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My dog is coughing and spitting up white fluid. What's wrong?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered | 1 year and 11 months old | 75 lbs

Hank has been coughing for about 16 hours on and off as of Oct 22, 2017 at 0750. He coughs as though something is in his throat and has managed to get some white fluid out. Hank has a coughing spurt for about ten minutes every hour. His breathing seems normal. His energy levels and behavior are also normal. He has been eating and drinking at his normal pace.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on October 22nd, 2017

Cough can be caused by an infection, heart problem or lung condition, it is important to first know the cause before treating it as treatment is different from condition to another.

The most common disease causing cough is a viral infection called Kennel cough, this disease usually resolves without treatment within a couple weeks but if the cough is too severe it is recommended to go to the vet in order to get cough medicine and antibiotics.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Published on July 9th, 2017
Cough can be caused by an infection, heart problem or lung condition, it is important to first know the cause before treating it as treatment is different from condition to another. The most common disease causing cough is a viral infection called Kennel cough, this disease usually resolves without treatment within a couple weeks but if the cough is too severe it is recommended to go to the vet in order to get cough medicine and antibiotics.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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