By Dr. Ashok Pattanaik, Head, Research & Development, Godrej Pet Care (maker of Godrej Ninja pet food for dogs)
Chandigarh, Jan 12: When the air turns “severe” on AQI charts, most people think about masks and inhalers for humans. But India’s dogs are breathing the same toxic mix, often closer to the ground, for longer hours, and with far less protection.
Why dogs are so vulnerable
Dogs inhale more air per kilo of body weight than humans and live much closer to the ground, where heavier particles like PM2.5 and PM10 tend to settle. Fine particulate matter can bypass the protective mechanism of nose and lodge deep in the bronchi and lungs, triggering inflammation that gradually erodes respiratory health. Global studies have linked poor air quality to higher oxidative stress and airway changes in dogs, with indoor pollution (smoke, incense, cleaning sprays) adding to outdoor smog.
What vets are seeing in Indian cities
Over the last few winters, veterinarians in Delhi, Mumbai and other metros have reported a surge in dogs with coughing, breathlessness, chronic bronchitis, eye irritation and even digestive upsets linked to pollution exposure. Short-nosed breeds like pugs and shih tzus, senior dogs and those with existing heart or lung issues are at particular risk because their respiratory ability is already compromised. In Delhi, PM2.5 levels have repeatedly hit 15–20 times the WHO safe limit, and several cases of dogs needing nebulisers for pollution-induced bronchitis have made news, turning the AQI into a very real emergency for pet families.
Signs pet parents should never ignore
Polluted air rarely causes a single dramatic episode in dogs; instead, it quietly chips away at their health over time. Pet parents should never ignore common warning signs such as persistent coughing, wheezing, noisy breathing, or excessive panting even after mild activity, red, watery eyes accompanied by frequent blinking or pawing at the face; nasal discharge, sneezing, or repeated throat clearing; and unusual fatigue during walks or reluctance to play, as these often signal underlying respiratory distress from AQI exposure.
Everyday protection during high pollution
Completely escaping bad air is impossible during periods with peak pollution, but simple, consistent steps can significantly protect dogs. Check AQI before walks and choose times of the day with lower-pollution while avoiding peak traffic roads; shorten outdoor time on “poor” or “severe” days, shifting play indoors instead. Wipe paws, coat, and face with a damp cloth after walks to prevent dogs from licking settled dust and chemicals. Avoid smoking, heavy room sprays, and harsh cleaners around pets, improve ventilation where possible, and consider air purifiers if feasible. For at-risk dogs, such as brachycephalic breeds, seniors, or those with heart/respiratory issues, discuss preventive inhalers, bronchodilators, or nebulisation plans with a vet before peak smog season. For a nutrition boost, feed antioxidant-rich foods to combat oxidative stress, including blueberries, pumpkin, sweet potatoes, broccoli in small amounts, salmon or Omega-3 sources for anti-inflammation, vet-dosed turmeric, and probiotic yogurt to support the gut-immunity link—these help bolster lung health against pollution without curing it, so always consult a vet first and look for quality packaged dog foods with similar ingredients.
A “One Health” wake-up call
Research is increasingly clear that poor air quality harms humans and animals in similar ways, from chronic bronchitis to reduced immunity and higher hospital visits. In that sense, India’s rising AQI is not just a human health story; it is a shared environmental risk for entire families, pets included.
For pet parents, the message is simple: if the air is bad for you, it is often worse for your dog. Recognising early signs, adjusting routines in high-AQI periods, and actively reducing indoor pollution can go a long way in protecting canine companions until the air outside becomes safer for everyone.
Boost immunity through probiotics
It’s important to support the good bacteria in the gut, which play a key role in digestion, immunity, and overall health and well-being. For these beneficial bacteria to thrive, they need prebiotics — a special type of dietary fiber that acts as their food. Including the right prebiotics in your dog’s diet helps good bacteria stay strong, multiply, and keep the gut environment balanced. Additional boost your dog’s immunity by feeding a balanced diet with lean proteins (chicken, fish), minerals (calcium, phosphorus, iron, copper, zinc, selenium, iodine, etc.), vitamins (A, D, E, B-complex), and omega-3 fatty acids.
