If your dog suddenly starts making a loud, hacking cough that sounds a bit like they’re trying to clear their throat, it can be alarming. One common cause of this sound is kennel cough, a highly contagious respiratory illness in dogs. The good news? In most cases, it’s treatable and not serious—especially when caught early.

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What Is Kennel Cough?

Kennel cough (also known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis) is an upper respiratory infection. It’s usually caused by a combination of bacteria and viruses that irritate the dog’s trachea (windpipe) and bronchi.

Dogs most often pick up kennel cough in places where many dogs are around each other, such as:

• Boarding kennels
• Dog daycare
• Grooming facilities
• Dog parks
• Shelters or training classes

Because it spreads through airborne droplets (like coughing or sneezing), even brief contact can be enough to transmit it.

Common Signs and Symptoms

The most recognizable symptom is:

• A dry, forceful “honking” cough

Other symptoms may include:

• Gagging or retching after coughing
• Runny nose or watery eyes
• Sneezing
• Mild lethargy
• Reduced appetite (less common)

Many dogs with kennel cough still act fairly normal and energetic, but puppies, senior dogs, or dogs with weakened immune systems may feel worse.

How Is Kennel Cough Treated?

Treatment depends on the severity of your dog’s symptoms.

Mild Cases

Many mild cases resolve on their own within 1–3 weeks. Your vet may recommend:

• Rest and limited activity
• Avoiding contact with other dogs
• A calm, stress-free environment

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Moderate to Severe Cases

If the cough is persistent, worsening, or your dog seems unwell, your vet may prescribe:

• Antibiotics (if a bacterial infection is suspected)
• Cough suppressants to reduce irritation
• Anti-inflammatory medications

Important: Never give your dog human cough medicine without veterinary guidance—some ingredients can be dangerous for pets.

Home Care Tips

While your dog recovers, you can help by:

• Using a harness instead of a collar to avoid throat pressure
• Running a humidifier to soothe irritated airways
• Encouraging hydration
• Keeping your dog warm and well-rested

If symptoms last longer than a few weeks or worsen, follow up with your vet.

Can Kennel Cough Be Prevented?

Vaccination is the best prevention. The kennel cough vaccine is often required for:

• Boarding facilities
• Daycare centers
• Training programs

While the vaccine doesn’t prevent all cases, it usually reduces severity and duration if your dog does get sick.

When Should I Call the Vet?

Contact your veterinarian if:

• The cough lasts longer than 2–3 weeks
• Your dog becomes lethargic or stops eating
• There’s nasal discharge, fever, or labored breathing
• Your dog is a puppy, a senior, or immunocompromised

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Final Thoughts

Kennel cough can sound scary, but for most dogs, it’s a temporary and manageable illness. With proper care, rest, and veterinary guidance when needed, your pup should be back to their happy, tail-wagging self in no time.

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