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Is my old dog's coughing and heavy breathing a sign of heart issues?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Wire Fox Terrier | Male | neutered | | 16 lbs

My dog, Miller is about 13 years old. Lately he coughs often as if clearing his thought. It's hot here, but in air conditioning he is breathing heavily. His heart beat (TO AN AMATEUR LIKE ME) seems high but not labored. I'm worried that is something old dog???

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1 Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on June 24th, 2022

In a dog Miller's age, this cough and heavy breathing could be due to something serious like heart disease. Unfortunately, heart disease is common in old dogs, and while it cannot be cured, its symptoms can be managed with medication. I think it's really important that he sees a vet as soon as possible, so I would recommend taking him into see his vet this weekend. I hope this helps.

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