When your dog is both panting and coughing, it may signal more than a passing discomfort. These symptoms can point to underlying issues affecting the lungs, heart, or airways—and they often require prompt attention to prevent serious complications.
We outline the common causes of dog panting and coughing, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
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Dog Panting and Coughing — Why It Happens
Dogs pant and cough together due to respiratory infections, heart problems, airway irritation, or environmental triggers. While panting is often associated with heat or anxiety, when paired with a cough it typically signals a deeper issue in the respiratory or cardiovascular system.
Common Causes of Dog Panting and Coughing
Kennel Cough
Kennel cough is a highly contagious upper respiratory infection that spreads in places like kennels, daycares, and dog parks.
It causes a dry, hacking cough that may be followed by gagging or retching. Dogs also pant more if they’re struggling to breathe or feeling under the weather.
Most cases are mild, but some can progress to pneumonia, especially in puppies or senior dogs.
Rest, isolation, and sometimes antibiotics or cough suppressants are recommended based on severity.
Heart Disease or Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)
In dogs with heart conditions, fluid can build up in the lungs, making it difficult to breathe.
This results in a persistent cough and increased panting—even when the dog is at rest.
Other signs may include fatigue, reluctance to exercise, fainting spells, and a bloated belly.
CHF is more common in older dogs and small breeds. It requires long-term management with medications and close monitoring.
Read more: Dog Panting and Shaking (Common causes)
Tracheal Collapse
Small breed dogs like Yorkies, Pomeranians, and Chihuahuas are prone to tracheal collapse—a condition where the windpipe narrows, causing irritation and breathing difficulty.
The cough often sounds like a goose honk and worsens during excitement, exercise, or pressure on the neck.
Affected dogs may also pant heavily as they struggle to get enough air.
Weight management, cough suppressants, and using a harness instead of a collar can help.
In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.
Allergies or Environmental Irritants
Just like humans, dogs can suffer from allergies to dust, smoke, pollen, or household chemicals.
Exposure can trigger coughing, wheezing, sneezing, and panting due to airway inflammation.
Symptoms often worsen in certain seasons or environments and improve with air filtration and allergen reduction.
Chronic allergies may require antihistamines, steroids, or other veterinary treatments.
Pneumonia or Lower Respiratory Infection
Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections in the lungs can lead to deep coughing, labored breathing, panting, and even fever.
Dogs may also display fatigue, poor appetite, or a bluish tint to the gums in severe cases.
This condition can become life-threatening if left untreated and often requires X-rays, antibiotics, and oxygen therapy.
Prompt veterinary intervention is essential for recovery.
Laryngeal Paralysis
This condition affects the muscles that control the larynx, leading to airway obstruction and noisy, labored breathing.
Dogs may cough when excited, pant excessively, or appear to struggle for breath.
It commonly affects large breeds like Labradors and is most noticeable during exercise or heat.
Mild cases may respond to lifestyle changes, while more serious cases require surgical correction.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Panting and Coughing
Keep your dog calm and avoid any physical exertion.
Check for other signs like lethargy, appetite loss, nasal discharge, or blue gums.
Remove potential irritants from the environment such as smoke, strong cleaners, or dusty air.
Use a harness instead of a collar to avoid putting pressure on the trachea.
Ensure your dog is in a cool, quiet space and has access to clean water.
Do not give human cough medications—they may be toxic to dogs.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
Seek veterinary care if your dog:
Has a persistent cough that lasts more than a few days
Pants heavily while at rest
Shows signs of distress, collapse, or blue-tinged gums
Has labored or noisy breathing
Refuses food or seems lethargic
Panting and coughing together can escalate quickly, so early intervention is key.
Read more: Dog Panting and Breathing Fast (What it means)
Key Takeaway
If your dog is coughing and panting, don’t assume it’s just a passing irritation. These signs often point to airway or heart problems, especially if they persist or appear suddenly.
Keep your dog comfortable, reduce environmental stressors, and consult your vet to determine the cause and treatment.
With the right support, most dogs can recover or be managed successfully for the long term.