Can Dogs Get Kennel Cough?
Most healthy dogs recover in a week or two. A vaccine helps, and rest away from other dogs is key.
Yes, dogs can get kennel cough, a highly contagious respiratory infection that spreads fast wherever dogs mix, such as boarding kennels, daycare, grooming salons and parks. The hallmark is a strong, honking cough. Its early signs can look like a cold or canine flu. Most healthy dogs recover within a week or two, though puppies and older dogs may need extra care.
Symptoms to Watch For
| Sign | What you might notice |
|---|---|
| Honking cough | A loud, dry cough that sounds like a goose |
| Gagging or retching | As if trying to clear the throat |
| Runny nose and sneezing | Mild nasal discharge |
| Mild fever | A slightly raised temperature |
| Still bright | Usually eating and active between coughs |
The hacking cough can also be mistaken for tonsillitis or another throat problem, so a vet check helps pin down the cause.
How to Help at Home
- Rest your dog. Cut back on exercise and let the airways recover.
- Keep them apart. Isolate from other dogs until well past the last cough.
- Add humidity. A steamy bathroom or humidifier can soothe the throat.
- Use a harness. Swap the collar for a harness to avoid pressing the windpipe.
- Watch closely. Make sure your dog keeps eating, drinking and breathing easily.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does kennel cough sound like?
The signature sound is a strong, dry, honking cough, almost like a goose, often followed by a gag or retch as if something is stuck. It tends to worsen with excitement, exercise or pressure on the throat from a collar.
How long does kennel cough last?
Most healthy dogs recover in one to two weeks with rest. The cough can linger a little longer even as the dog feels better. Puppies, senior dogs and those with other health issues may take longer and are more likely to need veterinary treatment.
Is kennel cough contagious to other dogs?
Very. It spreads easily through the air and on shared bowls, toys and surfaces wherever dogs mix, such as kennels, daycare, grooming salons and parks. Keep a coughing dog away from other dogs until at least a week after the cough clears.
Can the kennel cough vaccine prevent it?
It helps. The Bordetella vaccine, available as an injection, nasal spray or oral dose, protects against a common cause of kennel cough and is often required by boarding facilities. Because several germs can cause the illness, vaccinated dogs can still catch a milder form.
⚠️ Emergency? If your dog may have swallowed something toxic or is seriously unwell, contact your vet or a pet poison helpline immediately (in the US, the Pet Poison Helpline is 855-764-7661).
Sources: American Kennel Club (akc.org), VCA Animal Hospitals (vcahospitals.com) and the American Veterinary Medical Association (avma.org). This guide is for general information and is not a substitute for advice from your own veterinarian. See our editorial & review policy.
