Any disease that results in vomiting can cause dry heaving if the patient's stomach is empty, but some disorders that only rarely cause vomiting are known to frequently cause gagging, retching, and heaving.
Foreign Object in the Throat
Foreign objects that get caught in the throat don’t always obstruct the entire airway and can induce gagging and dry heaving. If you suspect that your pet has an object caught in their throat, they should be taken to a veterinarian right away. These dogs may salivate profusely and find it tricky to eat their food.
Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus
This potentially fatal disorder is more commonly known by the name of
bloat. This condition is caused when food and gases are trapped in the stomach, causing it to expand. Eventually, this expansion can lead to the rotation of the stomach which cuts off the blood supply to the organs. Canines that are suffering from bloat may also have an
increased heart rate,
pale gums, and may have difficulty moving or standing.
Kennel Cough
Kennel cough is a contagious upper respiratory illness that is characterized by a dry, hacking cough and
nasal discharge. In moderate to severe cases, dry heaving is a frequent sign of the infection. Dogs with kennel cough should be quarantined from other canines to prevent the spread of this disease.
Tonsillitis or Pharyngitis
Tonsillitis is the swelling of the tonsils, located far back in the throat. When these glands get swollen, they can interfere with the dogs breathing as well as triggering the gag reflex, leading to dry heaves.
Tumor Partially Obstructing the Throat
Any growth, such as a polyp or cancer, that is located in the throat area may have the effect of interfering with both breathing and eating. Growths in this area of the body will need to be removed or medically treated before the dry heaving behavior can be eliminated.