Case Study: Coughing in Dogs; More Than "Just a Cough"

Patient:

Buddy is a 9 year old, male neutered, chihuahua dog.

Presenting Complaint:

The owner reports a persistent cough, worsening at night and after activity. 

Possible Causes of Coughing in Dogs

Coughing can come from many different systems in the body, including the heart,lungs,and airways. Common causes include:

• Kennel cough (infectious tracheobronchitis) – Often dry, honking cough, especially after boarding, grooming, or a visit to the dog park.
• Tracheal collapse – Common in small breeds; worsens with excitement or pulling on a leash. 
• Allergies or asthma-like disease – Seasonal or environmental triggers.
• Pneumonia – Bacterial, viral, or aspiration related. 
• Lung disease or tumors – Especially in senior pets.
• Heartworm disease – Can cause coughing, exercise intolerance.
• Foreign material – Grass seeds, foxtails, or debris.
• Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) – One of the most important and commonly missed causes

Identifying The Cause: Congestive Heart Failure

In Buddy's case, diagnostics revealed congestive heart failure. When the heart cannot pump efficiently, fluid begins to back up into the lungs. This fluid causes coughing, increased breathing rate, and labored breathing. Many owners mistake this cough for allergies or a "cold". 

Red flags that suggest heart disease include:

• Coughing at night or while resting
• Exercise intolerance
• Rapid or labored breathing
• Lethargy 
• Fainting or weakness
• Belly or chest fluid buildup
• Decreased appetite

CHF is progressive but manageable hen caught early with proper medication and monitoring. 

Diagnostics Performed

To determine the cause of Buddy's cough, the following were recommended:

• Physical exam (heart murmur, lung sounds)
• Chest X-rays
• Bloodwork (including cardiac markers if indicated)
• Blood Pressure testing
• Heartworm testing

Treatment and Outcome

Buddy was started on:

• Heart medications to support heart function
• Diuretics (water pills) to remove excess fluid from the lungs
• Activity modification and monitoring at home

With treatment, his coughing significantly improved and his quality of life increased. 

Important Safety Note: Do NOT Give Human Cough Medicine

Never give your dog over the counter human cough or cold medications.

Many contain ingredients such as:

• Xylitol
• Dextromethorphan
• Pseudoephedrine
• Acetaminophen

These can be toxic or fatal to dogs and may delay the diagnoses of a serious condition like heart failure. 

Coughing is one of the most common reasons dogs are brought to the veterinarian. While som ecauses are mild and temporary, others are serious and even life threatening. A cough should never be ignored, especially in older dogs. A cough is a symptom, not a diagnosis. While it may be something mild, it can also be a sign of a serious disease, especially heart disease. If your dog is coughing do not wait it out and do not self medicate, call your veterinarian today and schedule an appointment. Early intervention can be life saving.