Dog coughing can range from a mild, temporary throat irritation to a sign of a more serious health issue, such as kennel cough, allergies, respiratory infections, or heart disease. Observing the type of cough, its frequency, and any accompanying symptoms is key to identifying the underlying cause.
For example:
A dry, honking cough may indicate kennel cough or tracheal irritation.
A soft, moist cough could signal heart or lung problems.
Recognizing these differences allows you to take timely action and ensures your dog receives appropriate care, including veterinary evaluation when necessary.
Why Is My Dog Coughing?
Coughing is a natural reflex that helps dogs clear their throat and airways of irritants such as dust, allergens, or mucus. An occasional cough is usually normal and not a cause for concern. However, if your dog’s cough becomes frequent, harsh, worsens over time, or lasts more than a few days, it may signal an underlying health issue. Common causes include allergies, respiratory infections, kennel cough, airway irritation, or conditions affecting the heart or lungs.
This article explains the most common reasons for dog coughing, the typical symptoms associated with each cause, and the available treatment options. It also helps you understand when a cough can be monitored at home and when timely veterinary care is important, so you can respond appropriately and protect your dog’s health.
Normal vs. Concerning Coughs
Type of Cough or Situation | What It Might Mean | When It’s Usually Normal | When to Call the Vet |
Occasional single cough | Mild throat irritation or clearing dust or water | Happens rarely and there are no other symptoms | If it becomes daily or starts happening more often |
Short burst after excitement or pulling on the leash | Temporary airway irritation or pressure on the trachea | Mild, infrequent, and stops quickly | If it occurs repeatedly with light activity or even at rest |
Dry, hacking, or “honking” cough | Kennel cough, chronic bronchitis, or collapsing trachea | Mild cases may improve within 1–2 weeks | If it lasts longer than 7 days, worsens, or affects breathing |
Wet, gurgling cough | Fluid in the lungs, pneumonia, or heart disease | Not considered normal | See a veterinarian immediately, as this may indicate infection or heart failure |
Coughing at night or when lying down | Heart enlargement or fluid buildup in the lungs | Not considered normal | Urgent veterinary evaluation is recommended, as this may signal heart disease |
Coughing up blood or pink, foamy fluid | Severe lung or heart condition, trauma, or poisoning | N |
Note: Symptoms such as difficulty breathing, blue or pale gums, extreme lethargy, or loss of appetite are signs of a medical emergency and should never be ignored. Seek immediate veterinary care if any of these symptoms are present.
Types of Dog Coughs and What They Mean
Dog Coughing Dry (Dog Coughing and Hacking)
Kennel cough, chronic bronchitis, or tracheal collapse could be the reason for your dog coughing dry. This type of cough may worsen with excitement, exercise, or pulling on the leash and should be monitored closely if it persists or becomes more frequent.
Moist, Wet, or Gurgly Cough
A wet or gurgly cough usually indicates fluid or mucus in the lungs. Common causes include pneumonia or heart disease, particularly heart failure. This type of cough is not considered normal and requires prompt veterinary evaluation.
Dog Coughing at Night
Coughing that occurs mainly at night or when a dog is lying down is often associated with heart disease or fluid buildup in the lungs. Because this can signal a worsening heart condition, veterinary attention is recommended.
Dog Coughing in the Morning
Morning coughing may be caused by mucus accumulation overnight or mild airway irritation. While it can be harmless if occasional, frequent or persistent morning coughing should be checked by a veterinarian.
Dog Coughing Up Blood
Coughing up blood or pink, foamy fluid is a medical emergency. Possible causes include severe infections such as pneumonia, heartworm disease, lung trauma, or tumors. Immediate veterinary care is critical in these cases.
What Causes a Dog to Cough?
If your dog keeps coughing, there may be an underlying health issue triggering the symptom. While some causes are mild and temporary, others require medical attention. Below are some of the most common reasons dogs develop a cough.
