Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

Why is my dog coughing up bloody mucus and breathing heavily now?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 7 years and 2 months old | 50 lbs

My dog is coughing up mucus like liquid with a spot of blood and heavy breathing. What do u think it is?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on February 8th, 2018

Hello. I am sorry that Bella is unwell. This sounds serious enough that I would really encourage you to have her examined as soon as possible. Coughing & heavy breathing can be a sign of infection from bacterial or fungal sources ( pneumonia ), inflammation from chronic bronchitis, heartworm disease, or cancer. I hope you can have her seen soon so the appropriate treatment can be started. The longer you wait, the more potential for permanent lung damage to occur. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Sponsored