It starts with a sudden, sharp sound—a dry, hacking cough that sounds like your dog has something stuck in their throat. If you’ve recently visited a dog park, a boarding facility, or a groomer, that unmistakable “honking” sound is likely Infectious Tracheobronchitis. Knowing what to do if your dog has kennel cough can mean the difference between a quick recovery and a secondary infection like pneumonia.
As a pet owner, hearing your dog struggle to catch their breath or hack persistently is distressing. Kennel cough is highly contagious, but in most healthy adult dogs, it is manageable with the right approach. This guide provides a comprehensive roadmap for navigating the illness, from immediate isolation tactics to advanced veterinary interventions.
Understanding the Basics: What is Kennel Cough?
Kennel cough isn’t caused by a single pathogen. Instead, it’s a complex of bacteria and viruses, most commonly Bordetella bronchiseptica, parainfluenza virus, and canine adenovirus. These pathogens attack the lining of the respiratory tract, causing inflammation and the characteristic cough.
The incubation period is typically 2 to 14 days. This means your dog could have been exposed over a week ago and only now started showing symptoms. Because it is airborne and spreads through shared water bowls or physical contact, it moves through canine populations rapidly.
What To Do If Your Dog Has Kennel Cough: The First 24 Hours
The moment you suspect your dog is ill, your priority shifts to containment and comfort. Here is the immediate protocol to follow:
- Strict Isolation: Stop all social activities. No dog parks, no walks in high-traffic areas, and no visits to the groomer. If you have other dogs at home, try to keep the symptomatic dog in a separate room, though be aware that they may have already been exposed.
- Switch to a Harness: If your dog usually wears a collar, switch to a harness immediately. Any pressure on the trachea (windpipe) will trigger a coughing fit and worsen the inflammation.
- Monitor Temperature: A normal dog temperature is between 101°F and 102.5°F. If your dog has a high fever, it may indicate the condition is progressing toward pneumonia.
While you are monitoring their respiratory health, don’t forget to keep an eye out for other common canine mishaps. For instance, if your dog is scavenging while sick, you should know what to do if your dog ate raisins or what to do if your dog has eaten chocolate, as these toxins can complicate an already weakened immune system.
Expert Home Care Strategies for Comfort
When considering what to do if your dog has kennel cough, focus on environmental modifications that soothe the airways. Much like a human cold, the goal is to reduce irritation while the immune system does its work.
1. Humidity is Your Best Friend
Dry air irritates an already inflamed throat. Use a cool-mist humidifier near your dog’s sleeping area. Alternatively, you can bring your dog into the bathroom while you run a hot shower; the steam helps loosen mucus and soothe the tracheal lining. Aim for 15-minute sessions, two to three times a day.
2. Honey and Warm Liquids
A teaspoon of Manuka honey or locally sourced honey can coat the throat and provide mild antibacterial benefits. You can offer this directly or mix it into a small amount of warm water. Ensure the honey is pure and does not contain Xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.
3. Hydration and Nutrition
Keep your dog hydrated to keep the mucus thin. If they are reluctant to drink, add low-sodium chicken broth to their water. If your dog is also experiencing digestive upset, consult our guide on what to do if your dog has diarrhea to ensure you are managing their overall health holistically.
When to See a Veterinarian
While many cases resolve on their own, you must know when professional intervention is required. If you are wondering what to do if your dog has kennel cough and they fall into any of the following categories, call your vet immediately:
- Age and Health Status: Puppies, senior dogs, and those with pre-existing heart or lung conditions are at high risk for complications.
- Lethargy and Anorexia: If your dog stops eating or seems unusually weak, the infection may be systemic.
- Change in Cough Sound: If the dry hack becomes a “wet” or productive cough, it could indicate fluid in the lungs.
- Difficulty Breathing: Rapid breathing or using abdominal muscles to breathe is a medical emergency.
When you call the vet, inform them ahead of time that you suspect kennel cough. They will likely have you wait in the car to prevent infecting other patients in the waiting room. This is a standard procedure for highly contagious issues, similar to how you would handle a situation if your dog has conjunctivitis.
