Causes of Gagging and Coughing in Dogs: Coughing and gagging are symptoms of more severe illnesses in dogs than in people because, unlike humans, dogs seldom cough. Breathing problems are common among smaller and flatter-faced dogs, such as pugs, bulldogs, and boxers, due to their short snouts and narrow airways. Additionally, some dogs experience snorting, choking, and other respiratory discomfort due to dietary or environmental allergies.

Here are some of the most common causes of persistent coughing and gagging in dogs.

Kennel Cough

An abrupt and persistent cough, which may escalate to a level of severity that causes your dog to gag, is the hallmark of kennel cough. Like human bronchitis, Kennel cough may cause your dog to snort, choke, wheeze, and cough deeply, but it’s typically not as severe as it sounds.

Although the disease is highly infectious, most dogs will recover on their own after a few days of isolation from other dogs with kennel cough. The typical healing time for a healthy dog is around two weeks, although older dogs and puppies may require extra attention and may need veterinary treatment.

Choking

Some objects that dogs chew on end up stuck in their throats. If your dog gags, licks its lips, and keeps attempting to swallow—even if it’s only a grass seed—you’ll know something is wrong.

If your canine is unable to cough it up, have them checked out by a vet as soon as possible.

Collapsing Trachea

Tracheal collapse may affect small dog breeds, whether it’s a hereditary or acquired defect. In addition to avoiding activity while having respiratory difficulty, your dog may often gag when eating or drinking. Some kinds are manageable, while others may need surgical intervention.

Heart Disease

Coughing, like other symptoms such as difficulty breathing, a blue tongue, lethargy, and extreme exhaustion, particularly during exercise, may be an indication of cardiac illness in dogs. See your vet for a diagnosis and treatment plan if you see any of these signs.

Pneumonia

If your dog coughs up mucus or water, it can be a sign of pneumonia or fluid accumulation in its lungs. A fever, lethargy, and difficulty breathing are possible symptoms. There are many potential causes of pneumonia, so it’s essential to take your dog to the doctor immediately if it develops a wet cough.

Veterinarian Rockingham

Every day of the week, our doors are open at Pork Kennedy Vets to aid and advise you if your dog is experiencing chronic gagging or coughing. Your pet’s comfort and well-being are our first concerns. If you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s health, please call 08 9524 6644 or email us. You can invest in your pet’s health and happiness with our wellness packages, which simplify pet care and offer affordable monthly payments.