Kennel Cough: What To Do After Exposure + Home Care Guide
Symptom Checker
Dry honking cough [mild]
A harsh, goose-like cough that comes in fits.
Gagging or retching [moderate]
Dog appears to try to vomit but nothing comes up, often after coughing.
Clear nasal discharge [mild]
Runny nose with clear fluid.
Fever [emergency]
Temperature over 103°F, warm ears, red gums.
Lethargy [moderate]
Dog is less active, sleeping more than usual.
Loss of appetite [emergency]
Dog not interested in food or water.
Frequently Asked Questions
My dog has kennel cough and is breathing fast - is this an emergency?
That's scary, I know. Rapid breathing at rest can mean pneumonia. Check if their gums are pink or blue. If they're struggling to breathe, go to the emergency vet immediately. Otherwise, monitor closely and call your vet in the morning.
How can I tell if it's kennel cough or something stuck in her throat?
It's tough to tell, but kennel cough has a very specific sound - a dry, honking cough that often ends with a gag. If something was stuck, the cough would be sudden and constant, and your dog might paw at their mouth. With kennel cough, the cough comes in fits and is worse with excitement or pulling on a leash.
How long does kennel cough last in dogs?
Most dogs start coughing 3-10 days after exposure, and the cough can last 1-3 weeks. The worst is usually the first week. If the cough doesn't improve after 2 weeks or gets worse, see your vet to rule out other issues.
Do I need to take my dog to the vet for kennel cough or can I handle it at home?
You can handle mild cases at home if your dog is otherwise healthy and eating normally. But if it's a puppy, senior, or you're just not sure, a vet visit is smart - it's usually $50-100 and they can prescribe cough meds if needed. The risk of leaving it untreated is pneumonia.
Can I catch kennel cough from my dog?
That's a common worry. Kennel cough is very contagious between dogs, but rarely transmits to humans unless you have a weak immune system. Even then, it's usually mild. Wash your hands after handling your dog and you'll be fine.
Will my dog be okay? I'm really worried.
I completely understand. The vast majority of dogs recover fully from kennel cough without any problems. It's like a bad cold for them. Just follow the home care steps and watch for red flags. Your dog will likely be back to normal in a couple of weeks.