Kennel Cough in Dogs: Symptoms, Treatment and Prevention

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

A dry, hacking cough that sounds like something is stuck in the throat is the classic sign of kennel cough.

What it is

Kennel cough is a term for infectious tracheobronchitis, an inflammation of the windpipe and large airways caused by several viruses and bacteria, often in combination. Bordetella bronchiseptica, canine parainfluenza and others are involved. It spreads wherever dogs mingle, including daycare, boarding, shelters, parks and training classes.

Signs

• Dry, honking cough, often triggered by excitement or pulling on a collar
• Retching or gagging with white foam
• Runny nose or mild sneezing
• Reduced energy in some dogs
• Normal appetite in most mild cases

The cough can sound alarming, but most dogs otherwise act well. See dog coughing causes.

How it spreads

Droplets from coughing and sneezing, shared bowls, toys and contaminated surfaces carry infection. Dogs can be contagious before signs appear and for a couple of weeks afterward. Keep sick dogs at home.

When to call the vet

Call promptly if your dog:

• Is a puppy, senior or has heart or lung disease
• Has a fever, lethargy or loss of appetite
• Breathes fast or with effort
• Coughs for more than a couple of weeks
• Produces thick green or yellow nasal discharge
• Has blue or pale gums

These can indicate pneumonia. See pneumonia in dogs.

Treatment

Mild cases often recover with rest. Your vet may recommend cough suppressants, anti-inflammatory medication or antibiotics when bacterial infection is likely. Never give human cough medicine, since some ingredients are unsafe.

Caring for your dog

1. Use a harness instead of a collar to avoid triggering coughing. See best harness for dogs that pull.
2. Rest and avoid vigorous exercise.
3. Keep the air moist, such as with a humidifier or a steamy bathroom, if your vet agrees.
4. Avoid smoke and strong fragrances.
5. Keep dogs apart to prevent spread.
6. Wash bowls, bedding and toys.

Vaccination and prevention

Bordetella vaccines are offered by injection, nasal drops or oral forms, and many boarding and daycare facilities require them. They may reduce severity and spread but do not cover every cause, so some vaccinated dogs still get a cough. See dog core vs non-core vaccines.

Related illnesses

Canine influenza can look similar. See canine influenza in dogs. A vet can help distinguish them if signs are severe.

Common mistakes

• Sending a coughing dog to daycare
• Using a neck collar
• Giving human cough syrup
• Missing signs of pneumonia

Troubleshooting

• Cough lingers after other signs go: check with your vet.
• Cough worsens at night: keep the room humid and call if it changes.
• Another dog at home coughs: isolate and call your vet.

A simple plan

1. Isolate your dog.
2. Switch to a harness.
3. Monitor breathing and appetite.
4. Call your vet if signs worsen.

Real-life examples

A spaniel coughs after boarding and recovers in ten days with rest. A senior dog develops pneumonia and needs antibiotics. A puppy gets the nasal vaccine before daycare and has a milder illness. Context matters.

Returning to normal

Wait until your vet confirms recovery before returning to social settings.

Caring for a coughing dog in a multi-dog home

Keep the sick dog in a separate room if possible, use separate bowls and wash your hands and clothes after handling him. Contagion can continue for around two weeks after signs seem to be gone, so ask your vet when it is safe to mix dogs again. Tell friends, daycares and groomers if your dog has been exposed.

Soothing the throat

Honey is sometimes suggested for human coughs, but ask your vet before giving anything to a dog, especially diabetics and small breeds. A humid room, calm environment and short, gentle walks often help more than anything else while the airway heals.

The takeaway

Kennel cough is usually mild but contagious. Isolate, use a harness and call your vet if breathing or appetite changes.

This article is general educational information, not veterinary advice. Every dog is different. If your dog is unwell, or you are unsure about a symptom, diet change or medication, contact your veterinarian.