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My senior dog is coughing but seems fine. When should I see a vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

My sister has a jack Russell dachshund mix hes about 9yrs old and hes been coughing for a while my sister doesn't want to take it to the vet because she is scared they will tell her to put him down, but hes eating fine and walking around fine.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on January 31st, 2019

Cough can be caused by an infection, heart problem or lung condition, it is important to first know the cause before treating it as treatment is different from condition to another. The most common disease causing cough is a viral/bacterial infection called Kennel cough, this disease usually resolves without treatment within a couple weeks but if the cough is too severe it is recommended to go to the vet in order to get cough medicine and antibiotics.

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1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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    Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 6th, 2018

    Cough can be caused by an infection, heart problem or lung condition, it is important to first know the cause before treating it as treatment is different from condition to another. The most common disease causing cough is a viral infection called Kennel cough, this disease usually resolves without treatment within a couple weeks but if the cough is too severe it is recommended to go to the vet in order to get cough medicine and antibiotics.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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