Why Does My Dog Have a Dry Cough and Then Gag?

The Difference Between Coughing and Gagging in Dogs

A dry cough in dogs can be caused by various reasons, including allergies, kennel cough, tracheal collapse, chronic bronchitis, or even heart disease. If your dog’s cough is persistent or worsens, it’s essential to consult with a veterinarian to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. Have you ever watched your dog hack like a smoker from a ’50s detective movie and then suddenly make that awkward gagging sound? It can be pretty alarming, especially when it happens more than once. But here’s the first step in understanding the situation: coughing and gagging are not the same, even though they often show up together.

Coughing is your dog’s way of clearing their throat or airway, kind of like when we get something caught and try to cough it out. It’s typically a sharp, forceful expulsion of air, sometimes sounding like a honk, wheeze, or dry bark. Gagging, on the other hand, is more like a choking reflex—it’s the body’s way of trying to expel something from the throat or mouth. It often follows coughing episodes, especially if the cough has irritated the throat.

In some cases, dogs cough so much and so hard that they trigger the gag reflex afterward. Think of it like when you have a dry, tickly cough that makes your throat raw, and then it feels like you might vomit afterward—not fun, right? That’s often what your pup is going through.

Understanding the difference matters because each symptom points to slightly different causes. Coughing often stems from issues in the lungs, trachea, or throat, while gagging can be due to problems in the throat, esophagus, or mouth. When both are happening together, it usually indicates that something is irritating both the airway and the throat, and that’s when you start connecting the dots on potential causes.

So, if your dog seems to go into a dry coughing fit followed by gagging, don’t ignore it. It’s their body waving a red flag. Now let’s dig deeper into the most common reasons why this might be happening.

What a Dry Cough Sounds Like in Dogs

When people describe a “dry cough” in dogs, they usually mean that there’s no mucus or phlegm involved—it’s just a dry, hacking sound, almost like a honk or a series of sharp “ugh-ugh” sounds. If your dog’s cough reminds you of an old car trying to start or a goose honking in the distance, you’re on the right track.

This kind of cough can be particularly concerning because it tends to repeat, often comes in bouts, and can leave your dog visibly uncomfortable or even exhausted. You may also notice that your dog stretches their neck out or opens their mouth wide during a coughing fit—these are signs that the cough is coming from deep within their airway or chest.

Sometimes, a dry cough can also seem like your dog is trying to clear their throat constantly, especially after drinking water, eating, or getting excited. This is because activity or changes in posture can sometimes trigger the cough if there’s something pressing against the trachea or lungs, or if the airways are inflamed.

Listen closely: if the cough is persistent, forceful, and comes with gagging, it’s not just an occasional tickle—it’s a sign that something in your dog’s respiratory system needs attention. It’s also helpful to record the sound if possible, so you can share it with your vet for a quicker diagnosis.

So, what exactly could be causing all this? Let’s break down the most common culprits behind that irritating dry cough and the gagging that follows.

Common Causes of Dry Cough and Gagging in Dogs

Kennel Cough (Canine Infectious Tracheobronchitis)

Kennel cough is like the canine version of a nasty cold, but it hits your dog right in the throat and lungs. It’s incredibly contagious—think of it as the dog park plague—and it’s one of the most frequent causes of a dry, hacking cough followed by gagging.

This condition is usually caused by a mix of viruses and bacteria, including Bordetella bronchiseptica, canine adenovirus, and parainfluenza virus. It spreads like wildfire in areas where dogs are in close contact—kennels, grooming salons, doggy daycares, even at the vet.

Symptoms often start with that signature dry cough that sounds like your dog’s trying to clear their throat with no success. The cough can be so intense that it causes gagging or even retching. You might also see other signs like:

Sneezing
Nasal discharge
Mild fever
Loss of appetite
Lethargy

The good news? Kennel cough is usually not fatal and can clear up on its own in mild cases. But don’t let that fool you—some dogs, especially puppies, seniors, or those with compromised immune systems, can develop complications like pneumonia.

If you suspect kennel cough, keep your dog away from other pets and call your vet. They may prescribe antibiotics (if bacteria are involved), cough suppressants, or anti-inflammatory meds to ease the symptoms. And don’t forget—there’s a vaccine for kennel cough, so prevention is easier than cure!

