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Why is my dog coughing, tilting head, and curling lip? Valley Fever?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Australian Shepherd - miniature | Female | spayed | 3 years and 1 month old | 30 lbs

My dog Rosie has been acting like she has something caught in her throat. But seemed better. Right now she is laying quietly, but then tilts her head to the right and curls her lip? What could be wrong. Is this a symptom of valley fever?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 10th, 2017

It's difficult to tell what's going on without seeing the behavior, but they often look like they have something stuck in the throat when they are coughing. In that case, then Valley Fever would be suspect in your area, but there are many other bugs that can cause similar signs. It's best if you can take Rosie to see the vet and get this problem diagnosed. We are often able to treat for these problems and stop the coughing right away. If you can record your dog doing the behavior that you are describing, then this will be a great help to your vet . I hope that helps and Rosie gets better soon.

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