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My bulldog has coughed for days, gagging up phlegm. Vet now?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | English Bulldog | Male | neutered | 8 years and 3 months old | 70 lbs

Our 9 year old English bulldog has had a cough for about 4 days now. He will cough to the point he gags and coughs up slobber/phlem. Elevated temp the first day but not since, no other cold symptoms but tiredness which is also normal for him. He is upto date on all shots, I do not believe it's kennel cough simply because he hasn't been exposed to any other dogs or environments where he could have contracted it. I was told by one vet to wait a week before bringing him in. Should I keep waiting?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Megan, DVM, CVA

Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian

Published on January 22nd, 2018

Poor Diesel. The type of gagging and coughing makes me worry about an upper respiratory infection. Unfortunately, they do not have to be around any type of other animals or board facilities to contract this. Since he is starting to become lethargic, I would go ahead and try to get him in to see the vet. The vet will be able to listen to his heart and lungs to ensure everything sounds okay. They will also be able to determine if this is just upper respiratory or if his heart could be involved or if this has progressed to a pneumonia. They will be able to get him started on the proper meds to make him feel better. I hope this helps!
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