Charlie's been coughing or gassy for air. Like he got something like a fur ball

It sounds like you're describing Charlie making a hacking, gagging, or retching motion — almost like he's trying to bring something up. That can definitely be alarming to watch, especially with a young pup!

First, a small reassurance: dogs don't get hairballs the way cats do, so that's unlikely to be what's happening here. But that kind of coughing, gagging, or "gasping for air" motion in a 4-month-old puppy is worth paying attention to, because there are a few things that can cause it.

Some common possibilities in puppies this age include:

• Kennel cough — a contagious respiratory infection that causes a honking or hacking cough, sometimes followed by gagging. It's very common in young dogs, especially those who've been around other dogs (like at a shelter, breeder, or dog park).
• Something stuck in the throat — puppies explore everything with their mouths, and small objects can sometimes get partially lodged.
• Reverse sneezing — this is a funny-sounding snorting or gasping episode that looks alarming but is usually harmless. It often sounds like the dog is struggling to breathe but passes quickly on its own.
• Parasites — some intestinal worms can actually affect the lungs during part of their life cycle, causing coughing in young puppies.
• Respiratory infection — puppies have developing immune systems and can pick up infections more easily than adult dogs.

While you're watching him at home, notice:

• How often is it happening — once in a while, or repeatedly throughout the day?
• Does it pass quickly (under a minute) or does he seem distressed for longer?
• Is he eating, drinking, and playing normally otherwise?
• Any nasal discharge, eye discharge, or lethargy?
• Any chance he could have gotten into something small he might have swallowed?

If the episodes are brief and he bounces right back to his normal puppy self, that's a better sign. If he seems distressed, is struggling to breathe, or it's happening frequently, that needs prompt attention.

When to see your vet:

Given that Charlie is only 4 months old — still a puppy with a developing immune system — I'd recommend calling your vet soon, ideally within the next day or two, even if he seems okay otherwise. Puppies can go downhill faster than adult dogs, and a vet can check for kennel cough, parasites, or anything stuck in his airway.

Go to an emergency vet right away if:
- He seems to be struggling to breathe or his gums look pale, blue, or white
- He's gagging continuously and can't settle
- He becomes suddenly lethargic or collapses
- You think he may have swallowed something

You're doing the right thing by paying close attention — trust your gut on this one!