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My new puppy is coughing, discharge, low energy. Emergency vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 2 months and 24 days old | 14 lbs

My newly adopted puppy (11 weeks old, adopted friday from humane society) has some discharge from his nose(Whiteish) and is coughing, and is a little lower in energy. he is eating fine and his poop looks normal. Do I need to see an emergency vet or will tomorrow be fine?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on December 20th, 2017

I’m sorry Dickens isn’t feeling. If he seems to be struggling to breathe at all then he should be seen tonight, otherwise I think an appointment with your regular veterinarian tomorrow is fine. Upper respiratory tract infections are common especially in newly adopted shelters patients. However, I would also have distemper on my list of concerns. Your veterinarian may consider starting him on some antibiotics. In the meantime I would encourage you to take him into the bathroom and run the shower to humidify him every several hours. Best of luck and I hope he improves soon. Thank you for using Pet Coach.

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    Answered By Ana M, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on June 24th, 2018

    Thank you for submitting your question regarding Doug. He may be experiencing symptoms related to an upper respiratory tract infection. This can be common in puppies. A lot of times an affected puppy will cough up a white foamy material. They may experience eye or nose discharge as well. So check him for those signs. If his symptoms persist, he will need to see his veterinarian. If he appears to be choking or truly struggling to breathe, he will need to see an emergency veterinarian now. If he is still eating and drinking and acting like himself, then he should be ok until tomorrow morning. He will likely need a medication to stop his coughing. In the meantime, keep him quiet and do not allow him around other dogs as he may be contagious. I hope this information helps!

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