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Why is my healthy dog coughing persistently with congested breathing?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

My dog acts healthy, but has a persistent cough and pulmonary congestion with course breath sounds. What could be wrong with him?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on December 4th, 2016

There are a couple of things that could be wrong with your dog. He could have chronic bronchitis, heart problems, heartworm disease, or possibly cancer. I would take him into the vet in the morning for an exam. The vet can do a physical exam, routine blood tests, a urinalysis, and x-rays to see what is causing his cough. Once a cause is found, the vet can prescribe an appropriate course of treatment.

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