Most Common Causes of Dog Coughing
Cause | Symptoms / Signs | Notes / Treatment / Urgency |
Kennel Cough | Dry, hacking cough; worsens with excitement | Often mild; resolves 1–3 weeks; antibiotics for severe cases; vaccination prevents spread |
Chronic Bronchitis | Dry, honking cough; gagging, wheezing | No cure; managed with corticosteroids, bronchodilators, lifestyle changes |
Foreign Object | Sudden, violent coughing, pawing at mouth, drooling | Emergency; removed via endoscopy or surgery |
Allergies / Airway Irritation | Coughing, sneezing, watery eyes, itchy skin | Manage by reducing allergens; antihistamines or steroids may be prescribed |
Collapsing Trachea | Honking cough, gagging, worsens with activity | Chronic; managed with weight control, harness, inhaled meds, sometimes surgery |
Heart Disease / Heart Failure | Soft, moist cough, worse at night, lethargy, blue gums | Life-threatening; requires echocardiogram, chest X-ray, ECG |
Pneumonia / Respiratory Infection | Wet cough, rapid breathing, fever, nasal discharge | Diagnosed via X-ray and bloodwork; hospitalization if severe |
Heartworm Disease | Persistent cough, exercise intolerance, abdominal swelling | Preventive meds; serious if untreated |
Kennel Cough (Infectious Tracheobronchitis)
Kennel cough is one of the most common causes of coughing in dogs. It is highly contagious and spreads easily in places where dogs gather closely, such as boarding facilities, grooming salons, training classes, shelters, and dog parks.
This condition is more common in younger dogs, dogs with weaker immune systems, or those who are not vaccinated. Symptoms usually appear 3–10 days after exposure to an infected dog. Dogs with kennel cough typically develop a deep, dry, hacking cough that may sound like gagging or as if something is stuck in their throat. The cough often worsens with excitement, exercise, or pressure on the leash.
Kennel cough can be caused by a combination of viruses and bacteria, including Bordetella bronchiseptica, canine parainfluenza virus, canine adenovirus type 2, and canine influenza virus, according to PetMD. In mild cases, symptoms often improve on their own within one to three weeks. More severe cases, especially in puppies or older dogs, may require veterinary treatment such as antibiotics, cough suppressants, or supportive care.
Prevention focuses on vaccination, commonly called the Bordetella or kennel cough vaccine, reducing exposure to infected dogs, and isolating affected dogs until they recover to limit spread.
Chronic Bronchitis
Chronic bronchitis is a long-term inflammation of the lower airways that lasts at least two months and causes a persistent cough. It is most commonly seen in middle-aged to older dogs. Dogs with chronic bronchitis typically have a dry, hacking cough that may sound like honking and can be accompanied by gagging, wheezing, or fatigue. The cough often worsens with exercise, excitement, or exposure to irritants such as smoke or strong odors.
Although chronic bronchitis has no cure, it can usually be managed successfully. Treatment often includes anti-inflammatory medications such as corticosteroids, bronchodilators to help open the airways, and antibiotics if a secondary infection is present. Long-term management also involves lifestyle adjustments, including maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding cigarette smoke and environmental pollutants, and using a harness instead of a collar to reduce pressure on the airway. With proper care and ongoing veterinary guidance, many dogs with chronic bronchitis can maintain a good quality of life.
Foreign Objects or Choking
Dogs may accidentally inhale or swallow small objects such as toy pieces, food chunks, sticks, bones, or grass. When something becomes lodged in the throat or upper airway, it can cause sudden, intense coughing, gagging, drooling, pawing at the mouth, or repeated attempts to vomit. These signs often appear abruptly and can be frightening.
If your dog does not stop coughing within a few minutes, appears distressed or panicked, or struggles to breathe, this is a medical emergency. A veterinarian must remove the object, which is commonly done using endoscopy or, in some cases, surgery.
You may briefly check your dog’s mouth only if it is safe to do so and only when the object is clearly visible and easy to grasp, such as a piece of string or a small toy. Do not reach deep into the throat, as this can push the object farther down or cause injury.
Prevention is key. Always supervise your dog during play, avoid giving small toys or brittle bones that can break apart, and choose chew items appropriate for their size and chewing habits.