Tracheal Collapse

Imagine trying to breathe through a squishy straw. That’s what dogs with a collapsed trachea go through. Tracheal collapse is especially common in small breeds like Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, and Yorkies, and it’s a chronic condition where the windpipe weakens and starts to collapse inward.

The result? That harsh, dry, goose-honk cough that often ends in gagging. You might notice it gets worse when your dog gets excited, pulls on their collar, eats, drinks, or gets too warm. It’s heartbreaking to watch because the cough just won’t quit—and it doesn’t sound very good.

This condition can range from mild to severe. In serious cases, it can lead to difficulty breathing, bluish gums, and even fainting spells. That’s why early intervention matters. Your vet might recommend:

Anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce swelling
Cough suppressants to ease discomfort
Bronchodilators to open the airway
Switching from a collar to a harness
Weight management, since obesity worsens the condition

Surgery is an option in extreme cases, but it’s not always necessary. The key is management—keeping your pup comfy, calm, and cool can go a long way in minimizing the symptoms.

Heart Disease

Heart disease in dogs doesn’t just affect their ticker—it can also mess with their lungs and throat, leading to dry coughing and even gagging. One of the most common types of heart disease in dogs, especially older ones and certain breeds like Cavalier King Charles Spaniels or Dobermans, is congestive heart failure (CHF).

So, how does the heart tie into coughing? Well, when the heart starts to fail, it can’t pump blood efficiently. This causes fluid to build up in the lungs—a condition called pulmonary edema. The result? Your dog starts coughing to try to clear the fluid, and that can lead to gagging or even vomiting if it gets intense.

The cough from heart disease is usually:

Dry and persistent
Worse at night or after your dog lies down
Triggered by physical activity

Other signs you might notice include:

Fatigue or weakness
Difficulty breathing
Swollen abdomen
Pale gums
Fainting spells

If your dog is showing any combination of these symptoms, get them to the vet ASAP. Diagnosing heart disease usually involves chest X-rays, an echocardiogram, and blood pressure testing. Treatment often includes medications like:

Diuretics (to remove excess fluid)
ACE inhibitors (to ease heart strain)
Pimobendan (a heart-strengthening drug)

Managing your dog’s weight, stress, and exercise is crucial too. While heart disease can’t always be cured, it can often be controlled to give your dog a good quality of life.

Canine Influenza or Respiratory Infections

Just like humans, dogs can catch the flu. And when they do, one of the first symptoms is—you guessed it—a dry, hacking cough. Canine influenza is highly contagious, especially in environments like shelters, daycares, or dog parks. And while most healthy dogs recover within a few weeks, it can become serious if left untreated.

The dry cough caused by the flu is often accompanied by:

Sneezing
Runny nose and eyes
Fever
Lethargy
Loss of appetite

Because these symptoms are so similar to kennel cough, only your vet can really tell the difference. The diagnosis may require swabs, blood work, and a chest X-ray. In most cases, treatment includes rest, hydration, and sometimes antibiotics if a secondary bacterial infection is present.

If your dog has a weakened immune system or is a senior, they may need more intensive care. And just like with human flu, there’s a canine influenza vaccine that can help prevent infection—something to consider if your dog is often around other dogs.

So if your pup’s coughing and gagging seems to come on suddenly along with flu-like symptoms, don’t brush it off. The sooner you catch it, the faster your furry friend can bounce back.

Allergies and Environmental Irritants

Think your dog might be allergic to something in the air? You could be spot on. Allergies aren’t just a human thing—dogs can suffer too, and one of the lesser-known symptoms is a dry cough that leads to gagging.

Dust, pollen, smoke, household cleaners, perfumes, or even air fresheners can irritate your dog’s respiratory system. In some cases, seasonal allergies can lead to chronic coughing, especially if your pup spends a lot of time outdoors or near known allergens.

Here’s how to tell if allergies are to blame:

The cough seems to come and go with changes in weather or seasons
Your dog also has itchy skin, watery eyes, or sneezing
It gets worse after cleaning, burning candles, or spraying air fresheners

What can you do? Start with removing or minimizing the irritants. Use a HEPA filter in your home, switch to unscented cleaning products, and avoid smoking indoors. Bathing your dog more frequently during allergy season can also help remove pollen and dust from their coat.

For more persistent symptoms, your vet might suggest antihistamines, steroids, or allergy testing. In rare cases, chronic allergic reactions can lead to inflammation in the lungs or trachea—so don’t ignore that recurring cough and gag.

