max,6 years old lab-sherperd mix

Question
My dogs has started coughing today, he coughs worst when outside. He been in most of tonight and he been fairly quiet. It sounds like he gagging on something, I checked and didn't see anything. I'd like to not take him to the vet do to his aggression towards them. (he has only been aggressive towards them.) I think he have to be under some sort of sedative to be check. I have to puppies, both vet checked and they are healthy. Any help would be get. Today is 10-26-06. Thank you!

Answer
Hi Korie :-)

Coughing in Dogs can occur for a variety of reasons. In smaller, middle aged Dogs it is usually Heart related such as a Enlarged Heart. But because the coughing has just started, I wouldn't think it was Heart related but more of a viral thing he has picked up.

If your Dog was recently in Kennels (within the last 2 months) it is most likely Kennel Cough but dogs are usually infected with Kennel Cough within 7 days of coming into contacted with a infected Dog.

Also, some extreme coughing can be related to trachea problems and this will sound like the Dog is gagging on something. But the gagging cough is also a sign of Kennel Cough.

Corticosteriods is usually used in treatment for dry or gagging coughs in Dogs or alternatively, Antibiotics which usually don't have any effect on the cough unless it is caused by a chest infection.

If you live in a area where Lung Worms are prevalent I would recommend you use a de-worming product just incase this is causing his cough. The treatment for this is usually Panacur. I think you will need to purchase this from your Vet.

Or alternatively, ask your Vet to perform a Tracheal Wash incase it is his trachea which is causing the coughing.

For a home remedy I would recommend you purchase some Honey. Any kind is fine, and slowly dribble this into the back of your Dogs throat. Do this 2-3 times a day, depending on how much he is coughing and see if you notice a improvement within 7 days. If you don't then you will probably have to take him to the Vet hun for a examination incase he needs medication for a infection.

Take care and all the best and please leave me a comment.

Trisha x