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Why does my dog hack and cough after running or playing with others?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Female | spayed | 1 year and 2 months old | 50 lbs

For about a month or so, whenever my one year old runs around or is roughhousing with other dogs she will hack/cough.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Angel Alvarado, LVT

Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on April 7th, 2019

Since it has been several weeks with no improvement, Mocha should be physically examined by your veterinarian for a complete workup. Chest x-rays should be done to assess the lungs and heart. If indicated, an echocardiogram can be done to further assess cardiac architecture and function. Blood and fecal samples can be submitted to test for parasites. A sputum sample can also be submitted to test for infection (bacterial or fungal).
Any of these conditions can be the underlying cause for the symptoms described. Any treatment will depend on the diagnosis.
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