Parasites Such as Heartworms or Lungworms

Here’s something many dog owners overlook: parasites like heartworms and lungworms can actually cause your dog to cough—and it can get nasty.

Heartworms are transmitted by mosquitoes, and once they get inside your dog, they set up shop in the heart and lungs. This causes inflammation, lung damage, and—you guessed it—a dry, persistent cough that often leads to gagging. Lungworms, on the other hand, live directly in the respiratory system and cause irritation that leads to similar symptoms.

Other signs of parasitic infection include:

Fatigue and weakness
Labored breathing
Weight loss
Decreased appetite
Vomiting in severe cases

Heartworm disease is incredibly serious and can be fatal if not treated. The treatment itself is complex, expensive, and rough on the dog—so prevention is key. Talk to your vet about monthly preventatives that protect against both heartworms and other parasites.

If your dog has a chronic cough and has missed a few doses of heartworm prevention, get them tested immediately. A simple blood test can reveal a lot—and might just save your dog’s life.

Less Common but Serious Causes

Foreign Bodies in the Throat or Airways

Sometimes, a dry cough and gagging episode can be caused by something as simple—and as dangerous—as a foreign object stuck in your dog’s throat. Dogs are curious by nature. They chew on sticks, gnaw on bones, and sometimes swallow things they shouldn’t, like small toys, fabric, or even sharp objects.

When a foreign body gets lodged in the throat or airway, your dog’s body goes into overdrive to try and remove it. That’s when you’ll hear that harsh coughing followed by intense gagging. It might sound like your dog is trying to vomit, but nothing comes out. Scary, right?

Other signs to watch for:

Pawing at the mouth
Drooling excessively
Difficulty swallowing or breathing
Panic or signs of distress

In these cases, time is of the essence. If you suspect something is stuck in your dog’s throat, don’t try to remove it yourself unless it’s clearly visible and easily reachable. Attempting to remove it could push it farther in. Take your dog to the vet or emergency clinic immediately. An X-ray or endoscopy may be needed to locate and remove the object safely.

Preventing these incidents means dog-proofing your home and yard. Keep small items out of reach, avoid giving bones that can splinter, and always supervise your dog with new toys or chews.

Tumors or Growths

Though it’s not the first thing that comes to mind, tumors—whether benign or cancerous—can also cause persistent coughing and gagging in dogs. These growths can develop in the lungs, throat, or around the heart, putting pressure on the airways and causing irritation.

A dog with a tumor in the respiratory tract might show the following signs:

A dry, persistent cough
Gagging or retching, especially after coughing
Wheezing or noisy breathing
Rapid weight loss
Loss of appetite
Lethargy or reduced stamina

Unlike other conditions, these symptoms tend to get worse over time rather than improve. Tumors can also cause fluid to build up in the lungs, mimicking the symptoms of heart failure.

Diagnosis usually involves imaging tests like chest X-rays, ultrasounds, or a CT scan. In some cases, a biopsy might be needed to determine if the growth is malignant. Treatment depends on the location and type of tumor and may involve surgery, chemotherapy, or palliative care.

While the word “tumor” can send any pet parent into a panic, remember that not all growths are cancerous. Early diagnosis gives your dog the best chance at treatment and comfort.

Reverse Sneezing vs. Dry Coughing

It’s easy to mistake reverse sneezing for coughing, especially if you’ve never seen it before. But here’s the deal—they’re very different things, and knowing which one your dog is doing can save you a lot of worry.

Reverse sneezing is a sudden, rapid inhalation through the nose that makes a loud snorting or honking sound. It often happens when your dog gets excited, eats or drinks too fast, or is exposed to an irritant like dust or perfume. It can look—and sound—like your dog is choking or struggling to breathe.

Key differences between reverse sneezing and dry coughing:

Feature	Dry Coughing	Reverse Sneezing
Sound	Harsh, hacking, honking	Snorting, rapid inhaling
Duration	Can be persistent	Usually lasts 10–30 seconds
Cause	Illness, tracheal issues	Irritants, excitement, sudden change
Positioning	Dog may extend neck, gag	Dog may stand still, flare nostrils
Treatment Needed?	Often yes	Usually no (unless chronic)

Reverse sneezing usually resolves on its own and doesn’t need treatment unless it’s happening frequently. If it becomes chronic or your dog seems distressed, a vet visit is a good idea to rule out nasal infections or polyps.

