Why is My Dog Coughing Like Something is Stuck in His Throat?

Many different conditions can make your dog cough. Some of these are common conditions that are easily treated, while others are more serious. If your dog is coughing like something is stuck in his throat, you should take him to the veterinarian without delay. The veterinarian can make a proper diagnosis and prescribe the appropriate treatment. In the meantime, read on to find out possible causes that can make a dog cough like something is stuck in the throat.

What can make a dog cough like something is stuck in his throat?

In dogs and humans, cough is the body’s way of protecting itself by expelling something out of the respiratory tract. Dogs cough to remove mucus, foreign objects, dust, or debris from their airways. An occasional short cough is not something to worry about. It’s similar to humans clearing their throat. But if your dog has a persistent cough, it could be something more serious going on, such as:

• Foreign objects stuck in the throat – if your dog keeps coughing like something is stuck in his throat, the reason might be the most obvious one. Check to see if you can see anything lodged in the throat.
• Dog flu – this is a highly contagious viral infection (it’s caused by a different virus than human flu and does not spread from dogs to humans).
• Pneumonia – when infection and inflammation spread to your dog’s lungs, it is called pneumonia. A wet, phlegmy cough that sounds like gargling can be a symptom of this serious condition which should be evaluated and treated by a veterinarian without delay.
• Kennel cough – this is a contagious upper respiratory illness that often spreads in places where many dogs come together, such as kennels and dog parks. It causes a dry, hacking cough or a cough that sounds like a goose honk.
• Environmental allergens – pollen, dust, cigarette smoke, chemical fumes and other environmental allergens can make your dog cough.
• Tracheal collapse – this is a condition that tends to affect toy and small dog breeds. The wind pipe softens and collapses, making it harder for your dog to breathe and causing a dry, hacking cough that sounds like something is stuck in your dog’s throat.

Should I take my dog to the vet for a cough?

An occasional cough is not something to worry about. But if your furry friend’s cough persists, you should get it checked out by the veterinarian. It could be from something easily treatable that can become a serious problem if it is not treated in a timely manner. It is especially important to take your dog to the vet if he or she has a persistent or worsening cough accompanied by fever or loss of appetite. It’s important to know the signs of a happy, healthy dog, so that you can recognize when things are not normal.

How to treat my dog’s cough at home?

Always get your dog’s cough evaluated by a veterinarian. They can figure out exactly what’s going on and recommend the best treatment. Once you know what’s causing the cough and are treating it, some common home remedies for a dog’s cough can provide relief and keep your pooch comfortable. This includes providing a draft-free area for your dog to rest, plenty of fluids, use of a humidifier to prevent dry air (you can even keep your dog in the bathroom when you take a hot steam shower), and loosening your dog’s collar or harness for comfort.

Keep reading the Puppy Hero blog for more useful information. Here are some tips on dog health that every pet parent should follow.