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Why is my older dog coughing and wheezing like he's choking?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | 50 lbs

Hello here. My grandmother’s mature dog seems to be choking. He appears to be fine but will randomally cough/wheeze as if he has something stuck in his throat. Any advice to help him will be appreciated. We lack the appropriate funds to take him to the Vet.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Stephanie Echols, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 25th, 2017

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Without seeing Tiger it is hard to say why he is coughing. Things I would rule out would be heartworm disease, collapsing trachea, heart disease, laryngeal paralysis, tracheobronchitis (kennel cough), parasites, chronic bronchitis, or cancer. Unfortunately, none of these things can be diagnosed and treated without testing- exam, blood work and xrays. Since cost is a concern, I would continue to monitor his quality of life. If he is eating, drinking, and not losing weight his quality of life is good. If he stops eating or drinking, starts vomiting, can't sleep, or is losing weight, his quality of life is poor. I am sorry I cannot give you more help. You could contact your vet for payment options and I would discuss CareCredit.com to get him checked out soon. Good luck and kisses to Tiger!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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