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Why is my senior Pomeranian yelping, coughing, and acting withdrawn?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Pomeranian | Male | unneutered | 8 lbs

We have a 15 yr old Pomeranian. He has been acting out of his norm. He yelped in pain yesterday when my sister touched around his mouth. He has lost a lot of his teeth and only get soft food. He previously has had seizures. Bear also is coughing/hacking. He is very withdrawn in activity but will stay close by one of us. Bear has not been having a normal bowel moment it's loose and unformed and going several times. I would appreciate the advice of whats going on with him.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Davis

Veterinarian

Published on October 8th, 2017

Bear may have an infected tooth that is painful, or there could be a growth in or around his mouth that is causing the pain. It could also be from his ear or neck pain. As he's an older dog I recommend a veterinary exam soon. He can get a heart, lung or organ problem from a dental infection, and I don't want him to continue having pain. They will examine his mouth and give pain medication and antibiotics if needed. They may also need to remove some teeth and check his heart and do a blood panel to make sure his organs are functioning normally. I'm not as concerned about the stool as this may be the result of the infection or pain. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Bear.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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