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Are my Chihuahuas sick? They're coughing, sneezing, and have red ears.

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Female | spayed

Bacterial infection? I posted this question I believe two days ago: " I have two Chihuahuas. One started to cough a lot. Then within a day or two they were both coughing, runny noses, sneezy. Somewhat lethargic but not much at all. Genesis seems more hot than usual. Home dogs very little interaction with any other dogs have a few as neighbors." Including response. One of them has red on the ears now, is this a sure sign of infection?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on March 2nd, 2019

These signs are likely to have an infective origin. Viral and bacterial causes are most likely. In my opinion a clinical examination at your local veterinarian is essential to confirm these clinical suspicions and treat appropriately. Antibiotics may be needed. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further. If this answer was helpful please let us know, this will be used to improve our service!

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Shaneez Wallani, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 1st, 2019

    It's possible they may have picked up a viral or bacterial infection, potentially when out for a walk, or around other pets at the pet store/ groomer, etc. If you notice them having difficulty breathing, or if they have blue gums, exercise intolerance, a productive cough, lethargy, decreased appetite, or collapse, please get them to a vet immediately , as it could mean there is something more serious going on with them that needs to be addressed immediately. If they are acting normally otherwise and are just sniffling/ sneezing, you can try just monitoring them for a little while to see if it clears up on its own as most minor infections do.

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