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My dog has chronic hacking and belly grumbles. What's wrong?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua (Smooth Coat) | Female | spayed | 3 years and 11 months old | 7 lbs

My dog mia has been off and on , going tgrough sick spells. When i first got her she almlost died. Wouldnt eat or drink. So i syringe fed her water and pedialit mixed through out the day. Then that night shed feel better. Its been 3 years and now its getting worse . she keeps hacking when she gets excited. And her belly grumbles . ive tryex changing her food a few times but nothing helps

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1 Answer

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Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on June 16th, 2019

Mia needs to be examined by her veterinarian. Illness lasting for three years is uncommon and can indicate an ongoing condition such as an immune deficiency, tick borne disease, or a genetically inherited disease. There are blood tests which can check for abnormalities in the genes. A pathologist can check for blood-borne parasites. Antibody titers can check for tickborne disease. Until you know why this is happening, she cannot receive the appropriate treatment. Best of luck.

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