Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo
  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

    rewards header
    Become a member today!
    Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
    Petco Pay LogoBecome a credit card member today!

    Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
    when you use Petco Pay!

    APPLY NOW
    Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

My dog has a bad cough and spits up foam. What can I do until vet results?

Updated on September 23, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 48 lbs

My dog has a really bad cough it causes him to spit up a bunch of white foam I took him to the vet and they did a test where they too samples from his throat to figure out what it is. The vet recommended Robutusin to give him to help but I think it's just worse. They had given him doxycycline for it before but it didn't really work. Any suggestions for something I can do until the test results come back?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Dr Stafford, BVetMed, MRCVS

Answered By Dr Stafford, BVetMed, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on July 28, 2017

It is likely that Tuck is suffereing from kennel cough complex which is made up of viruses and sometimes bacteria. Unfortunately antibiotics only treat the bacterial side and there is little to do with the virus but wait and try and make the dog more comfortable. You could ring your vet and ask for an antinflammatory and cough bottle for the mean time. You can also try honey and lemon to soothe the dogs throat. Whrn the test results come back you will know better if you are dealing with virus or bacteria.
Vote Icon1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Smart Picks for Smart Questions

Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Share

Styled arrow button