Old Dog Coughing and Gagging at Night: Causes and What You Can Do

It can be distressing to hear your old dog coughing and gagging, especially when it seems to happen more frequently at night. This symptom, while common in senior dogs, isn’t something to ignore. Understanding the underlying causes and knowing what steps to take can help you provide the best care for your furry friend and ensure they can get a good night’s rest. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind nocturnal coughing and gagging in older dogs and guide you through possible solutions.

Why is My Old Dog Coughing and Gagging at Night?

Nighttime coughing and gagging in senior dogs can stem from various underlying issues. It’s not just a simple tickle in their throat, and it’s important to distinguish it from a reverse sneeze, which sounds different and is usually more of a snorting sound. Here are some common culprits that may be causing your dog’s nighttime discomfort:

• Canine Cough (Kennel Cough): This is an infectious respiratory disease that can cause a persistent, hacking cough that worsens at night. Although more common in younger dogs, older dogs with weaker immune systems can still contract it.
• Heart Problems: As dogs age, their heart can weaken, leading to conditions like congestive heart failure. This can cause fluid to build up in the lungs, resulting in a wet, soft cough, particularly at night when your dog is lying down. For a deeper understanding, you may want to explore signs of congestive heart failure in dogs.
• Tracheal Collapse: The trachea, or windpipe, is supported by cartilage rings. In some older dogs, these rings can weaken, causing the trachea to flatten, particularly when excited or at rest, leading to a characteristic honking cough and gagging.
• Lung Disease: Conditions like chronic bronchitis or pneumonia can cause inflammation and irritation of the airways, resulting in coughing and gagging, which may be more pronounced at night.
• Allergies: Just like humans, dogs can suffer from allergies. Environmental allergens, like pollen and dust mites, can cause coughing, especially in the evenings and when the dog is resting on bedding that may contain allergens.
• Laryngeal Paralysis: This condition occurs when the larynx (voice box) doesn’t open properly, causing breathing difficulties and a harsh, raspy cough, which can be worse at night.
• Foreign Body: Sometimes, a small object stuck in the throat can cause a persistent cough and gagging. This is less likely to be a persistent nighttime issue, but always a possibility.

Identifying the Type of Cough: What Does it Mean?

Understanding the nature of your dog’s cough can help your veterinarian diagnose the cause effectively. Here’s how you can distinguish different types of coughs:

• A Dry, Hacking Cough: This often sounds like a goose honk and can indicate tracheal collapse or kennel cough.
• A Wet, Soft Cough: A cough that sounds moist and may be accompanied by fluid is commonly a sign of heart-related issues or fluid accumulation in the lungs. This is sometimes confused with the signs of congestive heart failure in dogs.
• A Persistent Cough Followed by Gagging: This can point to a foreign body, reverse sneezing, or conditions that irritate the throat.
• A Cough Accompanied by Wheezing: This may indicate a lung condition, such as asthma or bronchitis.

What to Do When Your Old Dog is Coughing and Gagging at Night?

If your senior dog is experiencing coughing and gagging at night, here’s a step-by-step approach to ensure they receive the care they need:

1. Record the Symptoms: Note down the frequency, timing, and type of cough. Are they gagging or retching? Is there any phlegm? How long does the coughing fit last? This information will help your vet diagnose the issue.
2. Consult Your Vet: Don’t delay in scheduling a vet appointment. A proper diagnosis is key to effective treatment. They will perform a thorough examination, and may recommend further tests, such as x-rays, blood work, or heart monitoring.
3. Make Sure Your Dog Has Water Available: Keeping your pet hydrated is crucial. Sometimes a dry throat will trigger a cough, so it’s important to make sure they have access to fresh, clean water.
4. Adjust Their Sleeping Environment: Keep your dog’s sleeping area clean and allergen-free. Use air purifiers and hypoallergenic bedding if allergies are suspected. Consider raising their food and water bowls to help with breathing, especially if they are experiencing difficulty.
5. Avoid Irritants: Keep your home free from smoke, strong fragrances, and other potential irritants.

Expert Insight

“As veterinarians, we often see older dogs with nocturnal coughs, and the key is not to ignore it. Careful observation of the cough, including its sound and timing, is crucial for diagnosis,” explains Dr. Eleanor Vance, DVM, a leading expert in geriatric canine health. “Remember, what seems minor at home can be significant inside, so seeking professional advice early on is always the best course of action.”

Diagnosing the Cause of Your Dog’s Cough

The diagnostic process for coughing and gagging in older dogs may include several tests:

• Physical Exam: Your vet will check for signs of respiratory distress, listen to the heart and lungs, and assess your dog’s overall health.
• Chest X-rays: These can reveal lung issues, heart enlargement, or tracheal collapse.
• Blood Tests: Blood work can help identify infections or organ dysfunction.
• Heart Monitoring (ECG): This is used to evaluate heart rhythm and detect abnormalities.
• Tracheal Wash: If an infection is suspected, a sample of fluid from the trachea can be analyzed.

