Symptom: Coughing – Why is my dog coughing?
Does my pet have a cough?
A cough in dogs can present in various forms, such as:
Deep and dry
Wet and phlegmy
High pitch gag
The cough may sometimes be accompanied by bringing up some fluid or foam.
Written by Dr. Mariella Roberts, Veterinary Surgeon, Animal Trust Vets CIC | Published October 2025 | Review date October 2028 | This advice is for UK pets only and is not a replacement for seeing a vet
Frequently asked questions
What are the common reasons why my dog is coughing?
- Kennel cough
- Other bacterial or viral infection
- Chronic bronchitis
- Heart disease, such as congestive heart failure, with fluids affecting the airways
- Tracheal collapse (dog’s windpipe collapse)
- Foreign objects (stuck in the dog’s throat)
- Tumours affecting the windpipe, larynx or lungs
DO’s – What can I do at home if my dog is coughing?
- Ensure that the environment is well-ventilated and free of dust, smoke and cooking fumes.
- Use a body harness rather than a neck collar when walking your dog and keep walks short while they have a cough, avoiding meeting with other dogs.
DON'Ts – What I shouldn't do at home if my dog is coughing?
- Avoid exposing your dog to smoke and various irritants.
- Limit activity and ensure your dog gets plenty of rest to avoid worsening his/her cough.
- Keep your dog isolated from other dogs, especially in public areas, as he/she may be contagious.
When should I consider taking my pet to the vet if they have a cough?
- If your dog has been coughing for more than 48 hours and has no other symptoms.
- When your dog brings up yellow/green phlegm after coughing.
- If your dog seems unwell/lethargic.
- If your dog’s breathing seems different to normal.
My pet is coughing. When is it an emergency?
- If there are signs of anaphylaxis (collapse, rapid breathing, pale gums), or severe self-injury such as open wounds. - If your dog is struggling to breathe or their breathing is much heavier than normal.
- If your dog’s gums are blue (cyanosis).
- If your dog is assuming an unusual position, e.g. standing with its neck stretched forward, or elbows stretched out.
- If your dog doesn’t want to get up or has trouble standing or walking.