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My dog coughs and hacks only after playing with another dog. Why?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Male | 15 lbs

I’m curious as to why my dog coughs or hacks after playing with our other dog, he seems to get really excited while play wrestling with the other dog we have, almost every time he usually coughs and hacks after wrestling with him. This is the only time he does it, if he is running or exercising outside he does not do this.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 26th, 2019

It is possible he has a sensitive trachea or a condition called tracheal collapse, which is when the trachea briefly narrows in diameter when the pet gets excited or plays. If he is otherwise doing well, then you can monitor him for now for any progressive symptoms. If he starts coughing throughout the day, then a vet visit is needed for further evaluation and x-rays to confirm this suspected diagnosis and to then start treatment. Otherwise he should be fine if he is only doing this after playing with the other dog. Just keep him play time to a moderate level (20-30 mins) to avoid excessive coughing. I hope that Gizmo does well here moving forward. Best wishes and take care!

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5Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

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    Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 14th, 2018

    If this happened suddenly and Ralph has contact with other dogs, then this could be kennel cough. One other possibility with a small dog is collapsing trachea. This would be more suspicious if the cough has been going on for a while now. A vet will be able to differentiate the possible causes more. It's not an emergency, but best if he is seen by a veterinarian in the next couple of days. I hope that helps and Ralph gets better soon.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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