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My 4-month-old puppy has a runny nose and cough. Should I see a vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Staffordshire Terrier | Female | unspayed | 4 months and 3 days old | 22 lbs

My 4 month old American Staffordshire (up to date with all vaccinations) has developed some cold like symptoms. Slightly less energy, runny nose, very minimal coughing and/or sneezing. She is still eating and drinking as per normal. Does this sound serious enough to take to a vet, she does not seem to be showing dramatic symptoms. Thank you

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 4th, 2017

This is suspicious of kennel cough, which is an infection of the upper respiratory system. Kennel cough is most suspicious if Lexie has been in contact with other dogs in the past month or so. If Lexie has not had contact with other dogs, then the cough is likely due to something else. They can develop a cough and runny nose with conditions like distemper, allergies, heart worm, heart disease and lung worm. For this reason, it's best to have Lexie checked out by a veterinarian. They will be able to determine the cause of this and prescribe the appropriate treatment. It's definitely doesn't appear to be an emergency though, so you are safe to wait a day or two to see if it gets better (can happen with some viral diseases). I hope that helps and Lexie gets better soon.

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    Answered By Oneal Bogan, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Hi there. I would recommend taking Lexie to your vet. Her symptoms are mild, but can be early signs or kennel cough or canine influenza, or another respiratory infection. Caught early, we can intervene with simple treatments. I hope that helps and thanks for using Pet Coach!

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