Last updated on March 24th, 2023 at 11:33 pm

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My Dog Sounds Like He Has a Hairball?

Many dog owners wonder if, dogs can get hairballs? Well, there is a quick answer to that and that’s. 

Quick Answer

Yes, dogs can get hairballs. When dogs get hairballs, you’ll hear dreadful sounds such as goose honking and that will follow with loud coughing sounds. 

When something disturbs their throat, they show a common response known as gagging. But the good news is it will come and disappear quickly. But if it persists regularly, what can you do? In this article, we’ll share all the information that can help if your dog sounds like he has a hairball. And, how to stop it.

Why Your Dog Gags Like He Has a Hairball?  6 Reasons!

There are many reasons for dog gagging, besides hairballs. Before, you get worried and think he might have a hairball inside of him view some other dog gagging causes.

• Reverse Sneezing 

When flat-faced dog breeds make choking noises, it can be due to reverse sneezing. Reverse sneezing isn’t cough, and it’s caused by an irritant that produces spasms in the throat. Some examples of irritants are rapid change in temperature, exercise, too-tight collar, foreign material, and postnasal discharge.  

• Hairball  

It is a common problem with cats, but dogs can also become a victim of Hairballs. When dogs eat fur, the hair doesn’t move and pass the digestive system and collects. As a result, they become hairballs.

Common indications of dog hairballs:

• Coughing lack of appetite 
• vomiting
• Gastrointestinal distress

When the condition persists, it can lead to further medical issues. Therefore, it’s essential to take your dog to the vet as soon as you can. Sometimes the laxative and supplements can be used to pass the majority of hairballs. But if it doesn’t happen, surgical intervention will become mandatory.  

• Kennel Cough 

This contagious respiratory ailment can affect dogs in kennels, dog parks, and dog shows where airborne viruses can pass from one dog to another. Dog owners start to feel that something is stuck in their throat, but it’s actually because of the kennel cough.  

You can use antibiotics and cough suppressants for a quick recovery. Consult your vet for the best treatment. 

This cause can be fixed in two to three weeks.  

• Chronic Bronchitis  

Chronic Bronchitis results in a dry and hacking cough. The condition can get worst with activity. It results in chronic inflammation of the airways. Dogs suffer from this issue because of exposure to airborne contaminants and irritants. When the condition isn’t fixed quickly, it can lead to serious health issues.  

• Cancer  

Dogs with lung cancer will have mild coughing. However, the situation depends on the severity of the disease. The majority of the problems originate in other parts of the body and then spread to the lungs.  Don’t get worried!

• Heart Issues  

Dog’s coughing and gagging can be due to heart issues. You need to watch out for decreased appetite, fatigue, weakness, poorer endurance, trouble breathing, and fast pulse. 

When you notice any of these signs in your feline friend, take him to the vet. 

What Causes Hairballs in Dogs?  

Hairballs in dogs usually occur when dogs lick a skin area with loose skin. They end up swallowing their fur during grooming or just licking. When you notice a strand of hair in his feces, it’s a sign that your dog has been eating their fur. 

If you see a lot of furs we recommend you, consult with your vet.

Are Hairballs Dangerous for Dogs? 

Yes, hairballs can be dangerous for dogs. When hair collects in your dog’s stomach, it can result in a gage reaction. Which can lead to further illnesses.   

When the hairballs are not taken out from their body, they can block your dog’s vital fluids and result in dehydration.  

“If you see them, then take it out as soon as you can!” 

Dr. Goldstein Cornell

How to Prevent Hairballs in Dogs? Is There a Way? 

When dogs groom themselves, they eat more hair than they should. 

The following things can prevent hairballs in dogs: 

• #1 Brush Your Dog Regularly 

Regular grooming can prevent hairballs in dogs. When you regularly brush your dog, it helps get rid loose of potential hair that they might swallow. If possible, take your dog to a professional groomer preferably every two Months.

– The video below will help you groom your dog properly

• Change Your Dog’s Diet 

You might be wondering, what’s the relationship between a dog’s diet and hairballs? 

Well when you feed a high-fiber diet to your dog for a long time, it can aid in the movement of hairballs. Consult your vet before feeding such food to your dog.  

Provide plenty of water for your dog so that the things inside the body keep moving without any problems.

Final Words – Hairballs In Dogs

When a dog sounds like he has a hairball, it can be disgusting and to be honest quite irritating. 

The best way to potentially prevent dogs from getting hairballs is to prevent them from swallowing hairs/fur. 

Their are available treatments however they can become quite pricey and expensive. As well as time-consuming. Treat them quickly to prevent further damage.