When your dog eats something they shouldn't, they will often gag and cough. This can be a normal reaction and it shouldn't be a cause for concern.

However, if it's happening regularly it could be a sign of something more serious than a wrong swallow. It is important to take your pet to the vet if it continues for longer than 48 hours.

Kennel Cough

If your dog suddenly starts to gag, it can be a sign of something much more serious than they think. It could indicate a problem with their digestive system, an underlying health issue, or even something as simple as parasites.

Kennel cough is a respiratory disease caused by bacteria, such as Bordetella bronchiseptica. This bacteria can work in conjunction with viruses, such as canine distemper and parainfluenza, which weaken the dog's immune system.

This combination of microorganisms can spread easily from one infected dog to another. The infection is most common in boarding kennels, obedience classes, grooming salons and other places where dogs congregate.

A dry hacking cough is the most common symptom of kennel cough, and it can often be accompanied by gagging or retching. Depending on the severity of the condition, your vet may recommend medication to help reduce the symptoms.

Sinusitis

Sinusitis is a term used to describe the inflammation of the mucous membrane lining of the sinuses. This can lead to a runny nose, nasal discharge, sneezing, coughing and gagging in your dog.

A common cause of rhinitis in dogs is viral infection with canine distemper, adenovirus types 1 and 2, and canine parainfluenza. Occasionally, it may be caused by bacteria or a fungal infection.

Usually, this condition will clear up on its own and disappear over time. However, there are some cases where it can persist for years or even become chronic and may require medication from the veterinarian.

During a veterinary visit, your vet will examine your pet and determine the cause of the gagging. They may do x-rays, a culture of the discharge or use an endoscope to take a look at your pet’s nose and sinuses.

Rhinitis

Rhinitis is one of the most common upper respiratory conditions that affects dogs. It can be caused by allergies, bacterial infections, or parasites.

Dogs with longer noses and shortened heads (brachycephalic breeds) are most susceptible to this condition. It can also be caused by a number of different allergenic triggers including pollen, mold, and smoke.

If you notice that your dog is gagging, but they are not vomiting, it is important to seek medical attention. This type of gagging, known as dry heaving, can be very serious.

A vet will be able to determine if your dog has a foreign body in their throat or esophagus that is causing the problem. If they do, the vet will clear the airway and remove the object. They may prescribe antibiotics and steroids to reduce inflammation.

Laryngeal Paralysis

Dogs gag because they cannot breathe well due to their larynx (voicebox) being paralyzed. This condition can be life threatening.

In a normal larynx, the cartilages that open and close the trachea, or windpipe, are very strong and allow your dog to breathe in and out effectively. These arytenoid cartilages are normally supported by muscles and the nerves that control them.

When your dog develops laryngeal paralysis, these muscles become paralyzed and it becomes impossible for them to open and close the trachea.

The larynx is usually the first thing that is affected in dogs with this condition, though it can occur at any age. It can be hereditary or acquired, and it is more common in middle-aged to older dogs, including Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Newfoundlands, Setters and other large breeds of dogs.

Symptoms of laryngeal paralysis are usually progressive and include panting, noise during breathing and coughing or gagging when eating or drinking. Your veterinarian will check for this condition by listening to your pet and conducting physical exams and neurological tests.