Dry coughing, especially when followed by gagging, is a much stronger red flag and deserves closer attention. The key is watching how often it happens, what triggers it, and whether it’s getting worse.

When to Be Concerned About a Dog’s Cough

Duration and Frequency of Coughing

Not all coughs are created equal. Some are fleeting and harmless, but others are a signal that something is seriously wrong. One of the best indicators of whether your dog’s cough is cause for concern is how long and how often it happens.

Here’s a quick guide:

Occasional cough after excitement or drinking water? Likely not serious.
Daily coughing fits that last more than a few days? Time to call the vet.
Coughing that worsens at night or after lying down? Could be heart-related.
Frequent gagging after coughing? Might indicate throat irritation or infection.

Track the frequency of the cough and make notes. When does it happen? After food? During exercise? At rest? This info can be incredibly helpful for your vet to pinpoint the cause.

Also, consider the type of cough—wet, dry, honking, hacking, gagging—it all tells a story. The more details you can provide, the faster your dog can get relief.

Associated Symptoms to Watch Out For

Coughing and gagging on their own are concerning, but when they come with other symptoms, it’s a big flashing warning sign. Here’s what else you should watch for:

Labored or rapid breathing
Blue or pale gums
Lethargy or weakness
Loss of appetite
Vomiting or retching
Swollen abdomen
Weight loss

These can point to more serious underlying conditions like pneumonia, heart disease, tumors, or parasitic infections. Don’t wait until things escalate. Early treatment often leads to a better outcome, and fewer vet bills down the line.

If your dog has a cough that lasts more than 3–5 days, or you notice any of the above symptoms, schedule a vet appointment. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your furry friend’s health.

Diagnosing the Cause of a Dry Cough

What to Expect During a Vet Visit

When your dog is coughing and gagging regularly, it’s time to take action—and that starts with a trip to the vet. Understanding what happens during a vet visit can help you feel more prepared and ensure you ask the right questions.

First, your vet will take a complete medical history. They’ll ask you about the cough’s onset, frequency, sound, triggers, and accompanying symptoms. Be as detailed as possible. Bring a video of the coughing if you can—this can be a huge help.

Next comes the physical exam. Your vet will listen to your dog’s heart and lungs using a stethoscope, check their temperature, and inspect their throat and mouth for signs of irritation or foreign bodies.

From there, your vet may suggest diagnostic tests, including:

X-rays: To check for issues in the lungs, heart, or trachea.
Blood tests: To look for infections, inflammation, or signs of heartworm disease.
Heartworm test: Especially if your dog isn’t on monthly prevention.
Fecal test: To rule out lungworms or other internal parasites.
Throat swabs: To test for bacterial or viral infections like kennel cough or flu.

Depending on the findings, your vet may also refer you to a veterinary cardiologist or pulmonologist for more advanced diagnostics like an echocardiogram or bronchoscopy.

Getting to the root cause of your dog’s cough is crucial. It’s the only way to ensure your dog gets the right treatment and relief. The more info you bring to the table, the better your vet can help.

Tests and Imaging Your Dog Might Need

Diagnosing the exact cause of a dry cough often requires more than just a physical exam. Here are some of the most common diagnostic tools vets use to uncover what’s going on in your dog’s chest and airways:

Chest X-Rays (Radiographs)
These are often the first test ordered. They provide a detailed look at your dog’s lungs, trachea, and heart. Vets can spot things like fluid in the lungs, tumors, an enlarged heart, or signs of tracheal collapse.
Complete Blood Count (CBC) and Blood Chemistry Panel
These tests give insight into your dog’s overall health, checking for infections, inflammation, organ function, and more. Elevated white blood cells might suggest infection, while other markers can hint at heart or liver issues.
Heartworm Testing
A simple blood test can detect heartworm antigens. If your dog isn’t on a preventative and is showing signs of coughing and lethargy, this is a must.
Echocardiogram (Heart Ultrasound)
This non-invasive test provides a live view of your dog’s heart in action. It’s key for diagnosing heart conditions like congestive heart failure or cardiomyopathy.
Bronchoscopy
This involves inserting a tiny camera into your dog’s airways to look for abnormalities, foreign bodies, or tumors. It can also allow for biopsy or fluid collection for lab testing.
Tracheal Wash or BAL (Bronchoalveolar Lavage)
This test collects samples from deep within your dog’s lungs and is useful for diagnosing chronic infections, inflammation, or cancer.
Allergy Testing
If your vet suspects your dog’s coughing is due to environmental allergens, allergy testing (either blood or intradermal) might be recommended.

