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Why does my puppy cough when her throat is touched? Is it Bordetella?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Multi-Colored Standard Poodle | Female | unspayed | 5 months and 5 days old | 27 lbs

My puppy has a (gagging?) cough. It's not all the time, & the only thing I notice that causes it is this: if, while she lays her head on my arm (or anything), the front of her throat also touches my arm, it triggers this kind of cough. But, Sometimes it seems nothing came into contact with her throat. It doesn't have to be hard pressure. Just barely touching causes it. It's been happening for as long as I can remember. I've had her since birth. Could it be that she needs the bordetella vax?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on April 4th, 2019

Olive should have the Bordetella vaccine regardless because it is a very common pathogen that dogs come in contact with. Additionally pets who have the Bordetella vaccine tend to not get as sick as pets who do not have it. This sounds very consistent and that is unusual and a young dog. I recommend to have this examined by the veterinarian. It is possible there is some sort of infection or allergic component. Best of luck and please feel free to post any additional questions.

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