Often, additional treatment for kennel cough is not necessary. Kennel cough in dogs leads to a honking cough that can persist for days to weeks. Kennel cough in dogs is generally not considered a medical emergency—many cases may resolve without veterinary intervention.

How to cure kennel cough at home?

Home remedies for kennel cough

1. Use a harness rather than a collar and lead for walking. ...
2. Provide a quiet, warm space for your dog to rest.
3. Run a humidifier to help moisten your dog's air passages.
4. Wipe any discharge from your dog's eyes and nose with a warm, damp towel.

Can you treat kennel cough without going to the vet?

Most dogs with kennel cough can be treated at home without medication and recover within 1-3 weeks. However, if your dog has a severe cough or appears unwell your vet may recommend: Anti-inflammatories - to reduce airway inflammation and bring down a high temperature.

Can my dog recover from kennel cough on his own?

Kennel cough is rarely severe, and uncomplicated kennel cough will usually go away on its own. However, medications are commonly given to help your dog recover quicker and prevent the condition from worsening. If you suspect your dog has kennel cough, take them to the vet for an examination.

Do I need to go to the vet for kennel cough?

While kennel cough is a common and highly contagious respiratory infection in dogs, it is usually mild and can be treated. If you suspect your dog has kennel cough, contact your family veterinarian or visit a MedVet location for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Kennel Cough In Dogs: Home Treatment or Antibiotics?

What happens if kennel cough is left untreated?

In severe cases, kennel cough can progress beyond a mild respiratory infection, leading to more serious complications such as pneumonia. This typically occurs when the illness goes untreated or when a dog's immune system is already weakened, making it harder for them to fight off the infection.

Do you just let kennel cough run its course?

Kennel Cough Treatment

If your dog has minor symptoms, then you'll have to let the cough run its course. In most cases, the cough will go away on its own, but your vet might prescribe antibiotics as a precaution to it getting worse.

What kills kennel cough bacteria?

To kill the bacteria, use effective disinfectants like bleach (1 part bleach to 9 parts water), hydrogen peroxide, or quaternary ammonium compounds (Quats). Regular cleaning of high-touch areas such as kennels, feeding bowls, countertops, and floors is essential.

What human medicine can I give my dog for kennel cough?

Another commonly used OTC medication is the cough suppressant dextromethorphan (Robitussin DM, Benylin DM). People give this to their dogs to treat kennel cough. It may be helpful at the right dose but giving even a slightly high dose can cause agitation, hallucinations, trembling, vomiting and diarrhea.

Do I need to clean my house if my dog has kennel cough?

Yes, you need to clean and disinfect your house when your dog has kennel cough because the highly contagious bacteria and viruses can survive on surfaces (toys, bowls, bedding, floors, etc.) for days, potentially infecting other dogs; focus on high-contact areas and items, use disinfectants like bleach or veterinary-grade cleaners, and isolate the sick dog until they're well for about a week. 

What is a natural antibiotic for dogs' kennel cough?

Garlic is a powerful antiviral, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory remedy. Feed your dog fresh, organic garlic by chopping the clove and letting it sit for 10 minutes to release its medicinal properties. Then mix it into your dog's food. Feed ⅓ tsp per 10 lbs of body weight.

How to tell if a dog has kennel cough?

Kennel cough (Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex) symptoms usually start with a persistent, dry, "honking" cough, like something's stuck in the throat, often ending in a gag or retch that might bring up foam. Other signs include sneezing, runny nose/eyes, reduced energy, and sometimes a mild fever or decreased appetite. While often mild and self-limiting, severe symptoms like trouble breathing or lethargy require immediate vet care as they can signal pneumonia.

What can I give my dog to cure kennel cough?

Kennel cough treatment often involves rest and supportive care, but vets may prescribe antibiotics (like doxycycline for secondary bacterial infections), cough suppressants (codeine, hydrocodone, butorphanol for severe cases), or anti-inflammatories (Rimadyl) for inflammation, always consult your vet for diagnosis and proper medication to avoid harmful human drugs. Natural remedies like honey (with vet approval) and humidifiers can soothe symptoms, while restricting exercise and avoiding collar pressure help recovery.
 

What not to do when your dog has kennel cough?

It's important to keep your dog at home and keep them away from other dogs for at least two weeks after they've stopped coughing. This should help reduce the spread. However, puppies and senior dogs have a higher risk of complication due to kennel cough because of their immature and compromised immune systems.

Can I still cuddle with my dog with kennel cough?

Yes, you can cuddle your dog with kennel cough for comfort, as it's not easily spread to humans, but you must isolate them from other dogs, wash your hands thoroughly after handling them, and change your clothes to prevent spreading it to other pets. Focus on rest and extra snuggles for your sick pup, but be cautious about transmitting the highly contagious virus between dogs via hands or clothing, notes this video on kennel cough. 

Do dogs feel ill with kennel cough?

Kennel Cough is a very common, highly contagious infection of a dog's airways, often causing a severe, hacking cough that can make dogs quite ill.

How much does a vet charge for kennel cough?

Average cost of a vet visit for kennel cough: $2601

Note: Costs can vary based on the treatment required. Kennel cough, or infectious tracheobronchitis, affects a dog's respiratory system. It can be very contagious and caused by many different bacteria — although, Bordetella bronchiseptica is one of the most common.

How can I tell if my pet is in pain?

Some signs your dog may be in pain include: Change in Activity Level: restlessness, reluctance to move, difficulty getting up, repetitively gets up and lies down, trembling, lying very still, seeks more affection than usual, hides, shows reluctance to jump or use stairs.

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