Advanced diagnostics might seem overwhelming, but they’re essential for getting an accurate diagnosis and tailoring the right treatment plan for your dog. While not every case will need all these tests, it’s good to know what’s available and what each one helps uncover.

Treatment Options for a Dog’s Dry Cough

Medications and Prescriptions

Once the cause of your dog’s cough is identified, treatment can begin, and medications are often the first line of defense. Depending on the diagnosis, your vet may prescribe one or more of the following:

Cough suppressants (like hydrocodone or butorphanol): These are used for harsh, dry, non-productive coughs, especially in cases like kennel cough or tracheal collapse.
Antibiotics: For bacterial infections like kennel cough or pneumonia.
Anti-inflammatories: To reduce swelling and irritation in the airways.
Bronchodilators: Help open up constricted airways, making breathing easier—often used in cases of chronic bronchitis or tracheal collapse.
Diuretics: Used when heart disease causes fluid buildup in the lungs.
Heart medications: ACE inhibitors or pimobendan may be needed if heart failure is diagnosed.
Steroids: Sometimes prescribed for allergies or autoimmune conditions that lead to respiratory issues.

It’s important to follow your vet’s instructions exactly. Don’t stop medications early—even if your dog seems better. Also, avoid giving human medications unless specifically advised by your vet; many can be toxic to dogs.

Home Remedies and Comfort Tips

While meds play a critical role, you can also do a lot at home to help soothe your dog’s cough and make them more comfortable during recovery. Here are some safe and vet-approved home care strategies:

Use a humidifier: Dry air irritates your dog’s airways. A cool-mist humidifier can help add moisture and ease coughing.
Steam therapy: Let your dog sit in the bathroom with the hot shower running (not in the water!)—the steam can loosen mucus and ease breathing.
Encourage rest: Avoid strenuous activity until your dog is fully recovered. Rest helps the body heal.
Honey (for dogs over 1 year old): A small spoon of raw honey can coat the throat and calm a cough. Don’t give honey to puppies.
Switch to a harness: If your dog has tracheal issues, a collar can make things worse. A harness takes pressure off the throat.
Limit exposure to irritants: No smoking, strong cleaners, perfumes, or dusty areas while your dog recovers.

Home remedies can support recovery, but should never replace proper veterinary care. Always consult your vet before trying anything new, especially herbal supplements or alternative treatments.

Lifestyle Adjustments for Respiratory Relief

If your dog is dealing with a chronic condition like tracheal collapse, allergies, or heart disease, ongoing lifestyle changes can make a huge difference in keeping symptoms under control.

Here’s what helps long-term:

Weight management: Extra pounds make breathing harder. Help your dog stay at a healthy weight to reduce strain on their heart and lungs.
Regular but gentle exercise: Keep your dog active, but avoid overexertion, especially in hot or humid weather.
Environmental control: Use air purifiers, avoid scented products, and vacuum regularly to minimize allergens.
Elevated food bowls: For dogs with collapsing trachea or esophageal issues, raising their food and water bowls can make eating easier.
Routine vet visits: Chronic conditions require close monitoring. Regular checkups help catch problems early and adjust treatments as needed.

Living with a dog that coughs and gags doesn’t mean you’re powerless. With the right blend of treatment, environment, and care, your dog can still enjoy a happy, active life.

Prevention and Care Tips

Vaccination and Regular Vet Visits

The best way to manage dry cough and gagging in dogs? Prevent it in the first place. Preventive care isn’t just about keeping up appearances at the vet—it’s your first line of defense against some of the most common (and contagious) causes of coughing.

Here’s what you should focus on:

Kennel Cough Vaccine (Bordetella): Essential if your dog goes to daycare, boarding, grooming salons, or anywhere dogs gather. It’s often given as a nasal spray or injection and helps prevent one of the top causes of dry cough.
Canine Influenza Vaccine: Like human flu, this virus can knock your dog off their paws. The vaccine isn’t mandatory, but it’s smart if your dog is often around other dogs.
Heartworm Preventative: Monthly meds (topical or oral) are a must. They don’t just protect your dog—they can literally save their life.
Deworming and Parasite Control: Your vet may recommend fecal testing and regular dewormers to prevent lungworms and other pests.
Annual Checkups: Even if your dog seems healthy, regular vet visits can detect heart disease, allergies, or other conditions early—before a cough even begins.

