5 Unexpected Health Conditions Behind Your Dog’s Cough

Coughing in dogs can be distressing for owners, often perceived as a minor irritation or a simple infection. However, sometimes a persistent or unexplained cough might indicate more serious underlying health issues. This article explores five unexpected health conditions that could be causing your dog's cough and guides you on when to seek veterinary advice.

1. Tracheal Collapse in Small Breeds

Small and toy dog breeds such as the pug are particularly prone to tracheal collapse, especially if they are overweight. This condition occurs when the cartilage rings that support the trachea weaken and collapse inward, affecting airflow. Owners might notice a dry, honking cough, especially during exercise or excitement.

Veterinarians recommend differentiating tracheal collapse from cardiac-related coughing through clinical assessment and imaging techniques such as thoracic radiographs or CT scans. Managing weight and avoiding irritants can help alleviate symptoms, but veterinary treatment and monitoring are essential for quality of life.

2. Congestive Heart Failure

While heart problems are not the most obvious cause of a cough, congestive heart failure (CHF) can manifest as a persistent soft cough due to fluid accumulation in the lungs. This fluid causes irritation that your dog attempts to clear by coughing.

Early detection and treatment are vital. Vets commonly use medications such as furosemide to reduce fluid build-up and pimobendan to improve heart function. Timely veterinary intervention can improve your dog’s wellbeing and longevity, so do not ignore a persistent cough that lacks another explanation.

3. Parasitic Worm Infections: Heartworm and Lungworm

Though heartworm and lungworm are less common in the UK, they are serious parasitic infections affecting the heart and lungs respectively, and both can cause coughing as a symptom. These worms may cause significant damage if untreated.

Preventive antiparasitic treatments are the best defence, and diagnosis requires veterinary clinical assessment. In 2025, UK veterinary guidelines emphasise careful prescribing under physical examination, ensuring responsible treatment and minimising resistance risks. Imported animals are now subject to stricter controls to reduce exposure to these parasites.

4. Gastric Reflux Causing Respiratory Cough

Gastric reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus, causing irritation and a sensation similar to an obstruction. This discomfort may lead to coughing as your dog tries to clear the oesophageal irritation.

The condition may worsen when your dog is hungry or with irregular feeding intervals. Your vet can confirm this diagnosis and suggest effective management, including dietary changes and medications to neutralise or reduce stomach acid.

5. Foreign Bodies Lodged in the Throat

Foreign objects such as grass seeds or small pieces of toys may accidentally become lodged in your dog’s throat, causing sudden coughing and signs of distress like pawing at the mouth or gagging. This situation is an emergency requiring prompt veterinary attention.

Veterinarians often use radiographic imaging or endoscopy to locate and safely remove the object, preventing further injury or infection. Urgent care is essential to relieve your dog’s discomfort and ensure safety.

Responsible Ownership and When to See the Vet

While many coughs are mild and transient, it is important to monitor the duration, frequency, and associated signs such as difficulty breathing, lethargy, or distress. Early consultation with your vet helps accurately diagnose the cause and begin appropriate treatment.

Remember that responsible dog ownership includes regular health check-ups, maintaining a suitable weight, parasite prevention, and providing a safe environment. This can help reduce the risk of many health conditions affecting your dog’s respiratory health.

For those considering new breeds susceptible to certain conditions, such as pug puppies, seek reputable breeders who prioritise health screening and responsible breeding practices.

If you notice a persistent cough or sudden coughing accompanied by distress in your dog, contact your vet promptly for a thorough examination and peace of mind.