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Is my Maltese mix coughing? Could it be kennel cough or heart disease?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Maltese | Female | unspayed | 6 years and 7 months old | 4 lbs

What are symptoms of kennel cough or heart disease in a Maltese mix? How do I recognise them? Asking because parents don't believe that it could be dangerous for her life.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on January 5th, 2020

With kennel cough, sudden onset of a severe cough is typically seen, which may be productive or non-productive. A productive cough sounds wet and produces mucus, while a non-productive cough is dry and does not produce any mucus. This cough can sound like a honk. Gagging, retching, sneezing, and nasal discharge may also be seen. When a dog with kennel cough has their throat palpated, the dog can be induced to cough. The cough can also be exacerbated by exercise, excitement, or pressure on the neck from their collar. With heart disease, you see a cough that is produced after or during exercise, as well as exercise intolerance. A dog cannot seem to play like they used to in the past. This cough will progress and get worse over time, happening when they are resting as well. You can see episodes of syncope, when a dog suddenly faints.

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