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My dog is hacking white foam and phlegm. When should I worry?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 2 years and 8 months old | 50 lbs

My 2.5 yr old lab mix. Hacking up white foam and flem for past 3 hrs. Demeanor is tired, but not distressed. Not sure if this is just GI upset or something to go to ER for?

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 26th, 2019

Hello. Is the hacking constant, accompanied by any retching? This is not good if she is & probably needs to see a vet tonight. If not, are her gums a nice bubble gum pink? This is a good sign. Will she take a little food or water? This too is a good sign. Weigh the signs & see if this might just be some kind of tracheal irritation. Sometimes a teaspoon of honey every couple of hours can be very soothing. See how she does over the next hour or so & if you are at all concerned, it is always best to be safe than sorry, but if she seems pretty comfortable you can see how the honey works for her. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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