When your dog is constantly hacking and coughing, it can be alarming and leave you wondering if something serious is going on.
While an occasional cough may not be unusual, persistent hacking is often a sign that something needs attention.
We outline the common causes of constant hacking and coughing in dogs, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Dog Constantly Hacking and Coughing — Why It Happens
A dog may hack and cough constantly due to respiratory infections, kennel cough, tracheal collapse, heart disease, allergies, or even something stuck in the throat. These conditions irritate the airways and trigger the hacking sound, which can resemble gagging or trying to clear the throat.
While some causes are mild and resolve with care, others are more serious and require a veterinarian’s immediate attention.
Dog Constantly Hacking and Coughing: Common Causes
Kennel Cough
Kennel cough is one of the most common reasons for constant hacking in dogs. It’s a contagious respiratory infection that spreads quickly in places where dogs gather, such as kennels, dog parks, or grooming salons.
The hallmark sign is a persistent, honking cough that often sounds like your dog is trying to clear something stuck in their throat.
While it may sound alarming, mild cases often resolve on their own with rest and supportive care.
However, young puppies, senior dogs, or dogs with weak immune systems can develop complications like pneumonia, making veterinary attention important if symptoms don’t improve.
Read more: Dog Constantly Hacking and Gagging (Here’s Why)
Tracheal Collapse
Small breeds such as Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, and Yorkies are especially prone to tracheal collapse.
This condition occurs when the cartilage rings of the trachea weaken, causing the airway to flatten when the dog breathes or gets excited.
The result is a harsh, honking cough that may worsen with exercise, excitement, or pulling on the leash. It is often mistaken for choking.
Tracheal collapse is a chronic condition, and while it can be managed with medications, lifestyle changes, or sometimes surgery, it does require ongoing veterinary care.
Heart Disease
Coughing and hacking can also signal heart disease, especially in older dogs or breeds prone to cardiac conditions.
When the heart isn’t pumping effectively, fluid may back up into the lungs, leading to irritation and coughing.
Dogs with heart disease often show additional symptoms like lethargy, exercise intolerance, and in severe cases, difficulty breathing or fainting.
If your dog is constantly coughing and you suspect heart issues, prompt veterinary evaluation is essential.
Allergies or Irritants
Just like people, dogs can develop allergies to pollen, dust, mold, or even household cleaners. Constant exposure to these irritants can inflame the airways and trigger frequent coughing or hacking.
If the hacking seems seasonal, happens after cleaning, or appears when your dog is outside, allergies or environmental irritants could be the cause.
While not usually life-threatening, allergies can significantly affect your dog’s comfort and may require antihistamines, diet adjustments, or environmental management.
Foreign Object in the Throat
Sometimes, hacking is your dog’s way of trying to expel something stuck in their throat.
Small objects, food, grass, or even pieces of toys can cause sudden and persistent coughing.
Unlike other causes, this situation often comes on suddenly and may be accompanied by pawing at the mouth, gagging, or visible distress.
This can quickly become an emergency if the airway is blocked, so immediate veterinary help is required if you suspect your dog is choking.
Pneumonia or Other Infections
More serious respiratory infections, such as pneumonia, can also lead to persistent coughing and hacking.
These conditions often come with additional symptoms like fever, lethargy, nasal discharge, and loss of appetite.
Pneumonia requires prompt medical treatment, including antibiotics, supportive care, and in some cases hospitalization.
Left untreated, it can become life-threatening, so a dog that seems unwell along with constant coughing should always be evaluated quickly.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Constantly Hacking and Coughing
If your dog is hacking and coughing frequently, start by observing the situation closely. Note when the coughing happens—whether it’s after exercise, at night, or after exposure to other dogs. This information will help your vet narrow down the cause.
At home, make sure your dog is comfortable in a calm environment with plenty of fresh water.
Avoid using collars that put pressure on the throat—opt for a harness instead. Keeping your home free of smoke, dust, and strong scents can also reduce airway irritation.
If kennel cough is suspected and your dog is otherwise bright and eating, you can monitor them for a few days while ensuring they rest and avoid contact with other dogs.
However, puppies, older dogs, or those with existing health problems should be seen sooner.
For mild allergy-related coughing, washing bedding frequently, using an air purifier, and limiting outdoor exposure during high-pollen seasons may help. Always consult your vet before giving any human medications, as many are unsafe for dogs.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
Not all coughing is an emergency, but constant hacking should never be ignored. Call your vet right away if your dog is struggling to breathe, coughing up blood, or appears extremely lethargic.
If the coughing persists for more than a few days without improvement, veterinary evaluation is necessary to rule out more serious conditions like pneumonia, heart disease, or tracheal collapse.
You should also seek urgent care if your dog suddenly starts coughing after chewing on something, as this could mean a foreign object is lodged in the airway.
Remember, persistent coughing is the body’s way of signaling that something isn’t right. Early diagnosis and treatment often lead to better outcomes.
Read more: Dog Hacking (Explained)
Key Takeaway
A dog constantly hacking and coughing may be dealing with something as simple as kennel cough or as serious as heart disease or pneumonia.
While some mild cases resolve with rest and care, ongoing or severe coughing should always be checked by a veterinarian.
By observing your dog closely, keeping their environment safe, and knowing when to call your vet, you’ll be taking the best steps to protect your dog’s health and comfort.