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My dog is coughing like a hairball is stuck in her throat. What can I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Staffordshire Terrier | Female | unspayed | 45 lbs

My dog just started coughing and acting like she has a hairball in her throat what can I do or could it be

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 26th, 2020

Hello. Hope is such a cutie! A cough may be due to inflammation, irritation, infection or something more serious like heart disease, heartworms or some primary lung disease. Hope does not look like an old dog, so a serious problem is less likely. If you have any honey, this is a great, natural way to ease a cough. Give her a teaspoon every 3-4 hours & if the cough continues & worsens into tomorrow, do have her evaluated by your veterinarian. She may benefit greatly from some medications, such as antibiotics or a cough suppressant. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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