Keep your dog’s vaccine records up to date, and be proactive about their health. Prevention is always cheaper (and kinder) than treatment.

Avoiding Irritants and Stressors

Many cough-inducing issues in dogs come from everyday things in their environment. That means you can make a big difference just by adjusting a few habits at home.

Here are some practical ways to minimize irritants and stress:

Avoid smoke: Cigarette smoke is extremely harmful to dogs. Don’t smoke around your dog, and keep them away from smoky environments.
Choose fragrance-free products: Cleaners, sprays, and candles can contain chemicals that irritate a dog’s airways. Go unscented whenever possible.
Reduce dust and allergens: Vacuum frequently, wash your dog’s bedding weekly, and consider a HEPA filter to clean the air.
Limit exposure to cold air: Cold, dry weather can aggravate a dry cough. Use a humidifier and limit time outside in freezing temps.
Avoid leash pulling: Use a harness instead of a collar, especially for small breeds prone to tracheal collapse.

Stress is another sneaky trigger. Excitement, anxiety, or overexertion can make coughing worse. Help your dog stay calm with consistent routines, gentle exercise, and plenty of down time.

Small changes can go a long way. Create a calm, clean environment, and your dog’s respiratory health will thank you.

Proper Nutrition and Hydration

You may not connect coughing with food and water, but your dog’s diet plays a powerful role in supporting their immune system and managing chronic conditions.

Let’s break it down:

Hydration: Moisture is key for keeping your dog’s throat and airways from getting dry and irritated. Make sure they always have access to fresh water. If they’re reluctant drinkers, try adding water or bone broth to their food.
Balanced diet: A diet rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and quality protein supports immune function and reduces inflammation. Look for dog food with natural ingredients—avoid artificial fillers and additives.
Supplements: Depending on your dog’s needs, your vet might suggest:
- Omega-3s (for anti-inflammatory support)
- Probiotics (to support immune health)
- Glucosamine (to support aging dogs who may have coughing tied to joint/muscle stiffness)
Avoid table scraps: Foods high in fat, sugar, or spice can irritate the esophagus and trigger coughing or acid reflux, which can cause gagging.

Good nutrition isn’t a cure-all, but it gives your dog the tools their body needs to fight off infections, bounce back from illness, and manage long-term conditions like heart disease or allergies.

Conclusion

A dry cough followed by gagging in dogs isn’t just annoying—it’s a red flag that something might be wrong. Whether it’s caused by kennel cough, heart disease, tracheal collapse, or even a foreign object, this kind of coughing shouldn’t be ignored. It’s your dog’s way of saying, “Hey, something’s not right here!”

While some causes are mild and pass with rest and medication, others require urgent medical attention. The key is knowing the difference—and acting quickly when you notice the signs. Pay close attention to when the cough happens, how often, and whether other symptoms are involved. And never hesitate to contact your vet when in doubt.

With the right combination of vet care, home support, and prevention, your dog can breathe easier—literally. So stay alert, stay informed, and most importantly, stay connected to your pup. After all, they depend on you to speak up when they can’t.

FAQs

1. Can kennel cough go away on its own?

Yes, mild cases of kennel cough often clear up on their own in about 1–2 weeks. However, it’s best to check with a vet to rule out more serious causes and prevent the infection from spreading.

2. Is a dry cough always serious in dogs?

Not always. A dry cough can be triggered by something as minor as dust or excitement. But if it persists, becomes frequent, or is paired with gagging or other symptoms, it’s time to visit the vet.

3. How can I soothe my dog’s throat naturally?

Using a humidifier, offering small amounts of raw honey (if your dog is over one year old), and keeping them hydrated can all help ease throat irritation. Always check with your vet before giving any home remedy.

4. What’s the difference between a gag and a cough in dogs?

A cough is a forceful expulsion of air from the lungs, usually dry and hacking. A gag is more of a throat reflex and often follows coughing. It sounds like retching or choking and usually doesn’t produce anything.

5. Should I let my dog exercise if he has a cough?

Light exercise may be okay in mild cases, but strenuous activity can worsen symptoms, especially if your dog has heart disease or respiratory illness. Always ask your vet for personalized guidance.

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