Treatment Options for Nighttime Coughing and Gagging

The treatment will depend on the underlying cause of the coughing and gagging:

• Infections: Antibiotics or antifungal medications may be prescribed to clear up infections.
• Heart Problems: Medications to control fluid buildup, improve heart function, or address high blood pressure are often part of the treatment plan. In severe cases of signs of congestive heart failure in dogs, oxygen therapy may be needed.
• Tracheal Collapse: Medications to reduce inflammation, cough suppressants, and in severe cases, surgery may be recommended.
• Lung Disease: Bronchodilators and steroids may be used to open up airways and reduce inflammation.
• Allergies: Antihistamines and environmental modifications may help alleviate allergy symptoms.
• Foreign Bodies: These will need to be removed surgically or by using special techniques with endoscopic tools.
• Laryngeal Paralysis: Surgery to secure open the airway is often needed to resolve issues with Laryngeal Paralysis.

Expert Insight

“Treatment isn’t just about medicine; it’s about providing comfort and ensuring your old dog’s quality of life is as high as possible.” remarks Dr. Ben Carter, a veterinarian specialized in senior dog care. “Small adjustments at home, combined with the appropriate medical interventions, can make a massive difference to your dog’s nighttime comfort.”

Home Care and Prevention

Here are some steps you can take at home to manage your dog’s coughing and gagging:

• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Obesity can exacerbate respiratory issues, therefore keeping your dog at an appropriate weight is essential.
• Regular Exercise: Gentle exercise can help strengthen their respiratory system and promote overall health, but you should always consult with your vet on the most appropriate exercise routine for your dog.
• Provide a Clean Environment: Keep their bedding and living areas clean to minimize exposure to potential irritants and allergens.
• Use a Humidifier: A humidifier may help to moisten the air and soothe their airways, especially during the winter months when the air is dry.
• Minimize Stress: Stress can trigger coughing fits, so it’s important to provide a calm and supportive environment.
• Follow Vet’s Instructions: Always administer medication as prescribed by your veterinarian. Schedule follow up appointments and continue to work closely with your veterinarian to ensure your dog’s continued health.

Conclusion

It can be worrying to see your Old Dog Coughing And Gagging At Night, but knowing the possible causes, understanding the different types of coughs and learning the treatment options can help you be a better advocate for your furry companion’s health. If your senior dog is experiencing nighttime coughing and gagging, don’t hesitate to consult with your vet as soon as possible. They can help you identify the underlying cause and work with you on creating a treatment and management plan to ensure your dog gets the restful sleep they deserve. By being observant and proactive, you can help your senior dog stay comfortable and happy for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why does my old dog cough more at night?
   The position of lying down can cause mucus and fluid to accumulate, making it harder to breathe. Also, nighttime is often when the airways are more relaxed and prone to irritation in some conditions.

2. Can allergies cause my old dog to cough?
   Yes, just like humans, dogs can suffer from seasonal or environmental allergies that can cause coughing. This can worsen at night, when they may be exposed to dust mites or pollens in their bedding or sleeping environment.

3. Is coughing at night a sign of a serious problem?
   It can be. While some coughs may be mild, persistent or worsening night coughing can indicate underlying conditions like heart disease, lung issues, or tracheal collapse, which all require professional attention.

4. How can I tell if my dog has a heart problem?
   Wet, soft coughs that are often worse at night or when lying down can be a sign of heart disease. Other signs include reduced exercise tolerance, lethargy, and a distended abdomen. If you see these symptoms, you should consult with your vet. You may also want to learn more about signs of congestive heart failure in dogs.

5. Can I give my dog human cough medicine?
   No, you should never give your dog human cough medicine, as some ingredients can be toxic to them. Always follow your vet’s advice and use medications prescribed specifically for dogs.

6. What can I do to help my dog’s nighttime cough right now?
   Make sure your dog has fresh, clean water available. Try using a humidifier in the room where they sleep to ease their breathing. Keep their sleeping area clean, and avoid potential irritants like smoke and strong perfumes. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek veterinary help immediately.

7. Can weight affect my dog’s coughing?
   Yes, being overweight can exacerbate respiratory issues. Excess weight adds pressure on the lungs and the heart, making it more difficult for your dog to breathe. Maintaining a healthy weight is important for managing coughs.

Explore More

If you found this article helpful, you might also be interested in learning more about other health issues that affect senior dogs. Keeping up with your dog’s health as they age will help you be prepared for any challenges you may face together.

At Dog Care Story, we are dedicated to providing you with reliable, helpful, and in-depth information about all things dog-related. We aim to support every dog owner with knowledge and resources to provide the best care for their canine companions. When you need further help, reach out to us at suport@DogCareStory.com, and our dedicated team will be happy to assist you.