My dog has a raspy cough. Is it serious? Should I see a vet?

Hello! Excellent job going ahead and scheduling a vet visit. While from what you describe does not sound urgent there are diseases that still require evaluation by a veterinarian and possibly diagnostics/treatment. One example is Kennel Cough. These dogs usually have a history of being around a lot of other dogs (e.g. dog parks, boarding facilities) and usually causes a dry, hacking cough. But other possible things like bronchitis, collapsing trachea, pneumonia, or heart issues require x-ray to diagnose. It sounds as though your pets attitude is good, he has good energy and is eating and drinking well! These are all good signs and reasons that I would not necessarily run to the emergency room. However, if you feel as though he is declining in any way between now and your appointment you should absolutely take him in sooner rather than later. Hopefully this information is helpful and your pet gets better soon!

Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Trigo is adorable! It is concerning that Trigo has lost his appetite. The coughing and sneezing, especially if accompanied by nasal discharge can be caused by an upper respiratory infection or even pneumonia. These conditions require a veterinary exam and potentially bloodwork and x-rays to diagnose and treat. I recommend having Trigo seen by a vet as soon as possible. He should be seen immediately if he is unresponsive or you believe he is having trouble breathing. I hope all is well!

It sounds like an upper respiratory infection. I would recommend having Riggs evaluated by a vet since he is so young. Sometimes these infections can be bacterial and quickly wiped out with antibiotics. Others could develop into coughing or pneumonia.

Poor guy. Coughing in pets should always be addressed by your vet, especially if it seems to be interferring with Opie's quality of life. He seems to be lethargic if he can't keep his eyes open. I wonder if the coughing is keeping him up at night and so he can't get enough rest? It is best to get this treated soon. A short course of antibiotics will likely be prescribed. I hope that Opie feels better soon! Best wishes and take care. : )

This could be an upper respiratory infection such as kennel cough , but could also be a sign of heart disease, especially if Chico is an older dog. Another very likely possibility is that Chico has a collapsed trachea. You will need to take Chico to your vet for an exam and x-rays (which will rule out collapsed trachea and lung edema caused by congestive heart failure). Your vet;s exam will also detect any problems with the heart, that may be causing the cough. Please cschedule an appointment with your vet soon.

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/bacterial 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.

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Ralphie. Poor boy. Yes, this could be due to mild throat irritation. Give him plenty of water, and try using a humidifier or bringing her into the bathroom with the door closed while you take a hot shower - the steam and humidity may help to soothe his throat. I don't think you need to take him back into a vet now, I'd just keep an eye on him. I hope this helps!