Why is my senior dog coughing, hacking, and struggling to breathe?

Question

I have a jack russel about 12 years old and lately shes been coughing really bad..Shell be laying down coughing and sounds like she has trouble breathing...its a hacking type of cough.. she is a little overweight i dont know if that may be a reason why shes acting like that...she sounds like she has a breathing problem. Pet's info: Dog | Jack Russell Terrier | Female | unspayed

Debi Matlack · Accepted Answer

The weight doesn't help, but that kind of coughing makes me worry about her developing congestive heart failure. Respiratory infection and pneumonia, among other things can cause coughing as well. I strongly suggest getting her in to see your vet as soon as possible. If she is having congestion due to a heart problem medication can make her much more comfortable. Your vet will do an exam, labwork and likely x-rays. Based on these results your vet will be better able to tell you what is going on and how best to treat it.

Why is my senior dog coughing, hacking, and struggling to breathe?

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