Kennel cough is diagnosed by veterinarians based on clinical symptoms—especially a dry, honking cough—and a history of exposure to other dogs, such as at groomers or boarding facilities. A key diagnostic step is tracheal palpation, where the vet gently presses the windpipe to trigger a cough.

What are the first symptoms 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.
 

How do doctors test for 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.

Should I take my dog to the vet for kennel cough?

Although kennel cough can sound terrible, most of the time it is not such a serious condition and most dogs will eventually recover without any treatment. So it is always better to take your coughing dog to the vet to have him checked out.

What can be mistaken for kennel cough in dogs?

Canine Influenza: This contagious virus can cause symptoms very similar to kennel cough, such as coughing, nasal discharge, and lethargy—but it often comes with a high fever, more severe respiratory signs, and longer recovery time.

What Should You REALLY Do When Your Dog Gets Kennel Cough? | Vet Explains

Can a dog recover from 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. 

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.

What is the rapid test for kennel cough?

Bordetella bronchiseptica Real-time PCR Test Kit can be used to detect bordetella bronchiseptica nucleic acid in canine nasopharyngeal and throat swabs, which is rapid and accurate.

What are the best home remedies for kennel cough?

10 Ways To Treat Your Dog's Kennel Cough at Home

• Honey.
• Steam.
• Aromatherapy.
• Fluids.
• Wet Food.
• Rest.
• Try a Harness.
• Avoid Smoke.

How much does kennel cough treatment cost?

In general, the kennel cough treatment cost is related to the veterinary examination and medications prescribed. Depending on the dog's size and the medications needed, it usually ranges from $75 - $200. The cost of X-rays and lab work, if required, could be an extra $200 - $500, depending on the tests.

What to feed a dog with kennel cough?

Good food choices are boiled chicken, boiled hamburger, or cooked rice. The food should not be seasoned or cooked with fat. Most dogs recover from kennel cough without treatment in approximately two weeks.

How quickly does kennel cough kick in?

Kennel cough symptoms

Once a dog is exposed, it usually takes two or three days before the dog starts to show symptoms, but it can be up to 10 days. The one exception to this is canine distemper. With distemper, it can take up to four weeks before signs are noted.

Should you bring your dog 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.

How do vets determine if a dog has kennel cough?

Most cases of CIRDC are diagnosed just based on clinical signs and physical exam – we may try to make your dog cough by pushing on his trachea (“windpipe”) gently, as this is a common indicator of kennel cough.

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. 

Do dogs feel ill with kennel cough?

Symptoms of kennel cough

Most dogs develop a hacking cough and stay otherwise quite well, but puppies, older dogs, and poorly dogs can develop more serious symptoms such as: A reduced appetite. Low energy (lethargy) A high temperature (fever).

What breeds are prone to tracheal collapse?

This is common in toy and small breed dogs such as Yorkshire Terriers, Pomeranians and Toy Poodles that are middle-aged or older.

What are the symptoms of the new dog virus going around 2025?

Symptoms of Dog Flu

• Fever.
• Cough.
• Sneezing.
• Lethargy.
• Green or yellow discharge around the nose and eyes.
• Laboured breathing.
• Decreased appetite.

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