Allergies and Airway Irritation
According to PetMD, allergies occur when a dog’s immune system overreacts to substances in the environment, known as allergens. Common allergens include dust, pollen, smoke, perfumes, mold, and household chemicals, which can cause airway inflammation and trigger coughing.
Coughing caused by allergies is often accompanied by other signs such as itchy skin, sneezing, watery eyes, and wheezing. Unlike infections, allergy-related coughing usually occurs seasonally or in response to indoor triggers, and is not associated with fever.
Managing allergy-related coughing involves reducing exposure to allergens. Practical steps include using air purifiers, frequent cleaning, and keeping your home smoke-free. In some cases, veterinarians may recommend antihistamines or corticosteroids to help control inflammation and ease symptoms. With proper management, dogs with allergies can lead comfortable, healthy lives.
Collapsing Trachea
“My dog has a cough that sounds like a goose, why?” If your dog coughs and sounds like a honking goose, it could be a sign of a collapsing trachea, a condition most commonly seen in small toy breeds. In this condition, the cartilage rings that normally support the trachea weaken, causing the airway to partially collapse. As air is forced through the narrowed trachea, it produces the distinctive honking cough. The cough often worsens with excitement, exercise, or pressure from a collar.
Other signs may include gagging after drinking, difficulty breathing, and wheezing. Although collapsing trachea is a chronic condition, it can often be managed successfully. Management strategies include maintaining a healthy weight, using a harness instead of a collar, administering inhaled medications, and in severe cases, surgical intervention. With proper care, many dogs can live comfortably despite this condition.
Heart Disease or Heart Failure
Heart disease in dogs can lead to coughing in two main ways. First, an enlarged heart may press on the airways, triggering a cough. Second, if the heart is unable to pump blood effectively, blood can back up into the lungs, causing fluid to leak from blood vessels and accumulate in the lung tissue—a condition known as pulmonary edema.
Dogs with heart-related coughing often have a persistent, soft, moist cough, which may be worse at night or when lying down. Other warning signs include fatigue, difficulty breathing, blue or pale gums, and reduced appetite.
Heart disease and heart failure are serious, potentially life-threatening conditions. Immediate veterinary care is essential. A veterinarian may perform diagnostic tests such as echocardiography, chest X-rays, and an electrocardiogram (ECG) to determine the cause and severity, followed by appropriate treatment.
Pneumonia and Respiratory Infections
Coughing caused by pneumonia or other respiratory infections in dogs is often a deep, wet cough. It may be accompanied by rapid or labored breathing, lethargy, fever, and nasal discharge.
Pneumonia can result from bacterial or viral infections, or from aspiration, which occurs when a dog inhales foreign material into the lungs—commonly during vomiting or when liquid medications are accidentally inhaled.
Veterinarians typically diagnose pneumonia or other respiratory infections through blood tests and chest X-rays. In severe cases, dogs may require hospitalization for oxygen therapy, intravenous fluids, and antibiotics to support recovery. Prompt veterinary attention is important to prevent complications and ensure effective treatment.
Heartworm Disease
Heartworm disease can also cause coughing in dogs. The infection begins when a mosquito bites an infected dog, picking up heartworm larvae, and then transmits them to another dog through a subsequent bite. The larvae eventually migrate to the heart and lungs, where they mature and interfere with normal heart and lung function, often causing a persistent cough.
Other signs of heartworm disease may include exercise intolerance, fatigue, abdominal swelling, and fainting. Heartworm disease is a serious, potentially fatal condition if left untreated. Early detection through blood tests and prompt veterinary treatment are essential to protect your dog’s health. Preventive measures, such as monthly heartworm medications, are highly recommended to reduce the risk of infection.
Other Possible Causes of Dog Coughing
While the conditions discussed earlier account for most cases of coughing in dogs, some less common but potentially serious issues can also trigger coughing or cough-like sounds.
Reverse Sneezing
Reverse sneezing is not a true cough but can sound similar. It occurs when an irritant causes the throat and soft palate to spasm, producing a snorting, gagging, or coughing-like sound.
