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Dog Gagging: Why & When To See A Vet
Written By Alex Olsson
Published: 05/01/2017Updated: 10/17/2024
Veterinary reviewed by Michele K.
What is gagging in dogs?
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.
Why does gagging occur in dogs?
Gagging can be caused by a variety of factors, from minor irritations to serious medical conditions.
Here are some common reasons:
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.
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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.
Remember, though, always consult your vet if you’re unsure about your dog’s gagging, especially when symptoms persist or worsen.
What should you do if your dog is gagging?
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.
How can you prevent gagging in dogs?
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.
What is the cost of treating dog gagging?
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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Gagging Questions and Advice from Veterinary Professionals
Pitbull
3.5 Years
2 found this helpful
2 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
None
Very light panting or like something caught in his throat.she just does a light panting I don't want to say coughing but gagging but very lightly and maybe a couple times an hour throughout the day
Sept. 29, 2020
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
2 Recommendations
Thank you for your question. If this is something that you're just too noticing, it may be an early sign of something going on. If it is something that has been going on for quite a while and seems normal for your dog, then it may not be anything to worry about. Without being able to examine your dog or listen to your dog's heart or lungs, it is difficult for me to say what might be going on, but if you are concerned, the best thing to do maybe to have a Veterinary and take a look at your dog. They will be able to do a good examination, see if there is a problem or what is going on, and let you know if any treatment is needed. I hope that all goes well.
Sept. 29, 2020
Was this question and answer helpful?
Bichon Frise Poodle
11 weeks
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Cough And Gagging
My puppy coughs and gags in his sleep.
We got the puppy 6 days ago
Sept. 28, 2020
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
0 Recommendations
Thank you for your question.
This may be a normal behavior for your puppy as the pup develops. If it is continuing to be a problem, it would be best to have the puppy examined by a veterinarian, as they can see what might be going on with the puppy and see if it needs treatment.
Oct. 7, 2020
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Shih Tzu
Three Years
2 found this helpful
2 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Gagging
Gagging out of nowhere. Nothing coming up but a little bit of mucus like white stuff.
Sept. 28, 2020
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
2 Recommendations
Thank you for your question.
This may be a short term problem, and hopefully he is feeling better by now. If he is continuing to have this problem, it would be best to have him seen by a veterinarian, as they can see what might be causing this problem and what treatment he might need.
Oct. 7, 2020
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Dachshund
Seven Years
1 found this helpful
1 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Gagging
Betty had two gagging fits 5 minutes apart, each time lasting about 30 seconds and resulting in no production. She seems calm now but she was trembling and afraid for a few minutes each time after it happened.
For context, the first one was right after I had to jerk her leash because she was running and abruptly turned into the street, so I think it was from that but I want to make sure that’s the most likely explanation. She has dry heaved/vomited a few times in the past because she licks her paws and essentially gets a hairball, but this sounded more like a honking noise.
Sept. 27, 2020
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
1 Recommendations
Thank you for your question.
If Betty is still having any problems with a hack or a cough, It would be best to have your pet seen by a veterinarian, as they will be able to examine them, see what might be going on, and get treatment for them.
Oct. 12, 2020
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Corgie
Two Years
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Gagging And Drawing Up
My dog is gagging and as thrown up twice I am concerned
Sept. 27, 2020
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
0 Recommendations
Thank you for your question. I apologize for the delay in my response, this venue is not set up for urgent emails.
IF he is still having this problem, Since I cannot see your pet, it would be best to have them seen by a veterinarian, as they can examine them, see what might be causing this, and get treatment if needed.
Oct. 13, 2020
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Puggle
Coconut
3 Years
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Gagging
Coughing
My dog has been gagging and coughing for over a year now. I have taken her to many different vets. They press on her trachea. They give her antibiotics. Last year she had bronchitis. I had her x ray taken again to see whether that was why she was still coughing but after it being sent to a radiologist, they said there was nothing wrong with her. Now I am sitting on the bed with her and she gags three times in a rough no cough but it didnt seem comfortable. Sometimes she poops out my hair (I have long hair) and I’m wondering if she has some hair lodged in her throat? How can the vet tell if this is the case? The x rays didn’t have any problems with her trachea or lungs so I just don’t know what is going on. Also she had her feces tested and heart worm test, both came back negative. I’m guessing it isn’t kennel cough, it’s gone on for over a year and I’m sure one of the vets would have known/ treated it.
cockapoo
DJ
13 Years
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Gagging
My 13 year old cockapoo has been gagging for the past month, at least 2-4 times a day. It almost sounds like he's going to throw up. I've also caught him eating grass quite frequently. However, both his energy and appetite are normal. He is quite active, as I take him on walks everyday and he enjoys free range at my cottage. Both blood and x-ray tests have come back normal. But I'm concerned because the gagging hasn't gone away and seems very discomforting. If anyone has any suggestions or advice on what I can do next, I'd really appreciate it!
