Kennel cough in dogs is a highly contagious respiratory infection characterized by a persistent, dry, hacking or "honking" cough, often sounding like something is stuck in their throat. Symptoms usually appear 2–14 days after exposure, often worsening with exercise or excitement, and may include sneezing, runny nose, eye discharge, gagging, and mild lethargy.

Will kennel cough go away 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. 

How to treat 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.

How do you know if your 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 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 Should You REALLY Do When Your Dog Gets Kennel Cough? | Vet Explains

Should I bring my 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.

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

Cough Suppressants: Medications like dextromethorphan or hydrocodone may be prescribed to reduce coughing and allow the dog to rest. Avoid using any human medications or cough syrups, as they can be harmful to dogs.

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 are signs of pneumonia in dogs?

Signs of pneumonia include lethargy, loss of appetite, and a deep cough. Labored breathing, “blowing” of the lips, and bluish mucous membranes may be evident, especially after exercise. Body temperature is moderately increased.

What can I give my dog for coughing and gagging?

Home Remedies for Dog Coughing

• Keep your pet well hydrated by feeding wet food and plenty of water.
• You can also give a teaspoon of honey every 8-12 hours.
• Use a body harness rather than neck collar when walking your dog and keep walks short while they have a cough.

Can I give my dog Benadryl for kennel cough?

Can I Give My Dog Benadryl for Kennel Cough? Yes, but be careful. Benadryl is relatively safe but not well absorbed when given orally in dogs. Contact your veterinarian and follow their instructions.

What is the over-the-counter medicine for kennel cough at Petsmart?

Homeopet Cough relieves dry, wet, or barky coughs and hoarseness frequently associated with boarding in kennels or exposure to other animals. Provide your pet with relief from constant coughing with this highly effective and easy-to-use product.

What kills the kennel cough virus?

Surfaces are one of the primary ways Bordetella bronchiseptica spreads in environments like kennels, veterinary clinics, and homes with pets. To kill the bacteria, use effective disinfectants like bleach (1 part bleach to 9 parts water), hydrogen peroxide, or quaternary ammonium compounds (Quats).

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

Kennel cough in dogs is generally not considered a medical emergency—many cases may resolve without veterinary intervention. They may also recommend a nasal swab to send off for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing or a culture to determine the underlying cause of your dog's infectious respiratory disease.

What are the first signs of kennel cough in my dog?

The classic sign of CIRDC is a frequent, honking cough that comes on suddenly. This cough has also been described as gagging or retching, and it can involve froth that looks like vomit. Coughing generally worsens with activity or exercise, which can irritate the airways.

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.

Where do dogs get kennel cough at home?

Bordetella bronchiseptica is a bacterium that spreads through direct and indirect contact such as licking, nuzzling, or sharing of contaminated objects.

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