My Maltese seems to have a "silent" coughing noise

by Anne Jessel
(Reading)

Mischievous Amos

My very healthy 20 month Maltese has developed a "Silent" coughing noise from time to time.
Otherwise he is absolutely healthy and walks my legs off.

I've recently had new mats and it seems to coincide when he's in contact with them??? It's a very strange sound.

Also he sneezes a lot but has recently had a nose wash out under GA to ensure nothing up his nose. The tickly feeling must still be there as he shows signs of the sneeze about to come and then there are about 3 or 4 or more together.I get worried that he may bang his nose on the floor and cause a nose bleed.

He's well, funny and full of life when he's awake. Should I be concerned?






Hi Annie
From what you describe it sounds as though your puppy may be showing signs of an allergy, perhaps to these new mats that you mention.

Dog Allergies are fairly more often seen than most people realize and although dog food is a common 'trigger', seasonal and contact allergies can also occur.

Eliminating his exposure to whatever it is you think is causing his allergies and seeing if the symptoms diminish over the following weeks is the best way to find out for sure if this is what's happening.

Meantime you could also give him some benadryl to see if that helps reduce the coughing and sneezing. Check out my Basic Dog First Aid Supplies page for information on the best type of Benadryl to use and the right dosage.

I'd also recommend taking a look at my Dog Allergy Treatment page for more tips and advice.

If these measure don't help, or if your dog shows any signs of illness, take him back to your veterinarian for a check up and professional advice.

Best of luck, hope he's feeling better soon.