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My senior dog is coughing badly and struggling to breathe. What to do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | unneutered

Hello! My senior dog has been coughing for years and the vet placed him on a daily dose of prednisolone, it has been working until today. Throughout today, he's been coughing with even breath and it's been hard to watch him in so much discomfort. What do I do please?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on April 12th, 2018

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Coughing and difficulty breathing can be signs of many conditions such as pneumonia, bronchitis, heart disease, among many other possibilities. I am concerned that she could be in respiratory distress. I recommend that you have Milly reevaluated by a veterinarian as soon as possible for further assessment and treatment. Likely diagnostics to be performed include thoracic radiographs and bloodwork. Treatment would be dependent on findings. Good luck and have a good night!

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Amber Da Silva, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 8th, 2017

    I'm sorry to hear that Sweety is not feeling well. He could have bronchitis, but I would also be worried about worsening of his heart disease and tracheal problems to cause him more coughing. Unfortunately, these diseases tend to progress and worsen over time, even with medical treatment. If he seems to have stabilized with the medications you have been prescribed, I would continue these. If he continues to worsen, I would strongly recommend taking him to your veterinarian as they may need to do some more testing or change the dose or types of medications he is getting.

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