Occasional reverse sneezing is usually harmless and does not require treatment. However, if episodes become frequent, prolonged, or are accompanied by nasal discharge, it is important to contact your veterinarian for evaluation to rule out underlying issues such as nasal infections or foreign objects.
Inhaling Indoor Irritants
Dogs can develop coughing from inhaling indoor irritants such as smoke, air fresheners, cleaning sprays, and perfumes. This is especially common in small breeds or dogs with pre-existing respiratory conditions like chronic bronchitis or allergies.
To reduce the risk of irritation, keep your home well-ventilated, use natural or fragrance-free cleaning products, and consider using air purifiers. Minimizing exposure to these irritants can help prevent coughing and improve your dog’s overall respiratory health.
Foxtails and Grass Awns
Foxtails and grass awns are sharp, barbed grass seeds that can enter a dog’s nose, ears, or lungs, causing irritation, inflammation, or even abscesses. Dogs exposed to foxtails may show persistent coughing, nasal discharge, pawing at the face, or frequent headshaking.
If a foxtail becomes lodged in the respiratory tract or nasal passages, urgent veterinary attention is required to safely remove it and prevent complications such as lung infections or severe tissue damage. Early detection is crucial to avoid serious health issues.
Aspiration Pneumonia
Aspiration pneumonia occurs when a dog inhales food, liquid, or vomit, leading to inflammation or infection in the lungs. Dogs with this condition often show a wet cough, labored or rapid breathing, lethargy, and fever.
Aspiration pneumonia is a medical emergency. Immediate veterinary care is required, which may include antibiotics, intravenous fluids, and supportive care to help the lungs recover and prevent life-threatening complications.
Esophagitis (Acid Reflux Irritation)
Esophagitis occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing inflammation and irritation of the esophageal lining. This can lead to coughing, gagging, or retching, often after eating or when the dog is lying down.
Management typically includes dietary changes, feeding in an upright position, and, in some cases, antacids or medications prescribed by a veterinarian. With proper care, most dogs experience relief from symptoms and reduced coughing.
Pulmonary Hypertension
Pulmonary hypertension is a condition in which the blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs becomes abnormally high, reducing blood flow and oxygen delivery to the lungs. Dogs with pulmonary hypertension may show exercise intolerance, a dry cough, difficulty breathing, or fainting.
Diagnosis usually involves ultrasound (echocardiography) to assess heart and lung function. Treatment often includes medications to support heart function and reduce blood pressure in the lungs, along with management of any underlying conditions contributing to the disease. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve quality of life and reduce complications.
Lung Lobe Torsion
Lung lobe torsion occurs when a lobe of the lung twists on itself, cutting off airflow and blood supply. This is a life-threatening emergency. Dogs with lung lobe torsion may show sudden coughing, coughing up blood, difficulty breathing, or even collapse.
Immediate veterinary intervention is critical, and surgical removal of the affected lung lobe is usually required to save the dog’s life. Prompt recognition and treatment are essential to prevent fatal outcomes.
Rat Poison Ingestion
Some types of rat poison, particularly anticoagulant poisons, prevent the blood from clotting, which can lead to internal bleeding. Dogs exposed to these toxins may show signs such as coughing up blood, labored breathing, weakness, or pale gums.
This is a life-threatening emergency. Immediate veterinary care is essential, often including vitamin K therapy to help the blood clot, along with supportive treatment to manage bleeding and stabilize the dog. Prompt action can be lifesaving.
When to See a Vet Immediately
According to Garden State Vet, you should seek immediate veterinary care if your dog shows any of the following emergency signs:
Nonstop coughing or difficulty breathing
Coughing up blood or pink froth
Blue or pale gums
Extreme weakness or collapse
Loss of appetite
Cough worsening at night
If you notice any of these symptoms, take the following steps:
Call your veterinarian or an emergency clinic right away.
Monitor your dog’s breathing rate, which should normally be 10–30 breaths per minute at rest.
Transport your dog calmly, ideally using a harness rather than a collar to avoid putting pressure on the airway.
Prompt action can make a critical difference in emergency situations.
Diagnosing a Coughing Dog
Proper diagnosis of a coughing dog is essential to determine the cause and ensure they receive the right treatment.