Medical Treatments and Medications
If the vet determines that your dog needs help, they may prescribe several types of medication. Never administer human medications without explicit veterinary approval. For example, knowing what ibuprofen does to dogs is critical, as it is highly toxic and should never be used for pain or fever in canines.
| Medication Type | Purpose | Common Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Cough Suppressants | Reduces the frequency of coughing to allow the throat to heal. | Hydrocodone, Butorphanol |
| Antibiotics | Targets bacterial components like Bordetella or prevents secondary infections. | Doxycycline, Clavamox |
| Bronchodilators | Opens up the airways to make breathing easier. | Theophylline, Terbutaline |
| Anti-inflammatories | Reduces swelling in the larynx and trachea. | Prednisone (in severe cases) |
Preventing the Spread and Future Infections
Once you know what to do if your dog has kennel cough, your next step is ensuring it doesn’t happen again. Vaccination is the primary line of defense. The Bordetella vaccine is available in injectable, intranasal, and oral forms. While it doesn’t prevent 100% of infections (much like the human flu shot), it significantly reduces the severity of symptoms.
Sanitation is also key. The viruses can live on surfaces for 48 hours. Wash all bedding, bowls, and toys in hot, soapy water or a diluted bleach solution (1 part bleach to 32 parts water). If your dog was recently at a facility, notify the manager so they can take precautions for other pets.
Common Mistakes Owners Make
Even well-meaning owners can make errors when deciding what to do if your dog has kennel cough. Avoid these pitfalls:
- Exercising the Dog: Physical exertion increases the heart rate and respiratory rate, which triggers coughing fits. Forced rest is mandatory for at least 7-10 days.
- Stopping Antibiotics Early: If your vet prescribes antibiotics, finish the entire course even if the cough disappears. Stopping early can lead to antibiotic resistance.
- Using Over-the-Counter Cold Meds: Many human cough syrups contain ingredients like Xylitol or Acetaminophen that are deadly to dogs.
- Ignoring Secondary Symptoms: Don’t assume a runny nose or eye discharge is just part of the cough. It could be a sign of a more serious respiratory complex or even pink eye.
Advanced Recovery Strategies
For dogs with stubborn cases, consider these expert-level tips:
Coupage: This is a physical therapy technique where you gently cup your hands and pat the sides of your dog’s chest. This vibration helps break up congestion in the lungs. Ask your vet to demonstrate the proper pressure and rhythm.
Probiotics: Since many dogs with kennel cough are put on antibiotics, their gut health can suffer. Adding a canine-specific probiotic can help maintain their immune system during recovery. This is especially helpful if your dog is prone to digestive issues, as discussed in our guide on managing dog diarrhea.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does kennel cough last?
Most cases resolve within 10 to 20 days. However, older dogs or those with weakened immune systems may take up to three weeks or longer to fully recover.
Can humans catch kennel cough?
While extremely rare, Bordetella bronchiseptica can occasionally infect humans with severely compromised immune systems. For the average healthy person, there is no risk.
Can my dog get kennel cough if they are vaccinated?
Yes. Because there are many different strains and causes of the cough, the vaccine cannot cover every possibility. However, vaccinated dogs usually experience much milder symptoms.
What if my dog is choking instead of coughing?
It can be hard to tell the difference. If your dog is pawing at their mouth, cannot swallow, or has blue-tinged gums, they may have an obstruction. If you suspect they swallowed something, refer to our guide on what to do if your dog swallows a toy.
Conclusion: Patience and Vigilance
Knowing what to do if your dog has kennel cough involves a balance of proactive home care and professional medical advice. By isolating your pet, using a harness, providing humidity, and monitoring for signs of pneumonia, you provide the best environment for healing.
Remember that your dog’s immune system is working hard. Keep their environment stress-free and avoid any irritants like smoke or strong perfumes. Whether you are dealing with a respiratory infection, a tick bite, or an accidental ingestion of onions, being an informed advocate for your pet is the most important role you play.
If your dog’s cough does not improve within a week, or if they seem to be getting worse, do not hesitate to contact your veterinarian. Early intervention is the key to preventing long-term respiratory damage and ensuring your pup gets back to their happy, energetic self.
