Sore Throat in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A sore throat in dogs can be tricky to detect. If your dog is coughing, gagging, or their bark sounds different, they may have an irritated or inflamed throat. While mild inflammation is usually not a major concern, it can sometimes signal a more serious underlying condition. Fortunately, there are both veterinary treatments and holistic home remedies to help your pup recover.

What is Pharyngitis in Dogs?

Pharyngitis is the inflammation of the pharynx (throat), which can lead to discomfort and difficulty swallowing. This condition can be caused by infections, injuries, or even growths.

Common Causes of Pharyngitis and Sore Throats in Dogs

• Bacterial or viral infections

• Kennel cough (a highly contagious respiratory illness)

• Tonsillitis (inflammation of the tonsils)

• Injury from foreign objects (bones, sticks, or other sharp materials)

• Ingestion of irritating substances (chemicals or caustic substances)

• Growths and tumors

• Pulling on the leash, which puts pressure on the throat

Symptoms of a Sore Throat in Dogs

• Coughing

• Hoarse or absent bark

• Reluctance to bark

• Gagging

• Sneezing or reverse sneezing

• Uncomfortable chewing

• Excessive drooling

• Reduced appetite

• Bad breath

• Runny nose

• Fever

• Lethargy or depression

Are Some Dogs More at Risk for a Sore Throat?

Certain factors increase the risk of pharyngitis and sore throats in dogs:

• Dogs that chew sticks or sharp objects are prone to throat injuries.

• Social dogs are more exposed to bacterial and viral infections.

• Older dogs may develop throat tumors or growths.

• Young dogs are more susceptible to tonsillitis.

• Small breeds can develop pharyngeal mucoceles (saliva accumulation in tissues).

• Brachycephalic breeds (e.g., French Bulldogs, Pugs, and Bulldogs) are more susceptible to throat irritation due to their compact airways and breathing difficulties.

• Siberian Huskies and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are more prone to canine eosinophilic granuloma, a rare throat condition.

How Do Vets Diagnose Pharyngitis in Dogs?

Veterinarians will assess your dog’s symptoms and use diagnostic tools such as:

• Physical examination, including a visual inspection of the mouth

• Sedation or anesthesia for a thorough throat examination

• Endoscopic examination (small camera)

• X-rays or advanced imaging (CT scan, MRI)

• Fine needle aspiration (FNA) or biopsy for lumps

• Blood and urine tests to check for systemic conditions

Veterinary Treatment for Sore Throats in Dogs

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include:

• Anti-inflammatory medications and pain relief

• Antibiotics (if caused by a bacterial infection)

• Surgical removal (for foreign objects or growths)

• Chemotherapy or radiation (for tumors)

Holistic Home Remedies for a Dog’s Sore Throat

If your dog's sore throat is mild, natural remedies can help soothe discomfort and promote healing:

1. Manuka Honey – A natural antibacterial and soothing agent. Give 1 teaspoon per 10 lbs of body weight up to 2-3 times a day.

2. Herbal Tea – Lemon, sage, peppermint, and thyme teas can help relieve throat irritation.

3. Fresh Garlic – A natural antimicrobial. Feed fresh, chopped garlic in small amounts (see dosage guidelines for safety).

4. Steam Therapy – Let your dog breathe in warm, steamy air from a humidifier or a warm bath to soothe their throat.

5. Cayenne Pepper – Contains capsaicin, which can block pain receptors. Mix a small pinch with honey and water.

6. Coconut Oil – Has anti-inflammatory properties. Give ½ teaspoon per 10 lbs of body weight daily (avoid in dogs with pancreatitis).

7. Bone Broth – Warm, nourishing, and easy to swallow, bone broth helps with hydration and provides nutrients.

How to Help Your Dog Recover from a Sore Throat

In addition to veterinary treatment or home remedies, you can help your dog by:

• Providing soft, wet food for easier swallowing.

• Offering a tablespoon of warm honey (or more for larger breeds) 3 times daily to coat and soothe the throat (Dog Savvy has tested this remedy, and it works well for mild irritations).

• Using a harness instead of a collar to avoid throat pressure.

• Reducing exercise and keeping them rested.

• Monitoring for any worsening symptoms.

Preventing Sore Throats in Dogs

• Monitor your dog’s chewing habits and avoid sharp objects.

• Avoid interactions with unfamiliar dogs to prevent contagion.

• Keep vaccinations and deworming up to date.

• Use a harness instead of a collar to reduce throat strain.

• Schedule regular veterinary checkups.

When to Seek Veterinary Care

Contact your vet if your dog experiences:

• Worsening symptoms despite home treatments.

• Loss of appetite, vomiting, or lethargy.

• Blood in their saliva or nasal discharge.

• Difficulty breathing.

Most mild sore throats resolve with proper care, but if symptoms persist beyond 24 hours, consult your veterinarian for a thorough evaluation. By combining medical treatment with holistic home remedies, you can help your dog recover fa

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About the Author

Alexandra Bassett is the dog trainer and behavior consultant at Dog Savvy, a virtual dog and puppy training company specializing in game-based dog training and treating problem dog behaviors like separation anxiety, leash reactivity, excessive barking, and aggression.

She is certified as Knowledge Assessed by the Council of Professional Dog Trainers (CPDT-KA) and is available for online dog training sessions via Zoom.

To book an intro session with Alexandra, click here.