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My older dog coughs & breathes hard. Is it heart failure? What to do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 8 years and 3 months old | 23 lbs

What is the signs of congestive heart failure or pulmonary problems in dogs? I suspect it in Tammy (she is rescued and plus minus 8 years and a mixed breed) . But i need to take her to the vet, but i first just what to confirm. She sometimes has reversed sneezing (again i think it is, can be something else too). What can i do for her so long before going to the vet? And will the condition be treatable? Because both my dogs are elder - maybe i can treat both?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Paula Simons

Veterinarian

Published on May 10th, 2017

Signs of heart disease are coughing, exercise intolerance, difficulty breathing, fainting, swollen belly, etc. Not much can be done for heart disease from home aside from reducing stress and excessive exercise. Depending on the cause, heart disease is often managed with medication but is not cured. Your veterinarian will want to listen to her heart and potentially perform an EKG if they suspect heart disease. If you suspect that your other dog has heart disease, you should also have him/her examined by a veterinarian.

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    Answered By Jeffrey Milner

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 11th, 2017

    Typically, dogs suffering from CHF will shows the following clinical signs: Coughing, exercise intolerance, decreased energy level, increased respiration rate at rest, fainting, and / or sudden death. Depending on how far along they are in the disease process, dogs can show none, some, or all of these clinical signs. Fortunately there are several medications available to treat the symptoms and increase the quality of life of patients with congestive heart failure. I hope Tammy does not have this condition, but if she does, don't lose hope.

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