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My Chihuahua has breathing problems and seems congested. What to do?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Male | unneutered | 6 years and 11 months old | 11 lbs

My Chihuahua is having breathing problems it is like he is congested. What can I give him for it?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on December 14th, 2016

Unfortunately, it is illegal for the experts at Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to prescribe any medications for an animal without seeing them in person first. That's because we can't know for sure it if safe to give to Rocky. I can recommend a home remedy, however, to see if it helps. You can try using a humidifier or bringing her into the bathroom with the door closed while you take a hot shower - the steam and humidity help to break up congestion and temporarily relieve symptoms associated with respiratory infections. If Rocky is having a lot of difficulty breathing, then the best thing to do for him is to take him into a vet immediately. Respiratory difficulties can quickly go downhill, leading to distress, and he should be seen by a vet to prevent that from happening.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Davis
Veterinarian
Published on March 4th, 2018
There is nothing I recommend giving him until you know the reason for the breathing trouble. This could be a serious medical problem with his heart or lungs. I recommend a veterinary exam and workup to get a diagnosis then they can prescribe the proper treatment. With medication he should improve. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Boogey.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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I'm sorry that Pali has a cold! Unfortunately, by law the experts at Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach cannot recommend any specific medications, even over-the-counter ones, for any pet without an exam. If she seems congested or has a cough, you could try bringing her into the bathroom with you while you take a hot shower - the steam and humidity will often help to break up congestion and provide some temporary relief for minor respiratory infections. If this doesn't help, or if her symptoms are severe, it would be best to take Pali to the vet for an exam to find out if she does have a cold, or something more serious. Your vet can prescribe an antibiotic or other medication for her if needed, depending on what is found.

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