18/copd-dogs).
- Keep the dog out of the bedroom if possible so the COPD patient has a pet-free space.
- Walk the dog regularly to minimize dander shed inside.
- Bathe and groom the dog weekly if possible.
- Discuss any worsening of COPD symptoms with your physician.
While dogs can worsen COPD symptoms, vets agree simple precautions allow most people to manage their disease and keep enjoying dog ownership.
Patient Experiences
Many COPD patients who own dogs report mostly positive experiences. For example, one patient shared how their dog motivates them to stay active: “My dog gets me outside walking every day, even when it’s hard for me to breathe. She helps me stay as active as possible.”
Another patient explained how their dog provides emotional support: “When I’m having a bad breathing day and get anxious, my dog comes over and lays his head on my lap. It really calms me down and helps me get through the episode.”
However, some patients do note difficulties caused by pet dander and hair. As one patient described, “I love my dog, but the fur and dander in my home definitely makes my COPD worse. I have to vacuum and dust constantly to try to reduce it.”
Overall, most COPD patients feel the companionship and motivation from their dogs outweighs the potential increased exposure to allergens. But those sensitive to dander do need to take precautions and monitor their breathing closely.
The Verdict
The research shows that having a dog can provide some benefits for COPD patients, but also poses some risks that need to be carefully considered. On the positive side, studies show dog ownership is linked to increased physical activity and reduced feelings of isolation and depression (Baiardini et al., 2022; Baiardini et al., 2022). The companionship and need to walk a dog may motivate COPD patients to be more active. However, potential downsides are that dogs can shed dander and hair that may irritate airways and trigger coughing or wheezing in sensitive individuals. Their saliva and skin proteins can also cause allergic reactions (Sprylyfe).
When deciding if getting a dog is advisable, COPD patients should consider their personal allergy and asthma history. Hypoallergenic dog breeds like poodles or schnauzers may be an option to reduce dander and shedding. Checking tolerance by visiting friends with dogs first can test reactions. Starting with short visits and brushing/bathing dogs frequently helps limit irritants. Consulting doctors and monitoring lung function when first adopting a dog is also wise. With some precautions, dog ownership can be safe for many COPD patients to improve mood and activity.
Discussion
While owning a dog does come with certain risks for COPD patients, it’s important to remember that many factors affect each individual’s risk level. There is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to determining if having a dog will negatively impact your COPD.
The severity of your COPD, the breed and activity level of the dog, your living environment, and your overall health and mobility should all be taken into account. For some COPD patients, having a small, lower energy companion dog that doesn’t shed much or trigger allergies may be manageable.
For others with more severe COPD that limits their activity, having a larger or high energy dog that requires more substantial care and exercise may be too difficult. Much depends on your individual circumstances and abilities as a dog owner.
At the end of the day, the best approach is to have an open and honest discussion with your pulmonologist. Explain your interest in getting a dog and go over any concerns. Your doctor can provide personalized guidance on whether dog ownership is advisable for your situation. They may have suggestions on ideal breeds or care approaches as well.
While a dog can certainly add joy and purpose to life, it’s crucial for COPD patients to weigh the pros and cons carefully for their health. With the right precautions and your doctor’s input, owning a dog may be possible depending on the individual.
Conclusion
Can having a dog make COPD worse? After reviewing the potential benefits and risks, the answer is that owning a dog can negatively impact COPD symptoms in some cases. However, with proper preparation and management, dogs can still be wonderful companions for those with COPD.
The key is to honestly assess your health status, activity levels, and ability to care for a dog. Work closely with your doctor to determine if dog ownership is right for you. Take steps to choose the right breed, train them properly, and keep up with grooming. Monitor your breathing and adjust activities as needed. With the right precautions, COPD patients can safely enjoy quality time with dogs.
It’s important to weigh the pros and cons carefully for your situation. While there are some risks, dogs can also provide joy, comfort, and motivation to stay active. Focus on finding ways to minimize problems and maximize benefits. With some planning and patience, having a furry friend may be possible despite the challenges of COPD.
