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Why is my dog hacking and vomiting white phlegm? Should I see a vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Female | spayed | 5 years old | 70 lbs

For the past two weeks, my dog has been hacking and vomiting up thick, white phlegm. There isn't any food that comes up with it and half the time, nothing comes up, she's simply hacking. There has been no weight loss to notice but she is a very active dog so she is thin. Other than the hacking and occasional vomiting, there are no other symptoms as to what her ailment may be. Would it be wise to take her to a vet?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on August 20th, 2018

Yes, it would definitely be wise to take Luna into the vet. This hacking isn't normal, and it could be she has a respiratory infection causing it. It could also be heart disease. A build up in fluid in the lungs occurs when the heart doesn't pump properly, and that can lead to hacking and vomiting. Give her vet a call today to make her an appointment. Best of luck, I hope this helps!

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