A mild case of kennel cough in dogs typically presents as a persistent, dry, hacking, or "honking" cough, often sounding like something is stuck in their throat. Dogs with mild cases usually remain active, alert, and eating normally, though they may experience sneezing, gagging, or runny eyes/nose.

Can a dog have a mild case of kennel cough?

Even so, not all dogs with CIRDC will have a cough. Other common signs include sneezing and a runny nose or eyes. In most cases of CIRDC, the illness is mild and dogs fully recover within 7 to 10 days.

Can a mild kennel cough go away on its 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.

Can kennel cough give dogs diarrhea?

Dog with Kennel Cough Developing Vomiting and Bloody Diarrhea Kennel cough can lead to secondary infections and gastrointestinal upset in dogs. Kennel cough is a respiratory infection that can weaken the immune system, making dogs prone to vomiting and diarrhea.

How to treat a mild kennel cough?

Rest and Fluids

Just like a head cold in humans, kennel cough in dogs can be treated best with rest, fluid, and time. Encourage your dog to take it easy for a couple of weeks and drink plenty of water (or clear, unseasoned broth) to stay hydrated. Wet food may help during this time, too.

How to Diagnose KENNEL COUGH at HOME

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.

How do they 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.

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 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 long is a mild kennel cough contagious?

Most dogs are not contagious after 10 to 14 days of being ill, especially if antibiotics are used in bacterial infections (with an exception being canine distemper virus). So it's important to keep a coughing dog away from other dogs for at least 10 to 14 days.

Will a mild kennel cough go away on its own?

Luckily, many dogs have mild cases of kennel cough, and symptoms will likely resolve on their own within 7 to 10 days. However, as with any illness, there are instances of a dog's condition worsening over time and their kennel cough developing to a moderate or severe case.

What are the stages of kennel cough?

Here are the stages of kennel cough:

• Incubation period: 3 to 10 days.
• Acute phase: a few days to several weeks.
• Recovery: 1 to 3 weeks.

Can you walk a dog with a mild kennel cough?

A dog with kennel cough should not go to parks or areas where there are other dogs and pets. Do not take an infected dog for walks with other dogs. Avoid dust, smoke, and rain.

How do you know if kennel cough is viral or bacterial?

Normally, diagnosis is made with a physical exam and a history of exposure. While tests can identify each possible pathogen, unless something serious is suspected (such as distemper), a specific diagnosis is usually not pursued. Most cases of kennel cough are caused by viral illnesses, so antibiotics are not warranted.

How to tell if a dog has fluid in the lungs?

The symptoms of pulmonary edema will vary based upon the underlying cause of the condition, however the most common symptoms in dogs include:

1. Coughing.
2. Difficulty breathing.
3. Crackling noises when taking a breath.
4. Open mouth breathing.
5. Wheezing.

Can a dog have pneumonia without a fever?

If your pet has pneumonia, you may notice signs like coughing, lethargy, lack of appetite or heavy breathing. While it may seem counterintuitive, many pets with pneumonia do not have a fever when examined by their veterinarian.

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