Table of Contents
Table of Contents
When your new puppy starts coughing, it can be alarming—and rightfully so. Puppies have developing immune systems, which means they’re more vulnerable to respiratory infections and complications than adult dogs. While some coughs are mild and harmless, others can signal something serious.
Here at TelaVets, we’re here to help you sort through the scary stuff, determine what’s normal and what’s not, and get your puppy back to tail-wagging health fast.
🐶 What Causes Coughing in Puppies?
A puppy’s cough can be caused by a variety of things—some minor, some requiring prompt treatment. Here are a few common culprits:
- Kennel Cough (Infectious Tracheobronchitis)
- Highly contagious and common in shelters, boarding, or playgroup environments. Sounds like a dry, hacking “honking” cough.
- Respiratory Infections (Viral or Bacterial)
- Just like human babies, puppies can catch colds or more serious illnesses like canine influenza or pneumonia.
- Canine Distemper Virus
- A serious (and often deadly) viral disease in unvaccinated puppies that starts with coughing and nasal discharge.
- Parasites (like lungworms or heartworms)
- These can irritate the lungs and cause persistent coughing, especially in regions where parasites are common.
- Irritants (dust, smoke, perfumes)
- Sensitive puppy lungs can react to environmental irritants, causing occasional coughing.
- Collapsed Trachea (more common in small breeds)
- A structural issue that causes coughing, especially when excited or pulling on a leash.
🚨 When Should You Worry About a Puppy’s Cough?
Occasional throat-clearing or mild coughing may not be an emergency—but here’s when you should contact a vet immediately:
- 🐾 Coughing that lasts more than 2-3 days
- 🐾 A wet, phlegmy, or honking cough
- 🐾 Coughing accompanied by nasal discharge, sneezing, or fever
- 🐾 Signs of lethargy, loss of appetite, or labored breathing
- 🐾 A young puppy (under 4 months) showing any respiratory symptoms
- 🐾 Coughing after recent exposure to other dogs (daycare, dog park, etc.)
In puppies, respiratory issues can progress quickly. Early diagnosis is key to preventing complications.
🩺 How TelaVets Can Help Your Coughing Puppy
Skip the stress of a clinic visit and let us help from the comfort of your home. Here’s how TelaVets supports you and your puppy:
1. Virtual Vet Appointments — Same Day Help
Book a video consultation and talk to a licensed vet who will assess your puppy’s symptoms, medical history, environment, and exposure risks.
2. Accurate Diagnosis & Personalized Treatment Plans
We’ll determine the likely cause of your puppy’s cough and design a treatment plan. This could include:
- Antibiotics or antivirals (if infection is suspected)
- Antitussives or bronchodilators for cough relief
- Probiotics or immune support supplements
- Parasite testing or deworming protocols
- Referral for chest X-rays or in-person care if needed
3. Prescription Medications — Delivered Fast
Need meds to help your pup feel better? We’ll get them delivered right to your door—often as soon as the next day.
4. Support for Vaccination and Prevention
We’ll guide you on vaccinations (like Bordetella and DHPP) to help prevent future infections—and help you set up a schedule that’s right for your pup.
5. Follow-Up Consults for Peace of Mind
We’re not a one-and-done platform. If your puppy’s cough doesn’t improve or changes, we’ll be right here with unlimited follow-ups and ongoing guidance.
🐕 Common Causes of Puppy Coughs (and How TelaVets Can Help)
1. Kennel Cough
- What it sounds like: Dry, honking cough
- How we help: Medications, rest recommendations, and isolation tips
2. Canine Distemper
- What it sounds like: Wet cough, fever, eye discharge ("eye gunk")
- How we help: Urgent care coordination and supportive treatment guidance
3. Allergies or Environmental Irritants
- What it sounds like: Intermittent dry cough
- How we help: Home environment evaluation and allergen reduction strategies
4. Lungworms or Heartworms
- What it sounds like: Persistent cough, fatigue
- How we help: Parasite testing, diagnosis, and deworming treatment plans
5. Cold or Canine Flu
- What it sounds like: Mild cough, sneezing
- How we help: Supportive care, symptom relief, and medications if needed
🐾 Why Choose TelaVets for Puppy Coughs?
- 👩⚕️ Licensed Veterinarians available 24/7
- 💻 No-stress virtual consults — perfect for nervous pups
- 💊 Fast, affordable prescriptions delivered to your home
- 🐶 Puppy-focused care tailored to age, breed, and lifestyle
- 💬 Unlimited follow-ups to monitor progress
- 💰 Only $65 per consultation
💻 Book Your Puppy’s Vet Appointment Today
Don’t wait for your puppy’s mild cough to turn into something serious. Book your TelaVets visit today and get the expert advice and treatment you need—without the stress of a clinic.
