Dog coughing.

Dr. Marie replied:

Ah, sorry to hear that you are going through this. Moving is stressful to start with and having a potentially sick dog doesn't help.

While I can't say for sure without seeing Gracie, what you have described really sounds like she has picked up kennel cough. Dogs with kennel cough often have a cough that sounds like something is stuck in their throat. (I often have a hard time convincing owners that there really isn't something stuck in their dog's throat.)

What you have described with the white, milky "vomit" is typical as well. Sometimes dogs can cough so much that they cough out phlegm, or they can cough to the point of vomiting.

If she did pick up kennel cough she got it from virus particles in the air. While it is most common for dogs to get it when they are in a kennel, really any dog can get it.

The good news is that it is usually more annoying than life threatening. It usually goes away on its own within a few days, but sometimes takes a couple of weeks.

When dogs have kennel cough they are very irritated in their trachea (windpipe). This is likely why there seems to be a connection between pulling the leash and her coughing. The leash will irritate the trachea.

There really isn't anything over the counter you can do for the cough. If it is really severe you can see a vet tomorrow for a prescription of cough suppressant. If you are seeing a green or yellow discharge from her nose or eyes then she may need antibiotics, but most dogs with kennel cough don't need antibiotics.


From what you have described it seems unlikely that she needs an emergency visit tonight. However, if she is really uncomfortable, then it may be necessary.

Please keep in mind that I can't diagnose your dog over the internet, so if she seems like she is really unwell then a vet visit is the best idea.

I hope she feels better soon!

Unfortunately I will be heading offline now. (Your question came in just as I was turning off my online status, so I could go to bed!) If you wish to reply, I will get back to you in the morning.

Dr. Marie.



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