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Why does my dog with liver issues have a terrible, persistent cough?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 13 years and 2 months old | 50 lbs

Our dog has been treated for liver issues. He currently is taking Hepato and Ursodiol. Since being sick, he has had a terrible sounding cough. We are not sure of its connection to his liver condition, but we are concerned that it doesn't get any better. We would appreciate any suggestions.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Tomasz Wnuk

Veterinarian

Published on April 27th, 2021

Hello and thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. I don't think that the cough is related to the liver problems or the medications Scoundrel is taking at present. I suspect the cough is related to airways infection (kennel cough, bronchitis etc) but it also may be caused by heart problems. Please,take Scoundrel back to your vets as he will need full clinical examination and potentially further investigation (for example an x-ray) to make the diagnosis and to start treatment for him.

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