What the Vet Will Do
To identify the underlying cause, a veterinarian will typically:
Ask about your dog’s health history and observe the cough pattern
Perform a physical examination
Take chest X-rays and possibly an echocardiogram
Conduct blood work and fecal tests
Collect airway samples for lab analysis
In some cases, more advanced diagnostics may be needed:
Bronchoscopy to examine the trachea and major airways (bronchi)
Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy to evaluate the esophagus and stomach lining
Whenever your dog is coughing, it is helpful to record a video of the cough to show your veterinarian. This allows them to observe the cough’s sound, duration, and severity, which can provide important clues for an accurate diagnosis.
Dog Coughing Treatment
Treatment for a dog’s cough depends on the underlying cause. Your veterinarian will determine the best approach based on diagnosis.
Veterinary Treatments
Cause-Specific Treatments
Antibiotics for bacterial infections
Dewormers for parasitic infections
Steroids to reduce inflammation
Bronchodilators to relax the airways
Heart medications for cardiac-related coughing
Surgery or endoscopy to remove foreign objects
Supportive Care
In addition to targeted treatments, supportive care can help your dog feel more comfortable and recover faster:
Cough suppressants, used only under veterinary guidance
Humidifiers or nebulizers to soothe irritated airways
Immune-supporting supplements, such as Pet-A-Lyte or Nutramax Imuquin
Oxygen therapy in severe cases
Combining cause-specific treatment with supportive care improves outcomes and helps your dog recover safely and comfortably.
How to Help My Dog Stop Coughing at Home
Before trying any home remedies, it’s important to consult your veterinarian to ensure your dog’s cough is not a sign of a serious condition.
Safe Home Remedies
If your dog is otherwise healthy and shows no worrying symptoms, your vet may suggest some gentle measures to ease coughing:
Steam therapy: Sit with your dog in a steamy bathroom for 10–15 minutes while taking a hot shower. The moisture can help soothe irritated airways.
Hydration: Encourage drinking by offering fresh, clean water. Adding ice cubes can make it more appealing.
Calm environment: Minimize excitement, activity, and exposure to smoke or strong odors, which can trigger coughing.
Avoid Dangerous Home Treatments
Never give your dog human cough syrups, lozenges, or untested “natural” remedies, as these can be toxic or life-threatening. Always follow your veterinarian’s guidance for safe and effective treatment.
Final Thoughts
Occasional coughing in dogs is often harmless, but persistent, severe, or unusual coughing should never be ignored. A cough can indicate a variety of underlying health issues, from respiratory infections and allergies to heart disease or more serious conditions.
If your dog’s cough lasts more than two days or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as difficulty breathing, coughing up blood, lethargy, or loss of appetite, it is essential to consult a veterinarian promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment help keep your dog healthy, comfortable, and happy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my dog's occasional coughing normal or a health concern?
An occasional, isolated cough is usually normal. However, if the cough is persistent, severe, or accompanied by other symptoms such as difficulty breathing, lethargy, or loss of appetite, it may indicate a health problem, and you should consult a veterinarian.
Why is my dog coughing like something is stuck in his throat?
Coughing that sounds like something is stuck in the throat can be caused by a foreign object, respiratory infections like kennel cough, or a condition called tracheal collapse. Other possible causes include allergies, environmental irritants, or heart disease.
Why has my dog been coughing for hours even when she sleeps?
A dog coughing nonstop, especially during rest or sleep, may indicate a serious underlying condition affecting the heart or lungs. This requires immediate veterinary attention.
What should I do when my dog starts coughing?
Monitor your dog for other symptoms such as lethargy, difficulty breathing, or pale gums. Contact your veterinarian promptly to describe the cough and any associated signs. Keep your dog’s environment free of smoke and irritants and ensure they stay hydrated.
Why does my dog cough when she barks?
Coughing while barking can occur due to a sensitive airway, tracheal collapse, laryngitis, or throat irritation. It may also be a protective reflex to clear the airway. However, if persistent, it could signal kennel cough, heart disease, or another serious condition, so veterinary evaluation is recommended.
