My dog is 15+. He has starting what sounds like licking, but seems to be actually dealing with excess phlegm. When he drinks water, it seems like after several licks, he gasps, and then continues licking water. I haven't taken him to vet yet as it's very difficult because of his arthritis. Is there something I can do to help him now?

I have a 13 1/2 year old with the same problem. I've been told, by our vet, that it's because of his age. He breaths heavier and gasps, will actually dry heave trying to get rid of phlegm and he also has arthritis.

At 15 years of age your dog is an old man, it's common for people to start having problems with every day things, and it's also common with dogs. This is the hard part of having a dog, watching them start to get old and have problems.

By all means talk to your vet, it could be something other than just old age, and if there is relief for him then it's important to find it.

I feel for you, I know what you're going through, if you want to talk I'm here.

Good luck and keep us posted. :)

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Originally Posted by Altenweg

I have a 13 1/2 year old with the same problem. I've been told, by our vet, that it's because of his age. He breaths heavier and gasps, will actually dry heave trying to get rid of phlegm and he also has arthritis.

At 15 years of age your dog is an old man, it's common for people to start having problems with every day things, and it's also common with dogs. This is the hard part of having a dog, watching them start to get old and have problems.

By all means talk to your vet, it could be something other than just old age, and if there is relief for him then it's important to find it.

I feel for you, I know what you're going through, if you want to talk I'm here.

Good luck and keep us posted. :)

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I don't know if this could be the case but when my GSD got older he developed inverse breathing. Sounded like he was choking but it was actually post nasal drip !