Why Is My Dog Coughing

This page is educational reference material for preparing questions. A licensed veterinarian examines the animal, makes the diagnosis, and sets the treatment.

Dog cough causes: kennel cough, heart disease, collapsed trachea, allergies, and foreign objects. Types of coughs and treatments.

Understanding This Symptom

As a dog owner, noticing changes in your pet's behavior or health is the first step to getting them the help they need. This resource covers the most common causes, warning signs that indicate an emergency, and what you can expect at the veterinarian.

Common Causes

Less Serious Causes

More Serious Causes

• Poisoning or toxic exposure

What to Watch For

• Lethargy or reluctance to move or play
• Vomiting, diarrhea, or changes in stool

Home Care and First Steps

Veterinary Diagnosis

Your veterinarian will typically:

• Perform a thorough physical examination

Treatment Options

Prevention

Long-Term Management

When to Get a Second Opinion

Related Symptom Guides

• Why Is My Dog Not Eating?
• Why Is My Dog Shaking?
• Why Is My Dog Limping?
• Why Is My Dog Vomiting?
• Why Is My Dog Panting?

Should I go to the emergency vet?

Go now if the gums are blue, the dog cannot lie down, or the cough started after a choking episode. A cough with fever, in a puppy, or in a dog that is off its heartworm prevention should be seen the same day. One honk when the doorbell rings can be filmed and shown at a prompt appointment.

How much will treatment cost?

A cough visit listens to the chest and asks about heartworm prevention and kennel exposure. Chest films and a heartworm test are the usual next step when the cough has lasted more than a day or the dog tires on a walk. Get those prices before you approve them.

Can I treat this at home?

Note whether the cough is a hack at night, a honk on excitement, or a gag after eating. Keep the dog quiet and away from other dogs until the clinic has seen it. Cough syrup for people is a poor idea and can hide a heart or airway problem.