Why Is My Dog Coughing And Gagging? Causes, Caring, Treatment 2022

Introduction

If you’ve ever been worried about your dog coughing and gagging, you’re not alone. Many dog owners are concerned about this behavior but don’t know what to do about it. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the possible causes of your dog’s coughing and gagging, as well as how to treat it. We’ll also provide some tips for preventing your dog from coughing and gagging in the first place. So if you’re concerned about your pup’s health, keep reading!

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Difference Between Coughing And Gagging In Dogs

First, let’s clarify the difference between coughing and gagging in dogs. Coughing is a reflexive action that helps to clear the throat and airways of irritants. It is often caused by an infection or allergies. On the other hand, gagging is a reflexive action that occurs when something triggers the gag reflex in the back of the throat. Gagging is often caused by an object, such as a piece of food, that is stuck in the throat.

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Causes Of Coughing And Gagging In Dogs

There are many potential causes of coughing and gagging in dogs. Some of the most common include:

– Kennel cough:

Kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory infection that can cause your dog to cough and gag. It’s often spread through exposure to other dogs in places like kennels, grooming facilities, and dog parks. If your dog has been exposed to other dogs in these places, it’s important to watch for signs of kennel cough and take them to the vet if they develop any symptoms.

– Allergies:

Dogs can also develop allergies that cause coughing and gagging. Common allergens include dust, pollen, mold, and grass. If you suspect your dog has allergies, take them to the vet for testing and treatment.

– Respiratory infections:

Respiratory infections like bronchitis or pneumonia can also cause your dog to cough and gag. If your dog has a fever, is having difficulty breathing, or seems lethargic, make an appointment with your vet right away.

– Gastrointestinal issues:

gastrointestinal issues like esophagitis or gastritis can also cause your dog to cough and gag. If your dog is vomiting, has diarrhea, or seems to be in pain when they eat or drink, take them to the vet for an exam.

– Heart disease:

Heart disease is another possible cause of coughing and gagging in dogs. If your dog has a heart condition, it may cough when its heart isn’t pumping properly. This can be a serious problem, so if you suspect your dog has heart disease, take them to the vet for an exam.

– Cancer:

Cancer can also cause your dog to cough and gag. If you notice your dog coughing more than usual, or if the cough is accompanied by weight loss, fatigue, or difficulty breathing, make an appointment with your vet for an exam.

The treatment for coughing and gagging in dogs (At Home)

1. Keep your dog calm and relaxed- try not to let them get too excited or stressed as this can trigger coughing and gagging.

2. Take your dog for short, regular walks instead of long ones- this will help to keep their energy levels down and avoid over-stimulation.

3. Make sure your dog is getting enough rest- a tired dog is more likely to cough and gag.

4. Keep their food and water bowls clean and fresh- unclean bowls can lead to your dog ingesting bacteria which can cause them to cough and gag.

5. Avoid giving your dog any table scraps or human food- this can often be too rich or spicy for their stomach and cause them to gag or vomit.

6. If your dog is coughing and gagging after eating, try giving them smaller meals more often throughout the day instead of one large meal- this can help to prevent them from overeating and reduce the chances of vomiting or gagging.

7. If your dog is coughing and gagging due to allergies, talk to your vet about possible treatments such as antihistamines or allergy shots.

8. If your dog is coughing and gagging due to Kennel Cough, they will likely need antibiotics from your vet in order to clear the infection.

Coughing and gagging in dogs can often be alarming for owners, but in most cases, it is not a serious problem and can be easily treated at home. However, if your dog is persistently coughing and gagging or if they are also vomiting, then it is important to take them to see a vet as there may be an underlying medical condition causing these symptoms.

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Medication

1. If your dog is coughing and gagging due to Kennel Cough, they will likely need antibiotics from your vet in order to clear the infection.

2. If your dog is coughing and gagging due to allergies, your vet may prescribe antihistamines or recommend allergy shots.

3. If your dog has a heart condition that is causing them to cough and gag, your vet may prescribe medication to help manage the condition.

Surgery

1. If your dog has a foreign body lodged in its throat or airway, it will need surgery to remove it.

2. If your dog has a tumor or growth in their throat or airway, it may need surgery to remove it.

3. If your dog has a condition called laryngeal paralysis, it may need surgery to help them breathe more easily.

Preventing Coughing And Gagging In Dogs

The best way to prevent your dog from coughing and gagging is to take good care of their health. This means feeding them a nutritious diet, getting them regular exercise, and taking them to the vet for preventive care. If your dog is prone to allergies, talk to your vet about ways to prevent or treat them. And if your dog is exposed to other dogs in places like kennels, grooming facilities, or dog parks, make sure they’re up-to-date on their vaccinations to help prevent them from getting kennel cough.

Caring For A Dog With Coughing And Gagging

If your dog is coughing and gagging, it’s important to take them to the vet for an exam. In the meantime, there are some things you can do to make your dog more comfortable.

• First, make sure they’re getting plenty of rest.
• Second, offer small meals and frequent water breaks to prevent them from getting too tired or dehydrated.
• Third, keep their environment clean and free of dust and other allergens.
• fourth, talk to your vet about any medications that can help ease your dog’s coughing and gagging.

Learn all you need to know about dogs & their care in our detailed guide.

Conclusion

Coughing and gagging in dogs is usually not a serious problem, but it can be uncomfortable for your dog and worrisome for you. If your dog is coughing and gagging, take them to the vet for an exam. In the meantime, there are some things you can do to make your dog more comfortable. First, make sure they’re getting plenty of rest. Second, offer small meals and frequent water breaks to prevent them from getting too tired or dehydrated. Third, keep their environment clean and free of dust and other allergens. And fourth, talk to your vet about any medications that can help ease your dog’s coughing and gagging.

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