TL;DR: A dry, hacking cough at night is often caused by Kennel Cough or tracheal issues and requires a vet visit within 48 hours; however, breathing struggles or pale gums signify a medical emergency.
Why is my dog coughing at night and what does it mean?
- A dry, hacking cough that sounds like something is stuck in the throat is common and often associated with Kennel Cough (Infectious Tracheobronchitis).
- The cough can also be triggered by a collapsing trachea, heart disease, or environmental irritants.
- Lying down at night causes changes in airway pressure or fluid distribution that can make these coughs more frequent or intense.
How urgent is it if my dog has a persistent hacking cough?
- A persistent hacking cough is generally a medium-priority situation requiring a veterinary appointment within 24 to 48 hours.
- Seek immediate emergency care if your dog’s gums appear blue or pale, if they struggle to catch their breath, or if they are extremely lethargic.
- Schedule a professional evaluation if the cough sounds like a 'honk' or occurs primarily after drinking or excitement to check respiratory and cardiac health.
How can a photo or video help my veterinarian diagnose the cough?
- A photo can document your dog's resting posture or any visible discharge from the nose or mouth.
- A video of the coughing episode is a vital tool, as it captures the specific sound and physical movement of the chest and throat.
- This evidence helps the vet distinguish between a true cough, a 'reverse sneeze,' or a gagging reflex for a faster and more accurate diagnosis.
Clinical Context (Merck Veterinary Manual)
A prominent clinical sign of tracheobronchitis in dogs is paroxysms of harsh, dry coughing, which may be followed by retching and gagging, and is easily induced by gentle palpation of the larynx or trachea. Spasms of coughing are most severe after rest or a change of environment, or at the beginning of exercise. Affected dogs may demonstrate few additional clinical signs except for partial anorexia. Development of more severe signs, including fever, purulent nasal discharge, depression, anorexia, and a productive cough, especially in puppies, indicates a complicating systemic infection such as distemper or bronchopneumonia. Severity usually diminishes during the first 5 days, but the disease persists for 10–20 days.
Chapter: Respiratory
Source: The Merck Veterinary Manual, 11th Edition (Page 1492)