Shih Tzu Coughing Guide
A cough may sound dry, wet, honking, gagging, or like repeated throat clearing. Describing the sound and recording a short video is usually more useful than guessing the cause.
Because Shih Tzus are short-faced, coughing that occurs with labored breathing, blue or pale gums, collapse, or overheating should be treated as urgent.
Record the Pattern
Note whether coughing follows excitement, drinking, eating, leash pressure, sleep, exercise, or exposure to other dogs. Record nasal discharge, fever, reduced appetite, fatigue, retching, and breathing rate at rest.
Reduce Avoidable Irritation
Use a well-fitted harness instead of pressure on the neck, avoid smoke and aerosols, keep the dog cool, and pause strenuous activity until the cause is understood. Do not give human cough medicine unless a veterinarian specifically directs it.
Call Promptly for Breathing Changes
Contact a veterinarian for a persistent or worsening cough, fever, poor appetite, weakness, or known exposure to respiratory disease. Seek emergency care for breathing distress, collapse, blue or gray gums, or inability to settle.