Kennel Cough in Dogs: Signs, Treatment & Prevention

What Is Kennel Cough?

Kennel cough (part of “Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex”) is a highly contagious respiratory infection in dogs. It causes inflammation of the voice box and windpipe, producing the classic cough that can sound almost like a goose honk. The cough may occur in quick succession or spasms, and may also result in a terminal retch (which may or may not bring up discharge/phlegm). It spreads easily wherever dogs have close contact — boarding, dog parks, groomers, and day care — through airborne droplets, shared water bowls, or nose-to-nose contact.

Common signs	Honking/hacking cough (spasms), runny nose, sneezing, mild lethargy
Timing	Random, often worse after exercise or excitement, or at night
Who is affected	All ages. Common in younger dogs / puppies (immature immune systems)

What To Expect If Your Dog Has Kennel Cough?

In most healthy adult dogs, kennel cough is uncomplicated, ie: mild and resolves on its own within 1 to 3 weeks without medication. It is akin to a common cold — uncomfortable, but generally not too risky. Your dog will likely still be active and have a normal appetite. On a case-by-case basis, we might prescribe a cough suppressant, antibiotics (if a bacterial cause is suspected), or other supportive therapy if your dog seems especially unwell.

If there is excessive discharge (from the nose or eyes), or if your dog is very unwell, we might suspect something more complicated like pneumonia, and that is also when further diagnostics such as chest x-rays or blood tests may be recommended.

When To Contact Your Vet

Contact your vet if your dog develops a fever, stops eating, seems very tired/weak/lethargic, or if the cough lasts more than 2 weeks. Puppies, senior dogs, or dogs with other coexisting infections might require closer monitoring. For severe signs like difficulty breathing or collapse, we recommend you go immediately to your nearest 24-hour vet emergency hospital or clinic.

At-Home Care Ideas

• Rest and limit exercise while symptoms are present.

• Use a harness instead of a collar to reduce throat pressure.

• Keep your dog away from other dogs until fully recovered — usually at least 2 weeks after symptoms resolve.

• Switch on a humidifier to soothe your dog’s airway.

• Consider softer foods as they might have a sore throat.

Prevention

A vaccine is available for common kennel cough pathogens eg: Bordetella bronchiseptica but it is important to note that it does not offer 100% protection. Ask your vet if it is suitable for your dog. Please note vaccinations are typically administered when dogs are well.

Willow Vet Clinic contact
Phone: 6970 5686
E-mail: hello@willowvets.sg (non-urgent enquiries only)

DISCLAIMER: THIS HANDOUT IS MEANT FOR GENERAL EDUCATION PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT A SUBSTITUTE FOR MEDICAL ADVICE.