Why Does My Dog Keep Coughing? Causes, What It Means & How to Help

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Why Does My Dog Keep Coughing? 

We at Milo Naturals know how frustrating and worrying it can be when you keep asking, “why does my dog keep coughing?” An occasional cough isn’t unusual, but when coughing becomes frequent or ongoing, it’s a sign that something is irritating your dog’s airways, throat, lungs, or even their heart.

In this expert guide, we explain why dogs keep coughing, the most common underlying causes, when to be concerned, and how you can support your dog’s respiratory health naturally while working alongside your vet.

Why Does My Dog Keep Coughing?

If your dog keeps coughing, it usually means the cough reflex is being repeatedly triggered. This can happen due to inflammation, infection, irritation, structural issues, or fluid pressure in or around the airways.

The key factors to consider are:

  • How long the coughing has been happening

  • Whether it’s dry or wet

  • If it’s worse at night or during activity

  • Whether other symptoms are present

Let’s break down the most common reasons:

1. Kennel Cough (Very Common Cause)

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Kennel cough is one of the top answers to “why does my dog keep coughing?”

It’s a contagious respiratory infection that irritates the trachea, making dogs cough repeatedly.

Typical signs include:

  • Persistent dry or hacking cough

  • Gagging or retching after coughing

  • Coughing triggered by excitement or exercise

  • Normal appetite and energy in mild cases

Even after the infection clears, the airway can remain irritated for weeks, causing ongoing coughing.

We dedicated a blog post to it here: https://www.milonaturals.com/blogs/news/kennel-cough-in-dogs-causes-symptoms-amp-how-to-help-expert-guide

2. Allergies or Environmental Irritants

Many dogs keep coughing due to repeated exposure to irritants.

Common triggers include:

  • Pollen, grass, or mould

  • Dust or dust mites

  • Smoke or fireplaces

  • Cleaning sprays and air fresheners

  • Dry indoor air

Dogs with sensitive airways may cough more during certain seasons or indoors, especially at night. Reducing irritants and supporting airway comfort can make a big difference.

3. Collapsing Trachea

This condition is especially common in small breeds like Yorkies, Pomeranians, Chihuahuas, Shih Tzus, and Pugs.

Why it causes ongoing coughing:

  • The trachea narrows or collapses slightly

  • Airflow becomes turbulent

  • The cough reflex is easily triggered

Signs include:

  • A goose-like hacking cough

  • Coughing when pulling on a collar

  • Coughing during excitement or after drinking

This is a chronic condition that requires long-term management.

4. Respiratory Infections

Beyond kennel cough, viral or bacterial infections can cause a dog to keep coughing.

Watch for:

  • Wet or phlegmy cough

  • Nasal discharge

  • Fever

  • Lethargy

  • Reduced appetite

Lower respiratory infections are more serious and always require veterinary care.

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5. Heart Disease (Often Missed)

A very important reason behind why a dog keeps coughing, especially in older dogs, is heart disease.

Clues include:

  • Coughing at night or early morning

  • Coughing after rest

  • Reduced stamina

  • Faster breathing at rest

Fluid buildup around the lungs can trigger chronic coughing and should always be assessed by a vet.

6. Reverse Sneezing or Upper Airway Sensitivity

Some dogs appear to “keep coughing” when they are actually experiencing frequent reverse sneezing or throat irritation.

This may sound like:

  • Rapid inhaling

  • Gagging noises

  • Short coughing bursts

While often harmless, frequent episodes may indicate ongoing airway irritation, we did a deeper dive on it here: Reverse Sneezing

Why Ongoing Coughing Shouldn’t Be Ignored


If you’re repeatedly asking “why does my dog keep coughing?”, it’s because the issue hasn’t resolved.

Ongoing coughing can:

  • Damage the airway lining

  • Increase inflammation

  • Make future coughing more likely

  • Indicate an underlying condition that needs management

Early intervention almost always leads to better outcomes.

How to Help a Dog That Keeps Coughing

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✔ Switch from a collar to a harness

Reduces pressure on the trachea.

✔ Use a humidifier

Moist air helps calm irritated airways.

✔ Avoid smoke, sprays, and strong scents

These can trigger coughing fits.

✔ Keep activity calm during flare-ups

Excitement worsens coughing.

✔ Support respiratory comfort naturally

Many owners use gentle botanicals to soothe airway irritation alongside vet care.

Natural Support for Dogs Who Keep Coughing

Dogs that keep coughing often have ongoing airway sensitivity or inflammation.

Botanicals traditionally used for respiratory support include:

  • Tiger Milk Mushroom – supports lung comfort and respiratory balance

  • Cordyceps – helps maintain healthy breathing and oxygen efficiency

  • Mullein Leaf – commonly used to soothe dry, irritating coughs

  • Nettle Leaf – supports dogs sensitive to allergens

  • Marshmallow Root – coats and comforts the throat

These ingredients are found in Milo Naturals Respiratory Support, which many owners use to support airway comfort during recovery or chronic coughing tendencies. It is not a replacement for veterinary treatment but can be helpful for ongoing support.

When to See a Vet if Your Dog Keeps Coughing

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Contact your vet if:

  • Coughing lasts longer than 1–2 weeks

  • The cough becomes wet or productive

  • Breathing looks laboured

  • Your dog coughs mainly at night

  • Appetite or energy drops

  • Your dog is a puppy or senior

Persistent coughing always deserves professional evaluation.

FAQ: Why Does My Dog Keep Coughing?

Why does my dog keep coughing but seem fine otherwise?

Mild kennel cough, allergies, or airway irritation can cause coughing even when dogs act normal.

Can allergies make my dog cough constantly?

Yes. Environmental allergies commonly trigger repeated coughing in sensitive dogs.

Is it normal for dogs to cough every day?

No. Daily coughing usually indicates an underlying issue that should be addressed.

How long is too long for a dog to keep coughing?

More than 7–14 days warrants a vet check.

Can natural supplements help ongoing coughing?

They can help soothe irritation and support airway comfort, especially alongside vet care, buy our milo naturals respiratory support here.

References:

Merck Veterinary Manual – Coughing in Dogs (Airway Disorders)
https://www.msdvetmanual.com/dog-owners/lung-and-airway-disorders-of-dogs/coughing-in-dogs

American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) – Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease (Kennel Cough)
https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/canine-infectious-respiratory-disease-complex-kennel-cough

Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine – Heart Disease in Dogs
https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments/animal-health-diagnostic-center/testing/cardiology/heart-disease-dogs