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Why is my old dog coughing, breathing hard, and stomach throbbing?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Havanese | Male | neutered | 16 years old | 12 lbs

My dog is 16, hes a Havanese Poodle. Hes having some slight difficulty breathing and every once in a while has these big cough attacks. I've noticed over the last week or so hos stomach is constantly pulsating back and forth. Any idea what that could be?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on April 27th, 2019

Poor Bentley! Given his age, I would be concerned there could be something seriously wrong causing the symptoms such as heart disease. Heart disease can be common in senior dogs. I would take him into a vet today for a health check. If he does have heart disease, it cannot be cured but the symptoms can be medically managed. Best of luck.
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