It’s unsettling to hear your dog hacking, gagging, or retching like there’s something lodged in their throat. If you’ve found yourself asking, “Why is my dog coughing like something is stuck in his throat?”, you’re in the right place. This sound can mimic choking, but the reasons behind it vary widely, from minor irritations to more serious underlying conditions. Below, we’ll explore the most common reasons dogs cough like something’s stuck, why this symptom shouldn’t be ignored, and what steps to take next. For expert care in Miami, FL, call Country Club Animal Hospital at (305) 663-3300 or book an appointment online today.
What It Sounds Like When a Dog Coughs Like Something Is Stuck
When pet owners describe this type of cough, they often mention sounds like choking, gagging, honking, or even vomiting. Unlike a dry or productive cough, this version often includes throat-clearing gestures, retching motions, and sudden bursts of effort that look alarming. Sometimes, the dog may pause mid-play or after exercise and begin hacking with no obvious cause. These episodes can come and go quickly or linger throughout the day. While some causes are mild, others signal that veterinary attention is necessary. The key is paying attention to how often the coughing occurs, what triggers it, and whether it comes with other signs of illness.
What Causes That “Something is Stuck” Cough?
Multiple issues can make a dog cough like there’s something lodged in their throat. While they may sound similar, the causes range from environmental irritants to chronic respiratory conditions. Below are some of the most likely reasons behind this concerning symptom.
Kennel Cough
Kennel cough, or canine infectious tracheobronchitis, is a highly contagious upper respiratory infection that’s especially common in dogs exposed to group settings like daycares, boarding facilities, or dog parks. It often causes a dry, honking cough that sounds like your dog is trying to clear their throat. While it can resolve on its own in mild cases, it may require veterinary attention, especially if your dog seems lethargic, has nasal discharge, or loses interest in eating. Puppies, seniors, and dogs with pre-existing health conditions are at higher risk for complications.
Tracheal Collapse
If you’re wondering, “Why is my dog coughing like something is stuck in his throat?” and you have a small breed dog, tracheal collapse could be the cause. This condition, most common in Yorkies, Pomeranians, Chihuahuas, and other toy breeds, happens when the tracheal rings weaken and flatten, making it harder for air to move through the airway. The result is a harsh, goose-like honking cough that worsens with excitement, pressure on the neck, or warm weather. Tracheal collapse requires a veterinary diagnosis and ongoing management, including weight control, harness use, and sometimes medication.
Throat Irritation from Foreign Objects
Dogs explore the world with their mouths, and occasionally, a blade of grass, small stick, or toy fragment can become lodged in the back of the throat. This can cause sudden, intense coughing that mimics choking. If your dog starts coughing abruptly after chewing on something outside or playing with a toy, this could be the cause. Never attempt to remove anything yourself, as it could push the object deeper. Instead, call your veterinarian immediately. Country Club Animal Hospital can examine your dog safely and determine if a foreign object is present.
Allergies and Environmental Irritants
Just like people, dogs can develop allergies to pollen, dust, smoke, mold, or cleaning products. In these cases, coughing is the body’s attempt to clear the irritant. Dogs with allergies may also sneeze, have itchy skin, or suffer from watery eyes and nasal discharge. If your dog’s coughing episodes coincide with seasonal changes, increased time outdoors, or use of certain products in the home, allergies could be a factor. Your veterinarian can help rule out other conditions and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.
Heart Disease
While less common than other causes, heart disease can also lead to coughing that sounds like something is stuck in the throat. When the heart enlarges or struggles to pump efficiently, fluid can build up in the lungs, leading to a persistent, wet-sounding cough which is often worse at night or after exercise. If your dog is older or a breed predisposed to heart issues (like Cavaliers, Boxers, or Dobermans), and the coughing is accompanied by fatigue or labored breathing, it’s time to call your vet. Early detection is important to improve quality of life.
Other Symptoms to Watch Alongside Coughing
If you’re asking, “Why is my dog coughing like something is stuck in his throat?” it helps to track any other signs that appear alongside the coughing. These details can guide your veterinarian in narrowing down the cause.
Behavior Changes
Is your dog less playful than usual? Are they eating less or avoiding normal activities? Subtle behavior shifts can point to a deeper health concern. Even a slight drop in energy or changes in sleep patterns may indicate discomfort.
Breathing Patterns
Normal breathing should be smooth and quiet. If your dog is breathing faster than normal, struggling to catch their breath, or wheezing, it’s time to seek veterinary attention. Labored breathing paired with a persistent cough warrants prompt evaluation.
Nasal or Eye Discharge
Coughing combined with clear or cloudy discharge from the nose or eyes may point to a respiratory infection. If the discharge changes color or your dog’s eyes look inflamed, that information helps your veterinarian determine the best course of action.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Have It Checked Out
Some pet owners hesitate to visit the vet for coughing if the symptoms seem mild or occasional. However, because so many different issues can trigger coughing, it’s always best to have it evaluated especially if it lasts more than a day or two. Even a relatively minor condition like kennel cough can worsen or spread without treatment. At Country Club Animal Hospital in Miami, we take symptoms like these seriously. Our team has the tools and experience to pinpoint what’s behind your dog’s cough and guide you through the next steps. From diagnostic imaging to in-house testing, we can rule out more serious causes quickly and get your dog the care they need.
What to Expect During a Veterinary Visit
If you find yourself asking, “Why is my dog coughing like something is stuck in his throat?” and you bring them to our clinic, here’s what might happen. First, we’ll ask questions about when the coughing started, how often it occurs, and whether it’s triggered by activity, food, or rest. These details help narrow down possible causes.
Your veterinarian may perform a physical exam to check for signs of respiratory distress, heart abnormalities, or discomfort in the throat or chest. Depending on the findings, we may recommend X-rays, a tracheal wash, or bloodwork to get a clearer picture. The sooner we evaluate your pet, the sooner we can begin supportive care.
Call Us If You’re Hearing That Honking, Hacking Sound
If your dog is coughing like something’s stuck in their throat, don’t wait it out. A cough like this is more than just a nuisance. It’s your dog’s way of telling you something isn’t right. Whether it’s a minor irritation or a more complex health issue, our veterinary team is here to help. Country Club Animal Hospital in Miami, FL offers thorough, compassionate care for dogs dealing with coughing, gagging, and other respiratory symptoms. Call us today at (305) 663-3300 or book an appointment online to schedule an exam. Let’s find out what’s behind that cough so your dog can breathe easier and feel better fast.