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My dog is coughing and gagging after harness. Is her windpipe hurt?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Female | spayed | 3 years and 2 months old | 10 lbs

How do I know if my dog has a damaged windpipe ? She is coughing with nothing being produced for awhile now. She is also gagging and making gurgling sounds but no throw up is coming up. I did try out a new soft harness today and she went a little crazy at another dog whiling tugging against the leash. Other than that, she's acting, eating, and drinking normally. Is there any home remedy to ease her symptoms ?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 6th, 2018

Poor girl. Unfortunately there are no home remedies for an undetermined underlying cause for a cough. Coughing in itself can be caused by tracheal collapse, underlying heart condition, respiratory infection (kennel cough), etc. In order for you to treat her, we will need to find out the underlying cause. It sounds like she likely may have a kennel cough condition. Tracheal trauma is possible since you mentioned she was fine before trying out a new harness on her; however, most harnesses fit lower on the chest, which don't rub on the throat at all. Give her the rest of the day to see if things improve. You can also offer her a small amount of honey mixed with water, which can help reduce some inflammation in her throat. Continue to give her free access of water and keep her activity level to a minimum. If she is still coughing by tomorrow, then its best to take her in to your vet for a complete physical exam to hopefully narrow down some causes for this cough, so that it can be treated appropriately. I hope that Coco feels better soon! Best wishes and take care.

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