A Closer Look at the Top 7 Causes of Gagging in Dogs

Gagging in dogs can be a frightening experience for pet owners. It is important to understand the causes of gagging in order to provide the best care and treatment for your canine companion. Common causes of gagging include acid reflux, laryngeal diseases, megaesophagus, tracheitis, cricopharyngeal dysphagia, foreign material, and mass such as a polyp or cancerous mass. In this article, we will take a closer look at these 7 top causes of gagging in dogs so that you can have an informed understanding of what might be causing your pup to gag and how it should be treated.

1. Acid Reflux and Esophagitis

Acid reflux or GERD is a condition in which stomach acid flows into the esophagus, causing gagging and other uncomfortable symptoms such as coughing, regurgitation, and repeated swallowing. The result of esophagitis is an inflammation of the esophagus that results in gagging in dogs.

There are many different causes of esophagitis which can include a weak lower esophageal sphincter, dietary factors, hiatal hernia, and other medical ailments.

Treatment for acid reflux (GERD) and esophagitis may include dietary modifications, antacids, and prokinetic medications.

2. Laryngeal disorders such as Laryngeal Paralysis

Laryngeal paralysis is a condition that affects a dog's larynx, the structure at the opening of the trachea (windpipe) that plays a crucial role in breathing, swallowing, and vocalization. The larynx consists of cartilage plates called arytenoid cartilages, which are controlled by muscles and nerves. During normal breathing, the muscles pull the arytenoid cartilages apart, allowing air to flow through the trachea. When swallowing, the arytenoid cartilages will close to prevent food or liquid from entering the trachea and lungs.

Gagging in dogs is a common symptom of laryngeal paralysis because the restricted movement of the arytenoid cartilages interferes with normal swallowing. As the dog tries to swallow food or liquid, it may struggle to fully close off the trachea, leading to gagging or coughing. Additionally, the reduced airflow during breathing can cause the dog to make unusual respiratory noises or exhibit respiratory distress, especially during exercise or excitement.

Older dogs, especially Labrador Retrievers, can suffer from Geriatric Onset Laryngeal Paralysis and Polyneuropathy (GOLPP), which is a progressive neurological condition where gagging may be the only concern and symptom.

Surgical repair is often recommended for moderate to severe cases of laryngeal paralysis to improve the dog's quality of life and reduce the risk of life-threatening respiratory distress. In some cases, medications like doxepin may be prescribed to help manage the symptoms of laryngeal paralysis. Doxepin has anticholinergic properties that can help reduce secretions in the airway and has been shown to provide relief in some dogs with mild laryngeal paralysis or those who are not suitable candidates for surgery.

3. Megaesophagus

Megaesophagus is a condition where the esophagus enlarges and loses its muscle tone, making it difficult for food or liquid to travel from the mouth to the stomach. This can lead to gagging and coughing if food or liquid gets stuck in the enlarged esophagus which is unable to propel it down into the stomach. Additionally, it can cause gagging in dogs due to the pressure of the enlarged esophagus on the trachea.

Treatment for megaesophagus includes medications to reduce stomach acid and control muscular contractions as well as dietary modifications, including feeding smaller meals multiple times throughout the day in an upright position.

4.Tracheitis/Bordatella (Kennel Cough)

Tracheitis refers to the inflammation of the trachea, or windpipe, while kennel cough, alternatively known as infectious tracheobronchitis, is a widespread respiratory illness in dogs resulting from a mix of viral and bacterial agents. Both tracheitis and kennel cough can result in gagging in dogs due to irritation and inflammation of the respiratory tract.

Bordatella or kennel cough is distinguished by a rough, dry cough that may be accompanied by heaving or gagging, particularly following episodes of coughing. Inflammation from the infection in the trachea and bronchi sensitizes the dog's airways, making the coughing reflex more susceptible to stimulation, which can lead to gagging.

Treatment for tracheitis and kennel cough typically involves managing the symptoms and providing supportive care. In the case of kennel cough, antibiotics may be prescribed if a bacterial infection is suspected, and cough suppressants or anti-inflammatory medications can help alleviate the cough and related gagging.

5. Cricopharyngeal Dysphagia

Cricopharyngeal dysphagia is a disorder of the swallowing mechanism where there is an obstruction at the cricopharyngeus muscle, which is located in the oropharyngeal region. This can lead to gagging or choking as food or liquid gets stuck in this area during swallowing. Though the exact cause of cricopharyngeal dysplasia is not known, it is believed to be a congenital neuromuscular motility disorder.

Treatment for cricopharyngeal dysphagia involves surgical procedures to reduce the pressure on the cricopharyngeus muscle. This can involve removing tissue, injecting Botox into the muscle, or using a laser to cut away some of the tissue in order to restore normal swallowing.

6. Foreign Material

Gagging in dogs may be caused by foreign material that becomes lodged in their throat, such as small objects, bones, or grass. If the object is too large to be coughed up or swallowed, it can cause gagging as the gag reflex will activate. In some cases, a dog may repeatedly attempt to swallow or lick its lips as it tries to dislodge the object.

When gagging due to foreign material occurs, immediate medical attention is necessary in order to remove the object. The veterinarian may use specialized equipment such as an endoscope or forceps to remove the object and may also recommend a general anesthetic to ensure that the dog remains still during the procedure.

7. Mass such as a Polyp or Cancerous Mass

Masses, such as polyps or cancerous tumors, can form in the throat and cause gagging in dogs due to the obstruction they create. It is important to note that gagging may not be the only symptom of a mass, and other signs such as difficulty eating or drinking, excessive drooling, or coughing may also occur.

The treatment for gagging due to a mass depends on the type of mass present. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the mass, while in other cases radiation therapy or chemotherapy may be recommended. In some instances, supportive care and dietary modifications may be all that is needed to manage gagging in affected dogs.

In conclusion, understanding the various causes of gagging in dogs, such as acid reflux, laryngeal disease, megaesophagus, tracheitis, kennel cough, cricopharyngeal dysphagia, foreign material ingestion, and masses, is important for pet owners to ensure their dog's health and well-being. Early detection and intervention can make a significant difference in managing these conditions and preventing complications. With prompt medical intervention, gagging in dogs can usually be managed and treated successfully. Thanks for reading and if you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out to your veterinarian.