Dog Displaying Coughing and Gagging Symptoms: Expert Advice by Rhiannon Koehler, DVM, MPH, Published on July 25, 2025
Coughing and gagging in dogs can be a cause for concern for many pet owners. While these symptoms may seem alarming, understanding the common causes and treatments can help alleviate anxiety.
Common Causes
Kennel Cough
Kennel cough, also known as infectious tracheobronchitis, is a highly contagious respiratory infection that causes a dry, honking cough and gagging. It often affects puppies and unvaccinated dogs and can resolve on its own, but may require cough suppressants or antibiotics like doxycycline in some cases.
Respiratory Conditions
Respiratory conditions such as bronchitis, pneumonia, and tracheal collapse can also cause coughing and gagging in dogs. Bronchitis is characterised by a persistent dry cough worsened by exercise, treated with anti-inflammatory meds. Pneumonia, on the other hand, presents with a wet cough, fever, and labored breathing, requiring immediate care. Tracheal collapse, common in small breeds, causes a honking cough and may require surgery.
Heart Diseases
Heart diseases like congestive heart failure and heartworm disease can also cause coughing and breathing difficulties in dogs. Both require veterinary treatment.
Rapid Eating or Swallowing
Coughing or gagging can also occur due to rapid eating or swallowing, especially in dogs that gulp their meals quickly or certain breeds prone to fast eating.
Allergies
Allergies that inflame airways can cause coughing and sneezing in dogs, triggered by pollen, dust, or foods. Vaccination can help prevent some infectious causes like kennel cough.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the cause. Kennel cough may resolve without treatment or be managed by cough suppressants and antibiotics. Respiratory and heart conditions require veterinary diagnosis and treatment, potentially including medications or surgery. Eating-related coughing can be managed by feeding smaller, more frequent meals and slowing down eating. Allergies may require avoidance of triggers and possibly medications prescribed by a vet.
If a dog is coughing and gagging persistently or showing signs like difficulty breathing, lethargy, or fever, prompt veterinary attention is essential to diagnose and treat the underlying problem.
Prevention
To prevent respiratory infections and heartworm disease, keep your dog on year-round parasite prevention and ensure they are up to date on their vaccinations, including the Bordetella, DAPPv, and canine influenza virus vaccines.
Avoid smoking inside the house with your dog, as it can exacerbate respiratory issues.
Emergency Signs
If your dog is coughing up fluid or blood, showing lethargy, weakness, or sudden collapse, a bluish tint to the mucous membranes, increased respiratory effort or difficulty breathing, neurologic signs like twitching or seizures, emergency attention is required.
Special Considerations
For dogs with tracheal collapse, use a chest harness rather than a collar around the neck. Heart disease should be a consideration in older dogs who are coughing and gagging, and it's important to rule out if you're noticing the dog coughing and gagging at night.
Laryngeal paralysis, a neurological condition that affects older dogs, can cause coughing and gagging due to the larynx not opening completely when the dog breathes.
When the coughing occurs due to pressure on the airways, the cough is usually dry. The cough will sound deep and wet when there is fluid in the lungs, and the dog may cough up foamy liquid. The actions of coughing and gagging in dogs are aimed at clearing the airway of irritants or objects.
Understanding the common causes and treatments of coughing and gagging in dogs can help pet owners provide the best care for their furry friends. Always consult with a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.
- Just as kennel cough can affect a dog's respiratory health, it's also important to consider the impact of mental health on the overall wellbeing of our pets. Mental health issues like anxiety and behavioral disorders can manifest through many symptoms, including excessive panting, pacing, and interrupting sleep.
- Incorporating elements of science and self-care into our routines can significantly contribute to both our own and our pets' mental health. For instance, regular exercise, a balanced diet, and engaging in health-and-wellness practices such as mindfulness techniques can help reduce stress levels and improve mood in both humans and animals.
