Kennel Cough in Dogs
Dog Health Guides · Coughing & sneezing · Diseases
Kennel Cough in Dogs: Symptoms, Sound, Treatment and How Long It Lasts
If you are reading about kennel cough, your veterinarian is the best first step. This guide explains what owners commonly see and what to do next. It does not diagnose or prescribe.
Kennel cough (infectious tracheobronchitis) is a contagious infection of a dog’s windpipe and airways. It causes a loud, honking cough that often ends in a gag or white foam. Most dogs stay bright and eating, and recover in one to three weeks.
Kennel cough spreads wherever dogs share air, bowls or toys: boarding kennels, daycare, grooming salons, dog parks and shelters. Puppies, seniors, flat-faced breeds and dogs with other illness are more likely to develop pneumonia, so knowing when to worry about kennel cough matters.
Important: See a vet for kennel cough with fever, lethargy, poor appetite, fast or labored breathing, thick green nasal discharge, or a cough that gets worse after a week. Puppies with kennel cough should always be seen by a vet.
See the bigger picture
This guide is part of our coughing & sneezing guide, which covers related causes and when to call the vet.
What Kennel Cough Is
A Mix of Germs
Several bacteria and viruses cause it, most often Bordetella bronchiseptica bacteria and canine parainfluenza virus, sometimes together.
An Airway Infection
The germs irritate the lining of the windpipe and bronchi, which triggers the harsh cough.
Usually Mild
Most healthy adult dogs get better on their own with rest. A few develop pneumonia, which needs treatment.
Kennel Cough Symptoms in Dogs
The Sound
A dry, honking cough, like a goose, that may end in gagging or bringing up white foam. Owners often think something is stuck in the throat.
Triggers
Coughing gets worse with excitement, exercise, drinking, or pressure from a collar.
Mild Cold Signs
Sneezing, a runny nose and watery eyes in some dogs.
Signs It Is More Serious
Fever, low energy, not eating, fast breathing, or thick green discharge can mean pneumonia.
How Kennel Cough Spreads
Through the Air
Coughing and sneezing spread germs between dogs nearby, especially indoors.
Shared Bowls and Toys
Germs survive on bowls, toys, leashes and kennel surfaces.
Before Signs Show
Dogs can spread it for several days before they start coughing and for a week or more after. Keep a coughing dog away from other dogs until your vet says it is safe.
Vaccines Help
Bordetella and parainfluenza vaccines reduce the risk and severity. Many kennels and daycares require them.
What To Do Tonight
Usually mild
Honking cough, but bright, eating and breathing easily: rest, harness, steam, and a vet call if it is not improving within a week.
See a vet
A puppy, fever, lethargy, not eating, fast breathing, or green discharge: possible pneumonia.
Related products
HomeoPet drops listed for a barky cough after boarding or kennels. A cough with fever, fast breathing or poor appetite needs a vet.
View product →Free shipping on orders $75+. Prices and stock update automatically. Products are listed for education; medicines are used only when a veterinarian directs care. This page does not diagnose or prescribe.
Related Dog Health Guides
Back to Dog Health Guides →Kennel Cough in Dogs FAQ
What does kennel cough sound like?
A dry, honking cough like a goose, often ending in a gag. In a puppy it can sound the same, sometimes softer, with sneezing.
How long does kennel cough last?
Most dogs improve in one to three weeks. A cough that lasts longer, or gets worse, needs a vet check.
Is kennel cough deadly?
It is rarely serious in healthy adult dogs, but puppies, seniors and dogs with other illness can develop pneumonia, which can be dangerous without treatment.
What is the best kennel cough treatment at home?
Rest, a harness instead of a collar, steam or a humidifier, water and soft food, and no contact with other dogs. Your vet may prescribe cough medicine or antibiotics if needed.
What is the kennel cough treatment for puppies?
Puppies should see a vet, who will check for pneumonia and decide whether medicine is needed. Keep the puppy warm, rested and away from other dogs.
Is this kennel cough in dogs guide a substitute for a vet visit?
No. It is educational only. Your veterinarian should examine your dog and guide any diagnosis and treatment.
Can I work out a medicine dose from this page?
No. Never work out doses from product strengths, other pets’ medicines or internet pages. The right medicine and dose depend on your dog’s weight, age, breed, health and other medicines, so they must come from your veterinarian.