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What causes a worsening dry cough in an 11-year-old Chihuahua?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Male | neutered | 11 years and 1 month old | 7 lbs

My 11 year old Chihuahua dog has a dry cough. He had it for a while but now its recently gotten worse. Before he would cough here

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on July 27th, 2020

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Dino. Poor boy. In a dog his age, this could be caused by something serious like heart disease. Heart disease can be common in senior dogs. I'd have him seen by a vet for this cough, and recommend getting a physical exam, a geriatric blood panel, urinalysis, and possibly chest x-ray done. If he does have heart disease, it cannot be cured but the symptoms can be managed with medication. Give his vet a call to make him an appointment. I hope this helps!

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 10th, 2020

    In a dog Lexi's age, I'd be concerned that her cough could be due to something serious like heart disease. Heart disease is common in older dogs. I'd have her seen by a vet in the morning. The vet can diagnose what is causing the coughing. If she does have heart disease, medication can prescribed to help with her symptoms but it cannot be cured.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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