My puppy has heavy breathing, coughing, and gagging. Should I worry?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

• Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

  Veterinarian

  Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Ebony!
  
  I am glad that Ebony is eating and drinking. I am assuming the X-rays of her lungs were recent? if not, then I recommend she be examined by a vet and repeat Chest X-rays taken. Any indiction of heavy breathing should be considered an emergency.
  
  Causes of coughing and gagging are: pneumonia, kennel cough, collapsing trachea, pleural effusion, diaphragmatic hernia, esophageal foreign body, esophageal irritation.
  
  Since Ebony is so little she would benefit by acting sooner than later to prevent a fever and anorexia. Your Vet may want to start her on antibiotics.
  
  I hope this helps and I wish Ebony a speedy recovery!

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

• Answered By Dr Stafford, BVetMed, MRCVS

  Veterinarian

  Published on October 14th, 2017

  Sometimes changes in depth of breath can be normal, especially when sleeping.
  However it can also be a sign of illness. In extreme cases heavy breathing is an emergency as the animal may be struggling for oxygen. This does not appear to be the case here though.
  Considering that her colour is good I would monitor her for now. If she starts to get distressed or unresponsive go straight to the vet. If she is normal in the morning I would be vigilant but otherwise do nothing. If she is not back to normal I would take her in for an examination. The heavy breathing could be an indication of pain or trouble getting air into the lungs. The vet can check her all over and listen for signs of an infection etc cetera.
  
  Try not to worry too much for now. Keep her calm and relaxed and monitor the situation. Be prepared to go to the vet quickly if the situation deteriorates, but I think it is unlikely that you will have to.

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful