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Why is my dog clearing throat, yawning, licking lips, and lethargic?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Female | spayed | 1 year and 4 months old | 48 lbs

In the last day our dog has been making a noise like she is trying to clear her throat. Throught the night she was yawning alot and licking her lips like she had cotton mouth. This morning she's been more lethargic than usual. I checked inside her nose, but not sure what to be looking for (attached photos below)

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1 Answer

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Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

Veterinary Technician

Published on December 30th, 2019

Those symptoms could indicate issues such as stress, nausea/GI upset, or even something stuck in the throat or mouth. Since items can get lodged far enough back to not be seen just by looking in the nose or mouth, it would be best to bring Kona into your vet for an exam. You vet can take a closer look (with sedation as needed) to see if there is an apparent cause.

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