Older dog coughing/hacking

[Snowfire1088]

My Mom has a 12 year old Yorkie/Cairn Terrier mix that has been coughing for several months. Has had him to the vet several times, they gave her medicine and antibiotics for allergies and bronchitis.  A few weeks ago he had the diarrhea, the vet told her to mix pumpkin, hamburger & rice together...that worked, until a few days ago.

She is talking about putting him to sleep.  

Would like to learn more about the dry hacky cough that he has...and why the diarrhea came back.  

If anyone could help, would appreciate it.  Would hate to see Mom have to put her best friend to sleep.

Thank you!

[Margot49]

Check Misfirs post under "coughing" she hip gave some good information

[DoggieMom328]

well, unless Mom cant afford more medical costs, I would suggest trying for a second opinion from a different vet. TWO, it could be food allergy related. If the dog is eating anything that has corn, soy, or wheat in it..it can be an allergy. Alot of cheaper dog foods have corn and soy. both being exceptionally bad for any dog. same goes for looking at any treats that may be given. elliminate these three ingredients and see what happens. you should be about to tell within a week or so. also kibble isnt very good for your pet so change to a more nutritionous food..like canned foods. Also i always recommend giving any dog probitoics (daily), digestive enzymes(daily), fish oil(daily),  with Vit E three times a week.
Not sure if i can post a link here for info...but if so..go to this page and read about food allergies. I think this would be a great test to try before considering any unwanted alternatives. http://www.****.com/special-section-for-food-related-allergies.html.

also to find a better food andto understand ingredients, go to this site. They do dog food reviews: Excellent and well known site to help with.
http://www.****.com/
Hope this will atleast get you in a direction you should try that no one else sounds like they have considered.