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My 14-year-old dog is coughing and gagging. What could be wrong?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 14 years and 7 months old | 19 lbs

Hello, My dog (Honey) is 14 years old and she is an indoor dog. My princes, started coughing and sounds like she is going to vomit but doesn't. She has actually vomited twice in the week, so I started giving her biled chicken and some blend rice, in case it was reflux but last night about every hour she would have that cough. We didn't sleep. What else can I do? and what is wrong? Amy C Thank you

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 11th, 2020

Hello. Coughing & gagging is pretty indicative of tracheobronchitis, or kennel cough, but in a 14 year old dog, I would be concerned about heartworm disease, heart failure, lung disease, tracheal collapse or bronchitis. So, there are many things that can cause a cough such as this. Only a good examination by your veterinarian, some blood tests & possibly a chest x-ray may be needed to fully diagnose Honey. Once this is done, the appropriate medications & treatments can be started to hopefully make her well. Good luck & thanks for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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