Yes, dogs frequently gag, retch, or vomit with kennel cough (Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex), often producing white, foamy phlegm. This occurs because the severe, dry hacking cough causes extreme irritation to the trachea and throat, leading to gagging or vomiting up food or bile.

What does kennel cough vomit look like?

Kennel cough is a respiratory infection common in dogs. It can cause a persistent cough that sometimes leads to vomiting white foam. The foam results from the combination of mucus and saliva expelled during coughing fits.

What are the symptoms of the first signs of kennel cough?

The earliest signs of kennel cough (Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease) usually start with a sudden, persistent, dry, "honking" cough, often described as sounding like your dog is trying to clear their throat or gagging, sometimes with frothy white phlegm. Other early indicators include sneezing, a runny nose or eyes, mild lethargy, and sometimes a low fever or decreased appetite, though the cough is the hallmark symptom, especially after recent contact with other dogs.
 

When should you take your dog to the vet for kennel cough?

Many dogs just need time and supportive care to get over the infection. If the cough seems persistent or worsens, or if your dog develops significant nasal discharge, a course of antibiotics for secondary bacterial infections may be prescribed.

How does a vet confirm kennel cough?

Swabs can be taken to determine the exact virus or bacteria causing kennel cough – although this isn't always useful for treatment. If there are suspected complications, radiographs can be used to assess a dog's condition. If your dog is bright, perky, eating well and playful, you may not need to visit the vet.

Kennel Cough In Dogs

What are the red flags for kennel cough?

The primary sign to look out for is a deep hacking cough, which can sometimes lead to retching, sneezing, snorting, gagging or vomiting. In some cases, you may only notice your dog starting to cough after excitement or exercise and you may also notice a discharge coming from your dog's eyes or nose.

Can a dog get rid of kennel cough on its own?

Yes, mild cases of kennel cough often go away on their own within 1 to 3 weeks, but it's crucial to see a vet for diagnosis and to rule out severe issues like pneumonia, especially for puppies, seniors, or immunocompromised dogs, as complications can arise, and professional care with cough suppressants or antibiotics may be needed for quicker recovery. 

Is kennel cough worse at night?

Usually the coughing is worse at night and in the morning and better during the day when the dog is moving around. Dogs with kennel cough are usually eating, drinking and acting fairly normal other than the coughing.

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.

Do dogs puke from kennel cough?

In some cases, kennel cough can also cause gagging, vomiting, sneezing, a runny nose and eye discharge. Other symptoms of kennel cough may include: Retching or coughing up white foam. Lethargy.

Is it worth going to the vet for kennel cough?

Yes, it's worth going to the vet for kennel cough because it helps rule out more serious conditions like pneumonia, canine influenza, or heart disease, and your vet can provide supportive care, antibiotics if needed (for secondary infections), and cough suppressants, especially for puppies, seniors, or dogs with severe symptoms like lethargy, fever, or difficulty breathing. While many mild cases resolve on their own, veterinary guidance ensures proper management, prevents complications, and confirms the diagnosis.

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. 

How do vets tell if a dog has kennel cough?

The main symptom is a non-productive persistent dry cough that can sound somewhat like a goose honk or as if your pup has something stuck in their throat. Other signs of kennel cough in dogs can include runny nose, sneezing, lack of energy, decreased appetite and mild fever.

Can a dog get over kennel cough without going to the vet?

Most dogs improve on their own, but some need treatment from a vet. Dogs with kennel cough should be kept away from other dogs and public spaces (while they are showing symptoms and for two to three weeks afterwards), as this is where spread is most common.

When should I worry about my dog's cough?

While a mild cough might not be a cause for immediate concern, certain signs should prompt you to seek veterinary care. These include a cough that worsens over time, is accompanied by a change in behavior or appetite, or if your dog shows signs of distress.

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