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Why is my Shih Tzu coughing, struggling to breathe, and throwing up?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Male | neutered | 9 years and 8 months old | 15 lbs

My shihtzu extending neck and cougging like cant breath then throwing up mucus and grass doesn't want food what do i do current on all shots sneezing as well

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 16th, 2017

Hi there and thank you for your post! From your description, it sounds as though Winston may be fighting a respiratory infection that may be getting much more severe. Especially if the neck is now becoming extended, this means that Winston is struggling to breath quite a bit. I would suggest you get him seen by a vet sooner rather than later. It is possible that he will need antibiotic therapy and hospitalization if his breathing is worsening. Bringing him into the bathroom with the hot water running so he breathes in the steam may help with his breathing. I would strongly encourage you to get him seen by a licensed vet though for appropriate treatment. I hope this helps! Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns! I hope Winston improves!

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