Dog Gagging: Why & When To See A Vet

Dog gagging is a common reflex caused by irritation or a blockage in the throat or respiratory system. When a dog gags, they tend to open their mouth wide and make a retching sound, without actually producing any vomit. 

It’s important to distinguish gagging from vomiting and coughing, as each has different causes and implications. Unlike vomiting, gagging doesn’t result in expulsion of stomach contents. Typically, only small amounts of mucus are produced instead. 

Understanding these differences helps you recognize when your dog’s gagging is a concern, and when it comes time to call the vet.

Dog gagging is often a symptom of something bigger at play. So why does this happen, and how do you know when it’s something serious? Let’s explore why your dog might gag from time to time, what you should do, and even how to prevent it in the future. 

Gagging can be caused by a variety of factors, from minor irritations to serious medical conditions.

Here are some common reasons:

• Throat irritation: Dust, allergens, or swallowing something incorrectly can cause a temporary bout of gagging.
  
• Respiratory infections: Conditions like kennel cough can lead to gagging, typically following a dry cough.
  
• Sinus infections and other nasal issues: Sinusitis (sinus infection) and rhinitis (nasal infection) can both cause your dog to experience postnasal drip, leading to gagging or vomiting. These infections can develop from a variety of causes, including dental problems or blockages in the nasal passages.
  
• Laryngeal paralysis: This condition, common in older dogs like Labradors, causes the muscles of the larynx to fail, leading to gagging, panting, and difficulty breathing.
  
• Tracheal collapse: Small breed dogs like Chihuahuas and Pomeranians are prone to this condition, where the trachea flattens, making it difficult to breathe. This often results in a characteristic honking cough followed by gagging.
  
• Intestinal parasites: Intestinal parasites are common in dogs, especially in puppies (they’re born with them, which is why all puppies need deworming). Roundworms, in particular, are known to migrate to the lungs, causing irritation that results in chronic coughing and gagging. If roundworms invade the lungs, they can affect the air sacs, making breathing difficult. You may also notice worms in your dog’s stool or vomit. 
  
• Heart disease: In older dogs, especially those with heart problems, gagging can be a symptom of fluid buildup in the lungs due to congestive heart failure​.
  

When to worry about your dog’s gagging

While occasional gagging in dogs can be harmless, persistent or severe episodes call for further investigation. By understanding the potential causes and taking steps to prevent and address the symptoms, you can help make sure your furry friend remains healthy and comfortable.

Remember, though, always consult your vet if you’re unsure about your dog’s gagging, especially when symptoms persist or worsen.

Is your dog experiencing frequent or prolonged gagging? It’s important to monitor the symptoms closely, regardless of how long it’s been happening. 

Here are steps to take based on different scenarios:

• Short-term gagging: If the gagging is brief and your dog otherwise appears to be healthy, the issue may be minor, such as something stuck in their throat. Keep an eye on their behavior to make sure the symptoms pass.
• Persistent gagging: If your dog keeps gagging without producing anything for a longer period of time, seek vet attention as soon as you can. Persistent gagging can signal an obstruction, infection, or even tracheal collapse.
• Gagging in older dogs: If your old dog is coughing and gagging, it may be linked to chronic conditions like heart disease or laryngeal paralysis, which require medical intervention. Make sure to contact your vet ASAP in this case. 

Diagnosing gagging in dogs

Your vet may perform a physical exam and may require additional tests to pinpoint the cause of the gagging. This could involve:

• X-rays to check for signs of tracheal collapse or foreign objects.
• Blood tests to identify infections or other underlying health issues.
• Laryngoscopy: For dogs suspected of having laryngeal paralysis, the vet may examine the larynx under sedation to assess its function.

Preventative care is essential to minimizing the risk of gagging. Here are a few practical steps to take as a pet parent to keep your dog safe:

• Vaccinations: Keep your dog up to date on vaccinations, especially for kennel cough, which is a common cause of coughing and gagging. Also, ensure you keep up to date with your dog’s deworming treatments as a preventative measure.
  
• Avoid small objects: Prevent your dog from chewing on small toys or bones that could easily get lodged in their throat.
  
• Dietary management: Dogs that gulp their food too quickly are more likely to gag. Using a slow feeder can help reduce the likelihood of gagging like something is stuck in their throat​.
  
• Weight control: For breeds prone to tracheal collapse, maintaining a healthy weight is crucial - especially since obesity can exacerbate breathing difficulties.

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Remedies for dog coughing and gagging

If your dog is coughing and gagging frequently, there are a few steps you can take to provide relief:

• Humidifiers: For dogs with throat irritation, adding moisture to the air may ease discomfort.
• Medication: Your vet may prescribe cough suppressants, antibiotics for infections, or anti-inflammatories to reduce swelling around the larynx or trachea.
• Elevated feeding: For dogs with laryngeal paralysis or tracheal collapse, raising their food and water bowls can reduce pressure on the airway​.

The cost of treatment varies depending on the severity of the condition. For simple causes like a mild infection, the costs may range from $100 to $300, covering exams and medication. 

However, in more severe cases, such as tracheal collapse that requires surgery or long-term management, expenses can rise into the thousands. Procedures like stent placement for tracheal reconstruction can cost upwards of $3,000.

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